Phone, internet and WhatsApp

Getting connected is quick, but internet calling works differently here. And in the UAE, WhatsApp runs much of daily life.

Last checked 1 Oct 2026·Information, not advice

In 30 seconds

Buy a visitor SIM with your passport on day one, then switch to a resident line once you have your Emirates ID
WhatsApp messages work, but WhatsApp and FaceTime calls usually don’t: use Zoom or Teams instead
Keep your UK number for bank security codes

Your first SIM

The two networks are e& (formerly Etisalat) and du. You can buy a visitor SIM at the airport with your passport. Once your Emirates ID arrives, switch to a resident plan in your name.

Home internet

Home fibre or 5G plans cost about AED 229–341 a month. You usually need your Emirates ID and your Ejari tenancy number to sign up. Check before relying on it

WhatsApp runs daily life

In the UK, WhatsApp is for friends. In the UAE it’s how most things get done.

Who	What they use it for
Landlords and agents	Viewings, contracts and repairs
Schools	Class parent groups, buses and clubs
Services	Clinics, garages, salons and deliveries
Community	Neighbourhood, sport and interest groups

Voice notes are normal, even from businesses
Business accounts with a shop name are safer than personal numbers
Keep messages polite: UAE laws on insults apply to WhatsApp too

Calling home

	Works?	Notes
WhatsApp messages and voice notes	Yes	Work normally
WhatsApp and FaceTime calls	Usually not	Voice and video calls don’t usually connect
Zoom and Microsoft Teams	Yes	The usual free way to video-call family
Licensed calling apps	Yes, paid	For example Botim, by subscription
Normal phone calls	Yes	Check your plan’s international rates

The rules on internet calling change. Check before you rely on one app. Check before relying on it

Keeping your UK number

UK banks, HMRC and many apps send security codes by text
Move it to a cheap SIM-only plan or an eSIM that works abroad
Your WhatsApp can stay on your UK number while you use a UAE SIM
Check what your UK plan charges to receive texts abroad

What to do next

Buy a visitor SIM on arrival
Move your UK number to a cheap plan you can keep
Set up Zoom or Teams with your family before you go

Sources

Last checked 1 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the official source before you act. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@theglobalocal.com.