Du to Launch eSIM Service in UAE
du eSlM is a new and innovative way to connect to mobile networks. eSIM stands for embedded SIM, and it is a digital SIM card that is embedded in your device. This means that you no longer need to use a physical SIM card to connect to your mobile network. du esim
du eSIM offers a number of benefits over traditional physical SIM cards. It is more convenient, as you can activate and manage your eSIM online without having to visit a store. It is also more secure, as eSIMs cannot be lost or stolen. Additionally, eSIMs can be used with multiple mobile networks, giving you more flexibility and choice.
How does an eSIM work?
eSIMs work in a similar way to traditional physical SIM cards. They store your mobile network information, such as your phone number, carrier settings, and mobile data plan. However, instead of being a physical card, an eSIM is a digital chip that is embedded in your device.
To activate an eSIM, you will need to download and install a mobile profile from your mobile network provider. This profile will contain all of the information that your device needs to connect to the network.
Once your eSIM is activated, you can use it just like a traditional physical SIM card. You can make and receive calls and text messages, and you can access your mobile data plan.
Benefits of using an eSIM
There are a number of benefits to using an eSIM, including:
- Convenience:Â You can activate and manage your eSIM online without having to visit a store.
- Security:Â eSIMs cannot be lost or stolen.
- Flexibility:Â eSIMs can be used with multiple mobile networks.
- Environmental benefits: eSIMs reduce the need for plastic SIM cards, which are better for the environment.
du eSIM plans and pricing
du offers a variety of eSIM plans, both postpaid and prepaid. Postpaid plans start at AED 100 per month and include a variety of data, voice, and SMS allowances. Prepaid plans start at AED 25 and include a variety of data bundles.
What are the charges for activating an eSIM?
You’ll have to pay charges according to the below:
| Prepaid Plan (may vary based on plans) | AED 55 + 5% VAT (per SIM upon activation) |
| Postpaid Plan (may vary based on plans) | AED 125 + 5% VAT (per SIM upon activation) |
| Corporate Plans | AED 55 + 5% VAT (per SIM upon activation) |
| From physical SIM to eSIM | AED 20 + 5% VAT (per SIM upon change) |
| Moving eSIM from phone to phone | AED 20 + 5% VAT (per SIM upon change) |
| Apple Watch eSIM (one number with Multi-SIM) | AED 25 + 5% VAT (monthly charges) |
du is running a promotion on the du App for the next 6 months. During this time, you can convert your physical SIM to an eSIM or transfer your eSIM from one phone to another (iOS and Android only) at no cost. This means the usual AED 20 + 5% VAT fee will not be charged. To find out more about the latest du eSIM plans and pricing, please visit the du website.
To activate a new mobile number:
- 1. Visit any du store or head to shop.du.ae.
- 2. Buy any mobile plan with the eSIM option.
- 3. You’ll then receive a printed QR code.
- 4. Go to settings and tap ‘Add eSIM’.
- 5. Scan the QR code you received.
- 6. The eSIM will be added to your device, and you can start using the mobile number.
- 7. If you are using a corporate number, then contact your corporate authorized signatory to get an eSIM.
How to activate an eSIM on du
To convert your physical SIM or transfer your eSIM:
- 1. Log into the du app on the device you wish to activate the eSIM.
- 2. Tap the menu beside the mobile number.
- 3. Tap on ‘Manage your SIM’.
- 4. Pick the SIM you want to convert or transfer.
- 5. Tap ‘Convert to eSIM’ or ‘Activate eSIM on this device’ to transfer.
- 6. Verify your request using UAE PASS.
- 7. Once you’ve authenticated, the eSIM will be added.
- 8. If you are using a corporate number, then contact your corporate authorized signatory to get an eSIM.
To activate an Apple Watch eSIM:
- 1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- 2. Start pairing your Apple Watch with your iPhone.
- 3. Select ‘Cellular Setup’.
- 4. Already paired? Go to the Watch app and select ‘Cellular’.
- 5. Login using your du app’s credentials.
- 6. Accept the terms and conditions.
- 7. Click on ‘Subscribe’.
- 8. You will receive an SMS once the eSIM activation is complete.
- 9. If you are using a corporate number, then contact your corporate authorized signatory to get an eSIM.
Once your eSIM is activated, you will be able to use it just like a traditional physical SIM card.
Using an eSIM with du
Once your eSIM is activated, you can use it just like a traditional physical SIM card. You can make and receive calls and text messages, and you can access your mobile data plan.
To manage your eSIM, you can use the du app. You can use the app to view your eSIM plan details, check your balance, and top up your prepaid account.
The other Emirati operator, Etisalat, also offers eSIM.
If you are travelling to the UAE, here are some indicative prepaid eSIM card prices for the UAE:
