Key takeaways
The UAE has some of the fastest 5G networks in the world, but VoIP calling apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime are blocked on local UAE networks. A Roamix UAE eSIM routes traffic internationally rather than through the local breakout, so WhatsApp calling, FaceTime and Google work normally without a VPN, which is the single biggest practical advantage for travellers. Budget 5 to 8 GB for a week.
- WhatsApp and FaceTime calling are blocked on local UAE networks but work on a Roamix eSIM because of international traffic routing.
- e& (Etisalat) leads for 5G speed and geographic coverage across all seven Emirates.
- The UAE is nearly entirely cashless, so a connected phone wallet is more useful than carrying dirhams.
- Most Western, Asian and GCC passport holders receive a visa on arrival or visa free entry.
- Budget 5 to 8 GB for a week, more if you make frequent video calls that would otherwise be blocked on a local SIM.
Best way to get data in United Arab Emirates
For travellers who need WhatsApp calling or FaceTime in the UAE, a Roamix eSIM is the simplest solution. The international routing restores these apps automatically with no VPN, no BOTIM subscription and no local SIM.
| Option | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Roamix eSIMRecommended | Best for: Most travellers, especially those who need WhatsApp or FaceTime calling | International routing restores WhatsApp calling and FaceTime that are blocked on local UAE networks. Instant activation with no SIM swap. |
| Local UAE SIM with BOTIM add-on | Best for: Long stays needing a local number | Available at airports and Virgin Megastores. WhatsApp calling remains blocked, but a BOTIM subscription provides a licensed calling alternative. |
| Pocket wifi | Best for: Groups sharing one device | Subject to the same local VoIP restrictions. WhatsApp calling will still be blocked on a local UAE pocket wifi device. |
| Carrier roaming | Best for: Very short trips | Expensive and still subject to UAE VoIP restrictions unless your home carrier routes internationally. Confirm with your provider before relying on it for calls. |
Hotel and mall wifi is fast and reliable across the UAE, but public wifi at restaurants and cafes varies. Note that VoIP blocking also applies on hotel and public wifi in the UAE, so WhatsApp calling still requires a Roamix eSIM rather than wifi.
Apps and internet access in United Arab Emirates
The UAE restricts unlicensed VoIP calling at the network level. WhatsApp voice and video calls, FaceTime and Facebook Messenger calls are blocked on local e& and du networks. Roamix routes your traffic internationally rather than through the UAE's local breakout, so these apps work normally on a Roamix eSIM without a VPN.
No VPN needed on Roamix
Roamix routes traffic internationally rather than through a restricted local breakout, so apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime and Google work normally without a VPN. This is the most important connectivity advantage for travellers visiting the UAE.
WhatsApp messaging (text, photos, voice notes) works fine on all UAE connections. It is only the live voice and video calling features that are blocked by the TDRA on local networks. The same applies to FaceTime and Messenger calls. On a Roamix eSIM the international routing means these restrictions typically do not apply.
WhatsApp calling and FaceTime, works
Blocked on local UAE networks (e& and du) but work normally on a Roamix eSIM because Roamix routes traffic internationally before reaching the internet, bypassing the UAE's local VoIP block.
WhatsApp messaging, works
Text messages, photos, voice notes and file sharing all work normally on any UAE connection, local or Roamix.
Google Maps and Search, works
Fully unrestricted. Works on both local SIMs and Roamix eSIMs.
Social media, works
Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok all work normally. Only VoIP calling is restricted on local networks.
How much data you need
UAE trips are not especially data heavy for navigation and maps, but the restoration of WhatsApp calling and FaceTime on a Roamix eSIM changes the picture for travellers who rely on these for keeping in touch with family and work.
3 to 5 GB
Weekend city break in Dubai
Maps, Careem, social media and a few WhatsApp video calls home via the Roamix international routing.
5 to 8 GB
One-week holiday covering Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Regular navigation, rideshare, daily WhatsApp calling and photo sharing across the trip.
15 GB or more
Remote work or frequent video calling
Multiple video calls daily through WhatsApp and FaceTime that are only possible via the Roamix international routing.
Data per hour, by activity
- Maps and navigation
- 5 MB
- Social media and browsing
- 100 to 150 MB
- WhatsApp or FaceTime video calls (via Roamix)
- 500 MB to 1 GB
- Music streaming
- 70 MB
- Standard video streaming
- 700 MB to 1 GB
If you plan to make frequent WhatsApp or FaceTime calls that would otherwise be blocked on a local UAE SIM, size up your data plan to account for video call usage, which can consume 500 MB to 1.5 GB per hour.
How to set up a United Arab Emirates eSIM
Install your Roamix UAE eSIM over wifi before departure. It activates on arrival and the international routing that restores WhatsApp calling and FaceTime is automatic, no VPN or extra configuration required.
- 1
Buy your plan on the Roamix UAE eSIM page before your trip.
- 2
Install the eSIM over home wifi by scanning the QR code.
- 3
Label it Roamix and keep your home SIM for standard calls and SMS.
- 4
Enable data roaming on the Roamix line only.
- 5
Land in the UAE and the eSIM connects automatically. WhatsApp calling and FaceTime work immediately.
Works on eSIM capable phones including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The phone must be carrier unlocked.
Roamix configures the APN automatically on most devices. If data does not start on arrival, apply the APN from your order and toggle airplane mode.
If WhatsApp calling does not work, ensure data roaming is on for the Roamix line rather than your home SIM or a local UAE SIM. The international routing only applies to the Roamix data line.
Visa and entry for United Arab Emirates
The UAE offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to nationals of over 70 countries including all EU states, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan and Singapore. Most visitors receive a 30 or 90-day stamp on arrival at no cost.
- Visa on arrival
- Available
- eVisa or ETA
- Visitors from eligible countries receive a visa on arrival automatically at UAE airports. No advance application is needed. Nationals of countries not on the visa-on-arrival list must apply for a UAE e-visa in advance through an airline or the ICP portal.
- Passport validity
- Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Onward ticket
- Proof of onward or return travel and confirmed hotel bookings may be requested at immigration.
Keep your Roamix eSIM active to present hotel confirmation and flight details digitally. WhatsApp calling works on your eSIM so you can contact your hotel immediately on arrival.
Entry rules change. Always confirm current requirements with UAE immigration or your local UAE embassy before booking.
When you land in United Arab Emirates
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How people message here
WhatsApp is the universal messaging app in the UAE for both residents and visitors. Text messaging works fine on local SIMs, but calling on WhatsApp or FaceTime requires a travel eSIM with international routing or a licensed alternative like BOTIM on a local plan.
Do you need a local number?
You do not need a local number for most travel purposes. A Roamix eSIM provides data with international routing, which restores WhatsApp calling and FaceTime that would otherwise be blocked on a local UAE SIM.
If you need to call locally, use BOTIM on a licensed UAE plan or standard cellular calls. For international calls including to family at home, a Roamix eSIM with international routing gives you WhatsApp and FaceTime calling without any workarounds.
Airports in United Arab Emirates
DXB
Dubai International Airport
Dubai
Free wifi throughout all terminals, though busy during peak international arrivals.
Install your Roamix UAE eSIM before departure. It connects on landing so WhatsApp calling works immediately and you can book a Careem before joining the taxi queue.
AUH
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Abu Dhabi
Free Abu Dhabi Airports wifi available. Terminal A (the new Midfield Terminal, opened 2023) has excellent coverage and is one of the world's most spectacular airport buildings.
Roamix data lets you navigate the enormous Terminal A, access WhatsApp calling, and book the Etihad Express bus to Abu Dhabi city centre in one step.
SHJ
Sharjah International Airport
Sharjah
Free wifi available. Smaller airport primarily serving budget carriers including Air Arabia.
Sharjah is 30 minutes from central Dubai by highway. Roamix data lets you book a Careem to Dubai before you clear arrivals, as the SHJ taxi rank can have long waits.
AAN
Al Ain International Airport
Al Ain
Free wifi available in the single main terminal.
Al Ain is Abu Dhabi emirate's inland oasis city with UNESCO-listed oasis gardens. Install Roamix before flying to Al Ain and your WhatsApp calls home will connect from the arrivals hall without any extra steps.
Getting around United Arab Emirates
Dubai has an excellent metro and the UAE is highly drivable between Emirates. Most booking and navigation relies on a data connection, and cashless payment is near universal.
Dubai Metro and buses
The Red and Green Metro lines cover major Dubai attractions. Top up a Nol card with the app or at station kiosks. A connected phone lets you check live departure times.
Careem and Uber
Careem is the dominant rideshare app across the UAE and requires an active data connection. Uber also operates. Both give fixed prices and driver tracking.
Self-drive between Emirates
Highways between Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the northern Emirates are fast and well signed. Navigation apps and a Roamix eSIM keep you oriented, especially for desert drives and wadi routes.
Water taxi and Abra
Traditional Abra boats cross Dubai Creek for a few dirhams. Apps are available for RTA water buses. A connected phone helps navigate the waterfront stops.
Nol cards for the Dubai Metro are available at stations and top-uppable via app. Careem is the most reliable app for taxis and rideshare across all Emirates.
Money and payments in United Arab Emirates
The UAE dirham is pegged to the US dollar at around 3.67 AED per USD. The UAE is almost entirely cashless, with contactless payment accepted everywhere from taxis to street food stalls.
- Cards and cash
- Cards and phone wallets are accepted at virtually every establishment. Small market stalls and older souks may still prefer cash, but even many of these now accept card.
- ATMs
- ATMs are widespread in malls and on major streets. Always choose to be charged in AED rather than your home currency to avoid dynamic conversion fees.
- Payment apps
- Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted. Careem Pay and local banking apps handle most payments. A connected Roamix eSIM keeps your banking and payment apps working throughout your stay.
- Tipping
- Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Around 10 to 15 percent in restaurants is customary if service charge is not included, and 5 to 10 AED for taxi drivers and hotel porters.
Daily budget
Budget travellers can manage on 200 to 400 AED a day with budget accommodation and street food. Mid-range travellers spend 500 to 1,000 AED, and luxury options are unlimited.
Local tips for United Arab Emirates
- Language
- Arabic is the official language but English is universally understood in hotels, malls, restaurants and tourist areas. A translation app is rarely needed for everyday use.
- Food
- Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer genuinely world-class dining, from Michelin-starred restaurants to outstanding street food in Deira's spice souk area. Book popular restaurants in advance through a connected reservation app.
- Plugs
- 220V, Type G plugs
Apps worth having
Careem
rideshare
The dominant rideshare and taxi app across the UAE, essential for getting around Dubai and Abu Dhabi without haggling.
BOTIM
calling
The UAE's licensed VoIP calling app, required if you have a local SIM and need to make app-based calls. Not needed on a Roamix eSIM where WhatsApp calling works through international routing.
RTA Dubai
transit
Official app for Dubai Metro, bus and ferry routes with real-time departures and Nol card management.
Safety and health in United Arab Emirates
The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates and strict law enforcement. Travellers should be aware of local laws around public conduct, alcohol and photography.
- Stay reachable
- Keep your Roamix eSIM active for navigation in unfamiliar desert areas and to use WhatsApp calling to contact your hotel or tour guide without relying on a local SIM that blocks calling apps.
- Health
- Summer heat is extreme, with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees. Stay hydrated, limit midday outdoor time in summer and use a weather app to track UV levels.
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink in the UAE, though bottled water is preferred by most residents and tourists.
Networks and coverage in United Arab Emirates
The UAE has two national carriers, e& (formerly Etisalat) and du, and both have deployed extraordinary 5G networks. The country ranks among the top globally for 5G speed and coverage. A Roamix UAE eSIM connects you to fast local 5G while routing your traffic internationally, which is what makes blocked VoIP apps like WhatsApp calling and FaceTime work without any VPN or workaround.
e& (Etisalat)
Leads in 12 out of 13 Opensignal network categories including 5G download speed, coverage experience and consistent quality. The preferred choice for national coverage and raw speed.
du
Strong urban 5G availability with excellent indoor penetration in Dubai Marina, Abu Dhabi malls and central business districts. Slightly behind e& on speed and rural coverage.
Virgin Mobile UAE
An MVNO operating on du's infrastructure. Budget-focused with the same urban coverage as du for city-based travellers.
- Typical speeds
- Expect 50 to 280 Mbps on 5G in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with e& recording a global-leading median 5G download of around 680 Mbps in optimal conditions.
- 5G
- 5G covers over 99.5% of the UAE's populated areas across all seven Emirates. Both e& and du have launched 5G-Advanced services in 2025.
The VoIP restriction is the biggest connectivity issue for visitors, not coverage. A Roamix eSIM solves this automatically through international routing, which is far more reliable and legal than using a consumer VPN.
Coverage is comprehensive across all populated areas and major highways. The most remote desert areas and some mountain wadis in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah may see reduced signal. UAE networks use globally standard LTE and 5G mid-band frequencies supported by most modern unlocked phones.
Where to go in United Arab Emirates
The UAE packs ancient desert landscapes, record-breaking architecture, souks and world-class dining into a tiny, very drivable country. All seven Emirates are reachable by car in a day, and a connected phone is essential for navigating between them, booking desert safaris and accessing contactless payments everywhere.
Best time to visit
November to March is the best weather window, with daytime temperatures of 20 to 28 degrees. Summer from June to September is extremely hot and humid but hotel prices drop significantly.
Dubai
The world's most visited city for international tourism. The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, the Creek and Gold Souk, Jumeirah Beach, the Dubai Marina, and the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood are the landmark draws. Dubai is also the world capital of record-breaking architecture.
- Burj Khalifa observation deck
- Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
- Al Fahidi Historic District
- Dubai Creek and Spice Souk
- Palm Jumeirah boardwalk
World-class 5G coverage everywhere including inside the Burj Khalifa, on the Dubai Metro and across the Palm. One of the best-connected cities on earth.
Abu Dhabi
The capital and most culturally substantial emirate. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Louvre Abu Dhabi brings the French brand to Saadiyat Island. Yas Island hosts Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix circuit.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Ferrari World Yas Island
- Corniche waterfront
- Qasr Al Watan palace
Excellent 5G from e& (headquartered in Abu Dhabi) across the entire capital. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Island, and the Yas Island complex all have full 5G.
Sharjah and the Northern Emirates
Sharjah is the UAE's cultural capital, with UNESCO Creative City status and the Sharjah Art Foundation. Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah offer a quieter UAE experience. RAK is growing fast as a hiking and eco-tourism destination around Jebel Jais.
- Sharjah Art Foundation
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Jebel Jais via ferrata
- RAK National Museum
- Al Hamra village ruins
Good 5G from e& in Sharjah city. RAK and Jebel Jais have 4G at the main cable car and trail head areas. Remote Hajar Mountain trails can lose signal above 1,500 metres.
Hatta and the Hajar Mountains
The inland exclave of Hatta, 115 km from Dubai, sits in the Hajar Mountains on the edge of Oman. The Hatta Dam lake, mountain bike trails, and a heritage village make it Dubai's preferred weekend escape.
- Hatta Dam and lake
- Hatta Heritage Village
- Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre
- Wadi Hatta pools
- Hatta Kayak
e& and du 4G at the Hatta Heritage Village, the dam overlook, and the Hatta Bike Park. Remote mountain trails above the dam have intermittent 3G. Download offline maps at the Hatta Hub before heading to the trails.
The Desert (Al Marmoom and Liwa)
The Abu Dhabi side of the Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali) around Liwa Oasis offers genuine dune sea landscapes. Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve outside Dubai has the Endurance City racing area and overnight desert camping. Dune bashing, camel riding, and Al Marmoom's flamingo lake are the experiences.
- Liwa Crescent dunes
- Al Marmoom Flamingo lake
- Fossil Rock Sharjah
- Overnight desert camp under stars
- Al Dhafra Camel Festival site
e& and du 4G at established desert camp sites and the Liwa Crescent road. True deep desert beyond marked camps can drop to no signal. Inform your hotel and download offline maps before extended desert trips.
Off the beaten path
The best-preserved pre-oil neighbourhood in Dubai, with wind tower architecture, the Dubai Museum, and a series of small cultural foundations and galleries. The Abra (traditional wooden boat) crossing to Deira Spice Souk is one of Dubai's most authentic experiences.
Signal: Excellent 5G from e& and du throughout Al Fahidi and the adjacent Creek waterfront.
The UAE's highest peak at 1,934 metres, with the world's longest zip line (2.83 km) and a via ferrata route. Cooler temperatures than Dubai year-round make it a popular weekend escape for UAE residents.
Signal: e& and du 4G at the cable car base and at most marked viewpoints. Remote hiking trails above 1,800 metres can lose signal. Download trail maps at the Jais Adventure Centre before heading up.
The UAE's only UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 147,000 date palms in an ancient falaj-irrigated oasis that has been continuously inhabited for 4,000 years. A profoundly different experience from coastal UAE.
Signal: Excellent e& coverage throughout Al Ain city and the oasis pathways.
The edge of the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter), the world's largest continuous sand desert. Liwa has the largest dunes in the UAE, some exceeding 250 metres, and is the ancestral homeland of the Al Nahyan ruling family.
Signal: e& 4G along the Liwa Crescent road and at major camp sites. Deep dune excursions beyond marked routes can drop to no signal. Inform your tour operator of your planned route and carry a satellite communication device for extended desert trips.
An architectural masterpiece by Jean Nouvel with an enormous perforated dome that casts rain of light effects across a collection mixing art from antiquity to the present. One of the great museums of the world, consistently uncrowded compared to its Paris namesake.
Signal: Excellent 5G throughout Saadiyat Island Cultural District.
A 150-metre picture frame shaped building with a glass-floored bridge at the top that frames Old Dubai on one side and modern Dubai on the other simultaneously. The most effective architectural metaphor in the city's skyline.
Signal: Excellent 5G from both e& and du at and around the Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park.
The UAE's Presidential Palace opened to visitors in 2019. The interior, including the Great Hall and library, is among the most opulent spaces in the Arabian Peninsula and a serious architectural statement.
Signal: Excellent e& 5G throughout the Qasr Al Watan grounds and visitor centre.
A seasonal outdoor festival city running October to April, where over 90 countries set up pavilions selling food, crafts, and cultural exhibits across 1.5 million square metres. The most affordable and accessible cultural experience in Dubai.
Signal: Excellent 5G from e& and du throughout the Global Village site in Dubai Sports City area.
A stunning dhow-shaped performing arts venue in Downtown Dubai, hosting international opera, ballet, classical music, and Broadway productions against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
Signal: Excellent 5G in the Downtown Dubai area around Dubai Opera and the adjacent DIFC.
A 115-km drive from Dubai through the Hajar Mountains leads to the turquoise Hatta Dam and a reconstructed 1820s mountain village, with the UAE's best mountain biking network (35 km of trails) running behind it.
Signal: e& and du 4G at the Heritage Village and dam viewpoint. Mountain bike trails above have intermittent signal. Download the Hatta Bike Park trail map at the Hatta Hub visitor centre before riding.
Events and seasons in United Arab Emirates
February to March
Dubai Food Festival
Dubai (citywide)
A month-long celebration of Dubai's extraordinary restaurant scene, with special menus, chef collaborations, beach food markets at Kite Beach, and the Michelin Guide UAE launch programming.
February to March
Abu Dhabi Festival
Emirates Palace and ADMAF venues, Abu Dhabi
A month-long performing arts festival bringing classical music, opera, and dance from La Scala, the Vienna Philharmonic, and leading international companies to Abu Dhabi's cultural venues.
February, ten days
Sharjah Light Festival
Sharjah (cultural sites)
A stunning light art festival projecting on the facades of Sharjah's historic mosques, cultural foundations, and the Corniche waterfront. Admission is free and it draws visitors from across the UAE.
February or March
Dubai Jazz Festival
Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai
The Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival brings international jazz, pop, and soul acts to the open-air Media City Amphitheatre over three to four nights. Past headliners have included Alicia Keys, John Legend, and Sting.
March, four days
Art Dubai
Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
The Middle East's most important contemporary art fair, with over 100 galleries from 50 countries and a dedicated Modern sector. Runs alongside Dubai Art Week, which activates galleries across the city.
March to April (varies by lunar calendar)
Ramadan Iftar Experience
UAE (citywide)
The month of Ramadan transforms the UAE at sunset, when the Iftar meal breaks the fast. Hotel Iftar buffets from luxury properties including the One and Only Royal Mirage, the Atlantis, and Emirates Palace are extraordinary communal feasts.
Late November
Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi
The final race of the Formula 1 World Championship season, held on the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. The race takes place at sunset and continues into darkness with the circuit lit for night racing.
Late December to late January
Dubai Shopping Festival
Dubai (citywide)
The world's largest retail festival, running for a month across all Dubai malls with massive discounts, raffles for cars and gold, and live entertainment. Global Village is also open during this period.
December to January
Al Dhafra Camel Festival
Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
One of the world's largest camel festivals, with thousands of camels judged for beauty, camel racing, and the Miss Camel pageant. A genuinely unique window into traditional Emirati culture.
December 2
UAE National Day
Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The UAE's founding anniversary, marking the formation of the federation in 1971. Spectacular fireworks and drone light shows above the Burj Khalifa and the Corniche in Abu Dhabi are among the most elaborate in the world.
Through the year
- Spring
- March to May offers warm but not yet brutal weather, with fewer crowds than winter and comfortable evenings for Corniche walks and outdoor dining.
- Summer
- June to September is extremely hot and humid, with daytime temperatures above 40 degrees. Indoor malls and beaches with air-conditioned cabanas are the main refuge. Hotel prices are their lowest.
- Fall
- October and November bring cooling temperatures and the lead-up to the F1 Grand Prix and winter event season.
- Winter
- December to February is peak tourist season with outdoor dining, beach days and major festivals. Book accommodation well in advance.
Working remotely from United Arab Emirates
The UAE is excellent for remote work with world-class internet infrastructure and abundant coworking spaces in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Note that VoIP calling is restricted on local connections, making a Roamix eSIM particularly valuable for workers who rely on WhatsApp or FaceTime calls.
- Connection
- 5G speeds on a Roamix eSIM easily handle video conferencing and file uploads. The international routing restores WhatsApp and FaceTime calling so work calls function normally without any additional tools.
Dubai's business districts and coworking spaces have fast fixed internet, but confirm whether their wifi uses a local UAE routing that blocks VoIP. Your Roamix eSIM is the most reliable option for call-heavy work days.
