The UAE is one of the world’s most popular expat destinations, home to over 8 million expatriates — roughly 88% of the population. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have world-class internet infrastructure and a straightforward process for setting up phone and broadband services, though a residency visa is required for most contracts.

This guide covers the complete connectivity arc for expats moving to UAE — from the moment you land to having reliable home broadband set up and everything in between.

Step 1: Before You Leave — Activate Your eSIM

The single most important connectivity action before moving to UAE is activating a ConnectPls eSIM. Land at your destination airport already connected. Navigate to your accommodation, coordinate with landlords or relocation agents, and handle all arrival-day logistics with working data — not airport WiFi or expensive roaming charges.

Step 2: The UAE Residency Visa — Why It Matters for Connectivity

The UAE Residency Visa is the gateway to most UAE services. Without it, you typically cannot open a local bank account, sign a postpaid phone contract, or set up fixed broadband with most providers. Obtaining it requires a confirmed local address and a visit to the relevant authority — the process typically takes 2-4 weeks. During this entire period, your ConnectPls eSIM or SIM card subscription keeps you fully connected without any local documentation.

Step 3: SIM Card — Once You’re Settled

For the first few weeks in UAE, a ConnectPls SIM card subscription gives you a local +971 number and better data value than the eSIM for extended use. ConnectPls SIM cards for UAE don’t require UAE Residency Visa — they work immediately, giving you local network access while you complete the administrative setup.

Step 4: Home Broadband — The Long-Term Solution

For stays of 3 months or longer, fixed broadband in your UAE home is the most reliable and cost-effective connectivity solution. Etisalat (e&) and du and other local providers offer packages typically priced at 40-80 euros per month. You’ll need your UAE Residency Visa and a confirmed address for the contract. Once your broadband is live, scale back your ConnectPls subscription to mobile-only for out-of-home use.