HelloRoam provides an eSIM for UAE, with plans from ₹379.75 per day. Your e SIM taps into local 4G/5G networks as soon as you land, ready to use. Scan the QR code before departure, and your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number stays active for calls. Your e-sim manages travel data at local rates, with no hidden charges from HelloRoam. Setup takes under two minutes, backed by 24/7 WhatsApp support.
- carrier networks
212+- 5G support
5G- QR activation
under 2 minutes
Last updated
Your UAE tourist sim Plan with Nationwide Coverage
Affordable eSIM for UAE, starting from ₹379.75. Local 4G LTE and 5G data on top carrier networks in UAE. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including OnePlus, Samsung, and iPhone. Airport SIM counters charge inflated rates and have long queues at arrivals. An eSIM for UAE plan from HelloRoam starts at ₹379.75 on Du 5G networks across UAE. Indian travellers activate via QR code before departure and land with data already live. Every plan is fully prepaid with no hidden charges, no contract, and no Airtel or Jio roaming fees.
UAE eSIM with fast 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for the UAE starting from ₹379.75. Stay connected on Etisalat (e&) 5G in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Scan a QR code before you board and activate the moment you land.
- Plans start at ₹379.75 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from Du
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- UAE coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- ₹379.75
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in UAE
Follow these steps to start using an eSIM on your iPhone or Android before travelling abroad.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Pick a data plan for your destination and complete your purchase online.
2Scan the QR code from your email
Scan the QR code from your confirmation email to install your eSIM.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM installs in minutes and activates on arrival at your destination.
4Manage everything from the HelloRoam app
Monitor data usage, top up when needed, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we have got you covered!
Plans can change, and that is perfectly fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a full refund for an unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase. Once activated, the eSIM is not refundable.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam UAE eSIM vs Jio, Airtel and Vi Roaming
When you compare a UAE eSIM against a travel SIM card or carrier roaming pack, HelloRoam delivers better value. Jio international roaming costs ₹575 per day. Airtel World Roaming costs ₹596 per day. Vi’s ₹2,999 pack covers just 24 days in select countries. For Indian travellers looking for the most affordable eSIM option, HelloRoam plans start from ₹379.75 with a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, zero activation fees, and no hidden charges. No airport SIM counter. No carrier contract.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Jio / Airtel roaming | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| Zero activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery by email | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium UAE carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Is a prepaid SIM card UAE better than an eSIM for Indian visitors travelling to Dubai?
An eSIM for United Arab Emirates from HelloRoam is ready before you even board your Air India or IndiGo flight from Delhi or Mumbai. Activate by QR code, land at DXB, and your data is running on Du 5G from ₹379.75 the moment you step out of the terminal. No counter queues, no hidden charges, and no Airtel or Jio roaming fees on any plan.
A travel eSIM UAE from HelloRoam saves you the hassle of registration at a du or Etisalat counter at DXB or AUH. Indian travellers visiting Dubai for leisure, business, or the Indian diaspora community get a QR code by email within seconds and data that works from the moment they land.
A travel sim UAE from a local shop involves finding a store and showing your passport for registration. HelloRoam handles everything online before departure from India. Plans run on Du 5G across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah from ₹379.75 with no contract and no hidden fees.
An eSIM card UAE from HelloRoam covers all seven emirates on Du 5G from ₹379.75. Activate before departure from India and arrive connected. No counter queues, no contract, and a 180-day money-back guarantee on unactivated eSIMs on every plan.
Why Indian Travellers Choose HelloRoam for Mobile Data in UAE
24/7 WhatsApp and live chat support
Our support team is available 24/7 on WhatsApp, live chat, and email. A real person responds in under 2 minutes. No automated bots, no long hold queues, no waiting on the Jio or Airtel helpline for an agent. Whether you are troubleshooting a data connection in a busy Dubai market or need a top-up reminder mid-trip, our agents handle it instantly so your travel stays uninterrupted.
The best SIM card for UAE travel
Buy your plan before departure, scan the QR code, and get local 4G LTE or 5G data the moment you land in UAE. No roaming charges from Jio, Airtel, or Vi, and no SIM swap needed. Works on any eSIM compatible phone. Indian travellers consistently rate it among the best prepaid mobile data options available for international trips, offering local network speeds at a fraction of carrier roaming costs.
Keep your Jio or Airtel number active
Use HelloRoam for travel data in UAE and keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active for calls and messages back home. Both lines run at the same time on one phone at no extra cost. This dual SIM setup is especially useful for receiving OTPs, banking alerts, and family calls on your Indian number while your travel eSIM handles maps, WhatsApp video, and streaming abroad.
212+ carrier networks including UAE
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone selects the strongest 4G/5G or 5G signal on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. No manual network selection required. This automatic carrier switching means you get consistent mobile data whether you are at an international airport, a city hotel, or a highway rest stop far from the city centre.
Low-data alerts so you never run out
HelloRoam sends a notification when you reach 80% of your UAE data allowance. You can top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or scanning a new QR code. No surprise data cut-offs mid-trip. This prepaid recharge system works the same way as topping up a Jio or Airtel prepaid account at home, just faster and with no store visit needed.
Local 4G/5G network speeds
Your UAE eSIM connects to local 4G LTE and 5G networks from the moment you land. Tourist areas, airports, and city centres all get the same fast, reliable speeds. HelloRoam picks the strongest available signal automatically so maps, WhatsApp video calls, and streaming work without manual setup. Unlimited data plans are available for longer stays. Business travellers benefit from consistent high-speed connectivity for video conferences and cloud applications, removing the risk of slow hotel Wi-Fi on critical workdays abroad.
Regional and global plans in one purchase
Planning to visit Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, the UK, or multiple countries in one trip? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East in a single purchase across 185+ countries. A single regional plan removes the need to buy a new eSIM at each border crossing, which makes multi-country itineraries far simpler and significantly cheaper than purchasing individual local SIM cards at every airport.
Hotspot sharing in UAE, no extra charge
Share your UAE eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via your phone hotspot at no additional charge. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, OnePlus, and Xiaomi flagships. For families travelling together, one person with a larger data plan can share the connection with other devices, making it an economical option for group trips where everyone stays connected without each buying a separate plan.
Best SIM Card Prices for UAE
HelloRoam, the best SIM card UAE. Compare plans and save versus Jio, Airtel, and Vi roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | ₹548.21 |
| 3 days | ₹1,562.77 |
| 7 days | ₹3,376.81 |
| 15 days | ₹6,578.49 |
| 22 days | ₹8,924.55 |
| 30 days | ₹11,183.05 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for UAE
Indian travellers searching for the best eSIM for UAE consistently rate HelloRoam for its industry-leading refund policy, zero activation fees, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other providers on the features that matter most when travelling abroad from India.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| ₹0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium UAE carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM? How a Travel eSIM Works in UAE
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your mobile phone. There is no plastic chip and no SIM tray to open. Scan a QR code to activate your eSIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for UAE travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number active in dual SIM mode while HelloRoam handles your international data. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for the UAE
The UAE has some of the best mobile infrastructure in the Gulf region. Etisalat (e&) and du both run 5G networks across the Emirates, and HelloRoam connects on Etisalat (e&) in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman.
Indian travellers visiting family or colleagues in the Gulf will find coverage excellent in malls, metro stations, and residential areas alike. A HelloRoam eSIM connects you the moment your flight lands at Dubai International or Abu Dhabi Airport, keeping you online at every stop.
- HelloRoam connects to Du 5G in UAE
- 5G coverage across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman
- Connect on Etisalat (e&) 5G network
- Activate via QR code before departure from India
eSIM Travel Tips for UAE
Install your eSIM before leaving India
Set up your HelloRoam eSIM at home in India before heading to the airport. Enable data when you touch down at Dubai International and you are online straight away. No queuing at airport telecom counters for a local SIM.
Keep your Indian number active for family calls
On a dual SIM phone, keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active for incoming calls from family back home. Set your HelloRoam eSIM as the data line. This way you stay reachable on your Indian number without paying heavy international roaming charges.
VoIP calling has restrictions in the UAE
WhatsApp calls, FaceTime Audio, and similar VoIP apps are restricted in the UAE. Many Indian residents and visitors use approved calling apps or international calling cards for voice calls. Check which apps work before you travel.
Coverage is strong across all seven emirates
Whether you are visiting Dubai for work, Abu Dhabi for tourism, or Sharjah for a budget stay, 5G signal is widely available. Remote desert areas near the Oman border have weaker signal, so download offline maps if you plan a desert safari outside city limits.
Monitor data usage with the HelloRoam app
The HelloRoam app shows your real-time data balance with alerts at 80% and 95% usage. Top up inside the app without reinstalling your eSIM if you run out mid-trip.
Mobile networks in the UAE: what Indian travellers need to know
The UAE has two main carriers: Etisalat (now branded e&) and du. HelloRoam connects on the Etisalat 5G network, which covers all major urban areas. Etisalat has the widest network footprint and consistently high speeds in shopping malls, business districts, and airports. Your eSIM picks the strongest signal automatically.
- Du
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs Jio/Airtel roaming vs local UAE SIM
Here is a straight comparison of data options for Indian travellers heading to the UAE.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Local UAE SIM (du or Etisalat) | Jio/Airtel/Vi international roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From ₹609.12 total | ₹1,332.45–₹2,569.72 total | ₹951.75–₹1,427.62/day |
| Details | Plans start at ₹379.75. Buy online before you fly, scan the QR code, and land in Dubai already connected. No airport queues, no paperwork, no leftover SIM to throw away. | Available at Dubai Airport but requires ID verification and takes time to set up. Prepaid tourist SIMs start around AED 50 to 100 (₹1,150 to ₹2,300). Unused credit is forfeited when the SIM expires. | Jio international roaming packs for the UAE start around ₹575 for 1 GB over 3 days. Airtel packs are similar. A 10-day trip with daily data use can cost ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 in roaming fees. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit the UAE from India
October to March is the most comfortable period, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Diwali and December holidays see a large number of Indian families travelling to Dubai for shopping and tourism. Summers (May to September) are extremely hot, reaching 45°C, but hotels and indoor attractions are heavily air-conditioned. Ramadan is a quieter period with many restaurants closed during the day.
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Top Destinations in UAE
Abu Dhabi
HelloRoam brings fast mobile data to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates with easy eSIM setup.
Etisalat runs 5G across Abu Dhabi. Get your eSIM active before landing at Abu Dhabi International.
Dubai
HelloRoam connects travelers in Dubai with reliable data across United Arab Emirates. No SIM card swap needed.
Dubai Metro stations all have strong Etisalat 5G. Activate before landing at Dubai International to skip airport queues.
Ajman
HelloRoam offers data plans for Ajman travelers, with coverage across United Arab Emirates.
Ajman shares the UAE Etisalat 5G network. Coverage is consistent from the corniche to the free zone.
Al Ain City
Arrive in Al Ain ready to connect. HelloRoam covers all of United Arab Emirates with fast data.
Al Ain is inland but Etisalat 5G reaches here reliably. Coverage holds through the oasis and border zone.
Sharjah
HelloRoam makes it easy to stay online in Sharjah with data plans for United Arab Emirates.
Sharjah is minutes from Dubai on the same Etisalat 5G grid. No need to adjust settings when crossing the border.
Showing slide 1 of 5
Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Last updated
UAE eSIM Questions Answered
How much does a UAE tourist SIM card cost for Indian travellers?
An e SIM UAE plan runs on Du 5G networks from ₹379.75 across UAE. HelloRoam delivers the QR code to your email within seconds and activation takes two minutes. No hidden charges, no contract, and no Airtel or Jio roaming fees.
Which eSIM for UAE plan gives Indian tourists visiting Dubai the best value?
An e-sim UAE plan connects to Du 5G networks across UAE. HelloRoam activates every plan by QR in under two minutes on any compatible mobile. No hidden charges, no Airtel or Jio roaming fees, and a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
Which eSIM is best for UAE travel from India?
HelloRoam is a top-rated eSIM for UAE for travellers departing from India. Plans start from ₹379.75, which is far below Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day or Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day. Before your flight from Delhi IGI (IGIA), Mumbai CSIA (BOM), Bengaluru Kempegowda (BLR), Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi (HYD), Chennai (MAA), or Kochi (COK) airport, scan a QR code in your phone settings and the eSIM is ready the moment you land. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. No carrier contract, no hidden charges, no bill shock.
How much does a UAE eSIM cost compared to Jio and Airtel roaming?
eSIM plans for UAE start from ₹379.75. Compare that with Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day, Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day, or Vi's ₹2,999 pack for just 24 days in select countries. For a 7-day trip, Jio roaming costs around ₹4,025 and Airtel costs around ₹4,172. A HelloRoam plan for the same trip typically costs a fraction of that, with no daily billing and no BSNL international rates either. Pay by UPI, Google Pay, debit card, or credit card.
Which networks does a eSIM use in UAE?
eSIM in UAE connects to local 4G/5G carrier networks. Your phone selects the strongest available signal automatically on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. No manual APN setup required. HelloRoam partners with hundreds of carrier networks across 185+ countries. For travellers used to Jio or Airtel coverage in India, the local network speeds in UAE are often comparable or better in urban areas.
How do I buy a UAE eSIM before flying from India?
Getting a UAE eSIM before your flight from India takes three steps. First, visit helloroam.com, search UAE, pick a plan, and pay by UPI, Google Pay, or card. Second, open your confirmation email and scan the QR code in your phone settings under Add eSIM. Third, your eSIM installs in under 2 minutes and activates automatically when you land. No airport kiosk, no SIM counter at Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA, no waiting in a queue after a long flight.
Does iPhone work with a UAE eSIM for Indian travellers?
Yes. iPhone XS and all newer models work with eSIM in UAE. Go to Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the QR code from your HelloRoam email. Your Jio or Airtel number stays active through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles your travel data in UAE. No carrier unlocking is needed for iPhones purchased directly from Apple in India. For iPhones bought on a carrier plan, do check with Jio or Airtel for unlock eligibility.
What is the best eSIM for the UAE?
HelloRoam is a top eSIM choice for the UAE, connecting on Etisalat 5G across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Plans start at ₹379.75 (around ₹535). Buy online, scan a QR code at home in India, and arrive in Dubai already connected. No physical SIM needed.
Does a HelloRoam eSIM work in Dubai?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM works in Dubai and across all seven UAE emirates on the Etisalat 5G network. Buy your plan before leaving India, install it via QR code, and activate when you land at Dubai International Airport.
Which network does HelloRoam use in the UAE?
HelloRoam eSIM for the UAE connects on the Etisalat (e&) 5G network, which covers Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. Your phone connects to the best available signal automatically. Coverage includes tourist attractions, airports, and all city centres.
How do I activate a UAE eSIM from India?
Buy your plan on helloroam.com, open your phone settings, and scan the QR code to install the eSIM profile. Turn on mobile data when you land in the UAE. The full setup takes about five minutes and can be done at home before your flight.
How much does a UAE eSIM cost in rupees?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for the UAE start at ₹379.75. Larger data plans are available for longer stays or for travellers who need data for video calls, maps, and streaming throughout the trip. Compared with roaming charges from Indian carriers, a HelloRoam plan offers meaningful savings with no hidden fees.
Can I use WhatsApp on a HelloRoam eSIM in the UAE?
WhatsApp messaging works in the UAE. However, WhatsApp voice and video calls are restricted under UAE telecom regulations. Use an approved calling app or international calling card for voice calls while in the UAE.
Is Indian Jio or Airtel roaming cheaper than a UAE eSIM?
For most trips of 5 days or more, a HelloRoam eSIM costs less than Indian carrier international roaming packs. Jio and Airtel UAE roaming plans typically cost ₹575 to ₹3,000 depending on duration and data. HelloRoam plans start at ₹379.75.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, HelloRoam works in Abu Dhabi on Etisalat 5G. Coverage is excellent across Corniche, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and the city centre. The same plan covers all UAE emirates, so one purchase works for your entire trip.
What to Know Before You Buy
eSIM requires an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device. Check your phone settings before purchasing.
Most travel eSIM plans provide data only. Your existing phone number stays active for calls and texts on your primary SIM.
Coverage quality varies by location within UAE. Urban areas typically have strong 4G/5G coverage, while rural or remote areas may have limited connectivity.
Install your eSIM before departure. Activation requires an internet connection, which may not be available at your destination airport.
Transparency Notice
- Service Provider Name (SPN)
- HelloRoam appears as the carrier name on your phone's status bar through the SPN, a standardized field in the eSIM profile. Unlike most travel eSIM resellers, HelloRoam provisions its own Service Provider Name.
- Public Network Name (PNN)
- The PNN is the network-name field inside your eSIM profile, defined by the 3GPP TS 31.102 standard (EF_PNN). Your phone can read this field to display the name of the network you are connected to.
- Access Point Name (APN)
- HelloRoam eSIMs auto-configure their Access Point Name during installation. Your device connects to the strongest local network infrastructure without manual settings.
Prices are our retail rates across 185+ countries. Plan recommendations use real traveller feedback and network performance data. Every purchase includes a 180-day money-back guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
