The DriftAsia eSIM plans for UAE shown on this page use Etisalat (e&), du and offer 5G depending on the plan. Check each plan for its exact network, data allowance, validity and price before choosing. Available plans are fully refundable within 30 days as long as the eSIM has not been used on a network at the destination.
Among the world's best 5G; VoIP often restricted on local SIMs.
Plan share by operator
Share of the eSIM plans we sell for UAE, by underlying operator.
- Etisalat (e&)54%
- du46%
Network at a glance
Etisalat (e&) is the network most travellers lean on in UAE. 5G is live on at least one operator we carry, so newer phones can reach top speeds in covered areas. On our Mobile Speed Index it scores 100, placing it among the stronger networks in the region. Median data price has risen from $1.28 per GB in April 2026 to $3.15 in August 2026.
The operators behind our plans
Each network we carry in UAE, with who runs it and what generation it reaches.
Common questions
Which operator is best in UAE?
Etisalat (e&) offers the widest reach for most travellers. Among the world's best 5G; VoIP often restricted on local SIMs. Our eSIM plans run on the strongest available network, so you do not have to choose a SIM at the counter.
Does UAE have 5G?
Yes. At least one operator we carry runs 5G, available mainly in larger cities and along major corridors. Older devices fall back to 4G automatically.
How much is a local SIM in UAE?
A tourist SIM bought on arrival typically runs $15-25. An eSIM skips the queue and the passport scan, and activates by QR code before you land.
How many operators power UAE eSIM plans?
We carry plans across 2 operators in UAE. The donut above shows how our catalogue splits between them.
How we read this
Plan share counts how many of the eSIM plans we sell for UAE run on each operator. It reflects catalogue depth, not subscriber market share. The top operator is the network we would hand a traveller who can pick only one.