Power & Connectivity (SIM)
Connectivity may vary by region and season.
Voltage & Plug Types
Electrical standards and outlet shapes
The UAE uses 220–240V at 50Hz, with the UK-style three-pin plug (Type G) as standard. Bring a UK/Type G adapter, or a universal one. Most phone and laptop chargers handle 220–240V — check the label. Many hotels also have some universal sockets, but do not rely on it.
- Voltage
- 220–240V / 50Hz
- Plug
- Type G (UK-style)
- Tip
- Bring an adapter
- Standard plug is UK-style three-pin (Type G)
Buying a SIM Card
Where to buy, costs, and activation process
The main networks are Etisalat (e&) and du, with tourist SIM/data packs sold at the airport and in shops. You need your passport to register the SIM. Coverage is excellent across cities, malls, the metro and even the desert on tours. A prepaid tourist plan is handy for maps and messaging apps.
- Networks
- Etisalat (e&), du
- Registration
- Passport needed
- Coverage
- Excellent
- You need your passport to register a SIM
eSIM & Mobile Wi-Fi
eSIM availability and portable Wi-Fi rental
If your phone supports eSIM, a travel eSIM lets you get online on arrival without buying a physical SIM. Buy and install it before departure while you have Wi-Fi. Check your phone is eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Note that some voice-over-internet calling apps have historically faced restrictions in the UAE, though data browsing and messaging generally work.
- Convenience
- Online on arrival
- Setup
- Install before flying
- Note
- Some VoIP limited
- Install your travel eSIM before departure over Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Availability
Public Wi-Fi coverage and security
Wi-Fi is fast and widely available in hotels, malls, cafés and many public areas; some cities offer free public Wi-Fi zones. Speeds are generally very good. As anywhere, avoid sensitive logins on open networks or use a VPN. Keep in mind that some internet-calling apps may be restricted, so plan how you will make calls home.
- Availability
- Widespread, fast
- Public zones
- In some cities
- Security
- VPN on open Wi-Fi
- Plan how you will call home, as some VoIP may be limited
Internet Restrictions & VPN
Blocked services and VPN recommendations
Most everyday browsing, maps, social media and messaging work normally, but the UAE regulates internet content and some voice/video calling over apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime or Messenger has historically been restricted. Availability can change, so check the current situation before you rely on a specific app for calls. Some operators offer approved calling apps.
- Browsing
- Works normally
- App calls
- May be restricted
- Check
- Current situation
- Confirm current app-calling availability before you rely on it
Useful Local Apps
Must-have apps for transport, translation, and maps
Handy apps include Careem and Uber (rides), Google Maps, RTA/S'hail for Dubai metro and transport, a translation app, and your hotel or attraction booking apps. Careem is very popular locally and also does food and other services. Download maps offline and set up any calling backup before you arrive.
- Rides
- Careem, Uber
- Transport
- RTA / S'hail
- Maps
- Google Maps
- Careem is very popular locally for rides and more
International Calls
How to make international calls and alternatives
The country code is +971. To call abroad from the UAE dial 00 then the country code. Emergency numbers are 999 (police), 998 (ambulance) and 997 (fire). Because some internet-calling apps may be restricted, a local SIM/eSIM with call minutes, or an operator-approved calling app, is a reliable way to make calls. Save key numbers offline.
- Country code
- +971
- Emergency
- 999 / 998 / 997
- Calls
- SIM minutes reliable
- A local SIM with minutes is a reliable way to call