Before making your choice

Keeping your original SIM

When considering mobile plans in Dubai, it's worth checking if your original mobile operator offers an international data plan. If they do, it might be more convenient and cost-effective to rely on that plan, especially during your initial days in the country. If you're using a mobile operator like Free, which offers international data plans (25gb), it might be more practical to rely on that during your semesters in Dubai. 

Emirates ID Requirement

The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card for all residents, including students, and you'll need it to sign up for most postpaid mobile plans with providers like Etisalat, Du, and Virgin Mobile.

To get an Emirates ID, you must first have a valid residence visa. Since most of you will arrive on a 90-day tourist visa, you won't have an Emirates ID immediately upon arrival. This means that until your student visa is processed and you receive your Emirates ID, you'll need to rely on prepaid mobile plans.

Prepaid Plans as a Temporary Solution

Etisalat, Du, and Virgin Mobile all offer flexible prepaid plans that you can use until you receive your Emirates ID. These plans allow you to manage your budget easily and offer various data, call, and SMS packages that can be tailored to your needs. Once you obtain your Emirates ID, you can switch to a postpaid plan, which typically offers better value for money and additional benefits like unlimited calls or higher data limits.