United Arab Emirates – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for the UAE, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

The UAE’s country code is +971, and it is combined with the area code assigned to each individual emirate. When calling a UAE number from outside the country, dial your international exit prefix (or the + symbol on a mobile device), followed by 971 and then the area code — without its leading zero — and finally the local number. The leading zero used in domestic calls is always omitted for international dialling.

There are seven area codes across the UAE. The table below lists the codes for the emirates most frequently chosen by relocating residents:

Dubai landline numbers take the form +971 4 XXX XXXX, making a total of nine digits. Mobile numbers follow the format +971 5X XXX XXXX, where 5X denotes the network identifier — examples include 50, 52, or 55. A UAE mobile number typically comprises nine digits after the +971 country code, for instance +971 50 XXX XXXX.

The Dubai numbering system encompasses landlines, mobile numbers, freephone numbers (prefixed with 800), and premium-rate lines (prefixed with 900). When making calls within the UAE using a local phone, you simply dial the area code and local number together — no international exit code is required for domestic calls.

Who are the major landline providers in the UAE, and how can you contact them?

e& and du are the only two operators licensed to deliver fixed-line services — along with mobile and internet connectivity — throughout the UAE. While both companies operate on a national basis, their presence in specific residential properties can differ depending on the infrastructure arrangements that exist within particular buildings and communities.

Although e& owns the majority of the telecoms infrastructure across the country, du is the designated sole provider of cable television and residential internet in certain parts of Dubai. This means the operator available to you may be dictated by your building or residential development rather than personal choice alone. It is always advisable to check with your landlord or building management which provider covers your specific address before proceeding with any sign-up.

Both operators offer bundled packages combining landline access with broadband and television. As of 2025, pricing is subject to frequent revision — always refer to the official websites of e& and du for up-to-date tariffs. Should a dispute arise with your provider, complaints about e& and du covering mobile services, data, landlines, or other issues can be lodged directly with the TDRA at www.tdra.gov.ae.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in the UAE, and how can you contact them?

The UAE’s principal mobile operators are e& (Etisalat), du, and Virgin Mobile, all of which maintain broad national coverage. Alongside the two major network operators, a number of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) are active in the UAE market, delivering mobile services by leasing access to the infrastructure of e& or du. These MVNOs carry their own distinct branding while depending on the underlying physical networks of the two primary operators.

Founded in 1976, e& (Etisalat) is among the largest telecommunications groups in the UAE and wider Middle East region, serving millions of customers with mobile, internet, and home services. Its network spans the full breadth of the UAE — from densely populated urban centres and suburban communities to remote desert regions — and delivers 4G LTE, 5G, and fibre-optic connectivity throughout.

du was established in 2006 and has grown into the country’s second-largest telecoms operator. Its reputation for competitive pricing and forward-thinking services has made it a well-regarded option among both residents and visitors. du’s 4G network covers approximately 98% of populated areas across all seven emirates, as well as more than 95% of road networks.

Virgin Mobile UAE runs on du’s infrastructure and has built a loyal following by offering flexible, app-driven plans. It is especially popular with younger customers and those who prefer to manage their account entirely online, without the need to visit a physical outlet.

Both du and Etisalat offer a range of prepaid and postpaid options at varying price points, from around AED 36 up to over AED 200 per month (rates as of the time of writing — consult each provider’s official website for current plans). If you intend to live in or regularly travel through less populated areas, e& holds a slight advantage in rural coverage, which is a practical consideration worth factoring into your decision.

How do I get a landline connected in the UAE?

Setting up a residential landline in the UAE is a fairly simple undertaking, with both e& and du accepting applications online, by phone, and in person at service centres. The steps outlined below apply to residential connections; businesses may face additional requirements beyond those listed here.

1. Check which provider serves your building. In certain parts of Dubai, du is the only available provider for cable television and home internet. Speak to your landlord or building manager to find out which operator’s infrastructure is installed at your property before beginning the sign-up process.
2. Choose your plan. Browse the home bundle options on the official website of e& or du — landline, broadband, and TV are usually sold as a combined package. Tariffs are updated regularly, so always verify the latest pricing directly on the provider’s site.
3. Gather your documents. You will generally need your Emirates ID, passport, and either a tenancy agreement (Ejari) or evidence of property ownership. The name on the service account should correspond to the Emirates ID holder. Confirm the exact documents required with your provider in advance, as requirements may change.
4. Submit your application. You can apply through the provider’s website or app, by contacting their customer service team (e&: 101; du: 155), or by visiting a service centre or mall kiosk in person.
5. Schedule installation. Following approval of your application, a date for a technician visit will be agreed. Turnaround times differ by emirate and depend on whether existing cabling is already in place; for pre-wired buildings, activation can typically be completed within a few working days.
6. Pay any connection deposit or fee. Certain plans carry an upfront charge or a refundable security deposit. Review the current terms on your chosen provider’s website before committing.
7. Activate and test the line. Once the technician has completed their work, verify that all services are functioning correctly and register for online account management so you can monitor your usage and billing going forward.

Should you encounter problems or feel that your provider is not fulfilling its obligations, you may escalate the matter to the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), which is responsible for overseeing all aspects of telecommunications in the UAE under Federal Law by Decree No. 3 of 2003. Complaints can be submitted online at www.tdra.gov.ae.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in the UAE?

Obtaining a mobile SIM in the UAE is a quick and uncomplicated process. Customers can choose between two main approaches: a prepaid SIM offering pay-as-you-go flexibility or bundled data add-ons, and a postpaid contract billed monthly, which typically provides better overall value for regular users.

Getting a prepaid SIM

Picking up a prepaid SIM in the UAE requires little more than a valid passport and a form of payment. Provider kiosks are conveniently located in the arrivals areas of airports across the various emirates, where staff are on hand to assist with SIM selection, plan choice, and initial setup. Visitors are additionally required to present a copy of their UAE visa when purchasing a local SIM.

Etisalat offers a dedicated Visitor Line product, while du provides a Tourist Plan for those visiting the country. Both options come with a selection of bundles covering local and international calls, SMS, and mobile data — similar in concept to tourist SIM arrangements seen in many other countries. One important distinction in the UAE is that all SIM purchases must be registered against a valid identity document; anonymous SIMs are not permitted under any circumstances.

Getting a postpaid contract

The exact documentation required for a postpaid contract varies by provider but typically includes your Emirates ID, a GCC-issued debit or credit card, and in some cases your employment contract. UAE residency is a prerequisite — newcomers who have not yet received their Emirates ID are generally limited to prepaid SIMs until their residency status has been formally confirmed.

Postpaid contracts run for either one or two years and carry an AED 100 early-termination fee. While they offer greater value for heavy users, the penalty for leaving early is something to weigh carefully before signing up.

The entire process can often be completed online — some UAE providers offer free SIM delivery within the hour — or at a physical store or mall kiosk. The experience is generally fast and hassle-free. For prepaid top-ups, you can reload credit through your provider’s website or app, or purchase top-up cards at supermarkets, convenience stores, and mall kiosks.

How do I pay my telephone bill in the UAE?

e& and du both support a broad range of payment methods for settling landline and mobile accounts. Postpaid bills are issued monthly, and both providers deliver them digitally by default, though paper statements may be available upon request.

Payment options typically include:

• Provider apps and websites: The e& and du apps let you view account details, track usage, and settle bills directly from your device. e& UAE also enables customers to charge certain online services directly to their phone bill through the Add to Bill feature.
• Direct debit / auto-pay: Postpaid customers can link a UAE bank account or credit card for automatic monthly payments, removing the risk of accidentally missing a due date and having services suspended.
• In-person payment: Bills can be paid at e& and du service centres, as well as at a wide range of exchange offices, supermarkets, and mall kiosks around the country. Most UAE bank ATMs also support utility and telecoms bill payment.
• Bank transfer / online banking: The majority of UAE banks allow you to register e& or du as a payee and settle your account directly through your internet or mobile banking platform.
• Prepaid top-up cards: For prepaid customers, physical top-up cards can be bought at grocery stores, convenience outlets, and mall kiosks stocking phone provider products.

Failing to pay a postpaid bill on time can lead to service suspension, and reconnection may attract an additional fee. The UAE’s telecoms regulatory framework includes consumer protections — if you consider a charge to be incorrect or believe your service has been disconnected without valid cause, you can raise a complaint with the TDRA. Always verify current billing policies and the consequences of late payment directly with your provider, as terms are subject to change.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in the UAE as a newcomer?

VoIP and internet calling

The right to provide VoIP services — voice transmission over the internet — is reserved exclusively for the two licensed operators, e& and du. Any other provision of such services is prohibited under UAE law. As of January 2024, nine VoIP applications were authorised for use within the UAE: GoChat Messenger, BOTIM, Voico, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Zoom, C’Me, and HiU. Standard consumer apps such as WhatsApp voice calling can be unreliable or blocked — check with your provider whether your tariff includes VoIP access, as this functionality must be enabled at the plan level.

eSIM availability

Both e& and du now support eSIM functionality on compatible devices. e& offers prepaid and postpaid eSIM plans starting from AED 20–50, including data bundles with validity of up to 30 days along with optional call and SMS add-ons. du’s eSIM packages can be purchased directly through its online store or mobile app, with plans ranging from AED 30–60 for a 30-day period (as of 2024 — check provider websites for the latest pricing). eSIMs are a particularly practical solution for new arrivals who want to activate a UAE number instantly on a compatible handset, without needing to collect or wait for a physical SIM card.

Number porting within the UAE

Customers wishing to move from e& to du or vice versa can retain their existing number by porting it through the TDRA. The process is completed within one working day. Unlike many other countries where number transfers can take several days, the UAE system is notably efficient. The TDRA stipulates that any outstanding account balance with your current provider must be cleared in full before porting can proceed, and the number must remain active — not fully or partially disconnected — at the time of the transfer request.

Keeping your foreign number

It is not possible to port an international mobile number into the UAE network — number portability applies solely to numbers already registered within the UAE. If you wish to remain contactable on your home-country number, the most practical approach is to use a dual-SIM handset that can hold both your foreign SIM and a UAE SIM simultaneously, or to rely on internet-based communication apps where these are permitted.

Phone compatibility

You may use your existing handset in the UAE provided it is GSM-compatible and not locked to a particular carrier. An unlocked phone simply requires a new SIM to connect to the UAE network. The vast majority of modern smartphones sold internationally support the 4G and 5G frequency bands used in the UAE, but it is worth reviewing your device’s specifications before travelling to confirm compatibility.

Network quality and coverage

With 23.0 million active cellular connections in the UAE — a figure that exceeds the country’s population by more than double — mobile connectivity is deeply embedded in daily life and commerce. Both e& and du have deployed 5G networks across the UAE’s major urban areas, and either operator delivers capable 5G performance on a compatible device. For those frequently visiting less populated or remote areas, e& is generally regarded as offering the strongest nationwide footprint, making it the preferred choice for users who venture beyond city limits.

Caller ID and number transparency

The ‘Kashif’ system displays the name or identity of an incoming caller on the recipient’s phone, even when that caller is not saved as a contact. This applies to registered business numbers as well as private individuals. The system is designed to reduce the nuisance of unidentified calls and is implemented at a national level by the TDRA — it is worth being aware of when making or receiving professional calls.

Monitoring your registered numbers

The ‘Hesabati’ (My Account) digital service allows you to view all mobile and fixed-line numbers that are registered to your Emirates ID with telecoms providers in the UAE. The service is available exclusively to Emirates ID holders and is free to use. Access it by logging into the TDRA website using UAEPass. This tool is a valuable safeguard for checking that no SIM cards have been registered under your identity without your knowledge or consent.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in the UAE

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to the UAE?

It is not possible to transfer an overseas number into the UAE telecoms system. Number portability within the UAE is restricted to numbers already registered on the UAE network, allowing you to switch between e& and du while retaining your local UAE number. To remain reachable on a foreign number, consider using a dual-SIM handset alongside your UAE SIM, or make use of internet-based communication apps where these are permitted.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in the UAE?

A local address is not a requirement for obtaining a prepaid SIM. You will need your passport and a payment method; visitors must also provide a copy of their UAE visa. For a postpaid contract, an Emirates ID is required, and this is linked to a registered UAE residential address.

Can tourists buy a SIM card at UAE airports?

Yes. Both e& (Etisalat) and du operate retail outlets and kiosks in the arrivals areas of major airports in the UAE, making it straightforward to purchase a plan as soon as you arrive. You will need to present your passport and UAE visa to complete the purchase.

Which provider has the best coverage in the UAE?

Both e& and du deliver extensive coverage across the country. e& is generally considered to have a marginal advantage — particularly in rural and remote locations — as the country’s original operator, while du’s network covers over 99% of populated areas. For the majority of residents living in urban settings, either network performs comparably well.

Can I use WhatsApp calls in the UAE?

The right to provide VoIP services is reserved exclusively for e& and du under UAE legislation, and standard WhatsApp voice and video calls are frequently restricted. Authorised alternatives — including BOTIM, Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams — are available for use provided your tariff plan includes VoIP access. Always check the current position with your provider, as regulations and available apps can change.

How long does mobile number porting take in the UAE?

Porting your number between e& and du via the TDRA is ordinarily completed within one working day. Before initiating a port, ensure all outstanding charges with your existing provider are settled and that your number remains active — the TDRA requires both conditions to be satisfied before the transfer can be processed.

Is an Emirates ID required to get a postpaid mobile contract?

Yes, an Emirates ID is generally required for a postpaid contract, along with potentially a GCC-issued debit or credit card and/or an employment contract, depending on the provider. Newly arrived residents who have yet to receive their Emirates ID will typically need to use a prepaid SIM until their ID has been issued and their residency confirmed.

Where can I complain if I have a problem with my telecom provider in the UAE?

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of telecommunications in the UAE. Complaints concerning e& and du — covering mobile services, data, landline issues, or any other telecoms matter — can be submitted directly via the TDRA’s website at www.tdra.gov.ae.