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We're Virgin. We know travel

Virgin have been around for decades and is a global brand - maybe you've heard of us before? Travel and telecoms are some of our specialties.

Now we're in the UAE as a local telecoms operator, offering eSIMs to you so you have seamless connectivity when you travel, with unlimited data plans that are uncapped and truly unlimited - no 'fair usage' policy.

The last thing you want to do when on holiday is to have tech issues and not get the support you need. That's why we've got around 50 stores in the UAE, app-chat support, a number to call, and email.

Got questions?

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is an electronic SIM card, or better described as an “embedded SIM”. By choosing an eSIM UAE, you unlock a world of benefits. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of carrying multiple SIM cards or worrying about losing or damaging them. eSIMs also offer flexibility and convenience for those who frequently switch devices or upgrade their smartphones. With a Virgin Mobile eSIM, you can easily transfer your mobile plan to a new device without needing physical SIM card swaps or visits to a store.

Where can I collect a physical Tourist SIM at the airport?

You can find Virgin Mobile stores at the following airport locations: 

  • Dubai Airport Terminal 1: On the left at the start of the walkway in the passenger's meet and greet area, just after immigration 
  • Dubai Airport Terminal 2: At the end of the walkway in the passengers meet and greet area, before you leave 
  • Dubai Airport Terminal 3: In the telecoms section of the terminal. Walk past Starbucks (on your right), and the store is located on the left before the passengers meet and greet area 
  • Abu Dhabi Airport: Two locations - a shop on the right-hand side of the arrivals terminal next to Big Ticket, and a kiosk on the left-hand side after the Travelex kiosk    
  • Sharjah Airport: Right after the passport control doors to the immediate left before leaving the airport 
How long does it take to activate a Tourist SIM?

There are two ways to activate your Tourist SIM: 

  • Facial Recognition (eSIM): This is the fastest option! Activation usually happens instantly 
  • Physical Activation (physical SIM): If you choose to activate your SIM in person at a store, the team will need to review your passport. This process might take a few hours before your SIM is activated 

Once your documents are approved, your SIM will be activated, and you'll be ready to go! 

Can I upgrade my Tourist Plan to a Yearly Plan? 

Absolutely! You can easily upgrade to a Yearly Plan while keeping your existing SIM card and phone number. To upgrade, go onto the Virgin Mobile app and select your chosen Yearly Plan and make the payment. Just remember that once you receive your Emirates ID you will need to update it through our app. 

You can do so with: 

  • UAE Pass 
  • Visiting a Virgin Mobile store: Our team can verify your Emirates ID and help you with the ID update process
I'm planning to stay in the UAE. Can I get a discount on a yearly plan?

Yes, you can get a 50% discount on a Yearly Plan even before you receive your Emirates ID. Sign up with your Passport and then once you have your Emirates ID, you can easily update your account details through the Virgin Mobile app.

What is the "Free Internet Calling"?

You can get Free Internet Calling for voice and video calls over the internet using the BOTIM app.

While the calls themselves are free, please note that the data used for these calls will be deducted from your plan's overall data allowance.

From the 10th of June, we are no longer offering Internet Calling service as part of our product portfolio. You can still download the BOTIM app to enjoy Free Internet Calling. 

All customers who paid for the Internet Calling service in our app on or after the above date will be automatically refunded. For more queries, please contact us via our in-app chat or call our hotline.

Are there any promotions available for Tourist Plans?

No, promotions are not applicable for Tourist Plans.

What are my options after my Tourist Plan expires?

When your Tourist Plan expires, you have two choices: 

  • Switch to a recurring Local Plan: This gives you a set amount of data and minutes each month, which is great if you need ongoing service 
  • Pay As You Go: This option allows you to pay only for the data and minutes you use, offering flexibility if your needs are less predictable. Just ensure you have sufficient funds in your in-app wallet to cover the cost 

Even if you switch to a recurring Plan or Pay as You Go, you'll still be able to use voice and data boosters whenever you need them. 

What is included in Tourist Plans?

Unlimited 15-30 Day Tourist Plans, 21GB 7-Day and 40GB 10-Day plans include 30 local minutes/SMS and 20 international minutes.

Unlimited Data only 3/10/20 Days Tourist Plans only include local data.

What are the daily data limits for the 7-day (21GB) and 10-day (40GB) plans?
  • 7-day (21GB) plan: You have a daily data limit of 3GB 
  • 10-day (40GB) plan: You have a daily data limit of 4GB 

For both plans, the daily data counter resets at midnight, and any unused data allowance is forfeited. This means you have a fresh amount of data to use each day, but any leftover data from the previous day doesn't carry over. This does not apply to Unlimited Data Plans. 

Can I renew my Tourist Plan after it expires?

No, the Tourist Plans are one-time only and cannot be renewed.

Can I use the Tourist SIM with my Emirates ID?

No, the Tourist Plans only apply to Passport or GCC ID holders.

How long are the Tourist Plans valid for?

The Tourist Plans are valid for 3, 7, 10, 15, 20 or 30 days.

What's the best way to get a Tourist SIM?

For the fastest and most convenient option, choose an eSIM! It activates instantly, so you can connect immediately without visiting a kiosk. If you prefer a physical SIM, you can collect one at our stores upon arrival at Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1, 2, and 3), Sharjah International Airport, or Abu Dhabi International Airport.

How can I pay for my plan?

We support a variety of payment options, including all major credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and cash (AED) at the airport for your tourist sim card.

Where can I find International Calling rates?
We currently have partnerships with networks in over 100 countries around the world. Use your International Minutes and get the best value. Want to see the rates?
How can I check my usage?
Easy. Download the Virgin Mobile UAE App & you can see your active plan. Dive in further by, selecting ‘usage’ from the navigation menu, at the bottom of your screen.
How can I get a SIM from the airport?
You can get a SIM card upon arrival at Dubai Airport, available at Terminals 1,2 and 3, as well as at Abu Dhabi & Sharjah Airports. Here's how to find us:
  • At Dubai Airport Terminal 1, we are located on the left at the start of the walkway in the passengers meet and greet area just after immigration
  • At Dubai Airport Terminal 2, we're at the end of the walkway in the passengers' meet and greet area before you leave
  • At Dubai Airport Terminal 3, we're in the telecoms section of the terminal. Walk past Starbucks which is on your right and we're located in front of you on the left before the passengers meet and greet area
  • At Sharjah Airport, we are present right after the passport control doors to the immediate left before leaving the airport
  • At Abu Dhabi Airport, we have 2 locations in the arrivals terminal. Our shop is located on the right-hand side of the terminal next to Big Ticket and our kiosk is located on the left-hand side of the terminal after the Travelex kiosk
What devices support eSIM?

To use an eSIM, your device must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Please reference the list below (both for iOS and Android devices) to see if your device supports eSIM technology. (Note that country and carrier-specific restrictions may apply.)

APPLE 

  • eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, some iPhone models feature eSIM

SAMSUNG 

Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22 5G, Galaxy S22+ 5G, Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, Galaxy S21 5G, Galaxy S21+ 5G, Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, Galaxy Z Flip4, Galaxy Z Fold, Galaxy Z Fold2, Galaxy Z Fold3, Galaxy Z Fold4, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20+, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. Please note: The following Samsung Galaxy devices DO NOT have eSIM capability: 

  • All Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and Galaxy S21 FE models
  • USA models of the Samsung Galaxy S20, Galaxy S21, and Galaxy Z Flip 5G
  • USA and Hong Kong models of the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2
  • Most Samsung devices purchased in South Korea do not support eSIMs

GOOGLE PIXEL 

Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 6a, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 5, Pixel 4, 4a & 4 XL, Pixel 3 & 3 XL, Pixel 3a & 3a XL Please note: The following Google Pixel devices DO NOT have eSIM capability: 

  • Pixel 3 models originating from Australia, Taiwan, and Japan, and those bought with service from US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi
  • Pixel 3a bought in South East Asia and with Verizon service

MOTOROLA 

Motorola Razr 2019, Motorola Razr 5G 

HUAWEI 

P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro Please note: The following HUAWEI devices DO NOT have eSIM capability: 

  • Huawei P40 Pro+ 
  • All Huawei devices purchased in China are not eSIM capable

SONY 

Xperia 10 III Lite, Xperia 10 IV, Xperia 1 IV 

Free 10GB for 6 months with eSIM

Purchase a plan with 3GB or more worth AED79 or more and sign up using facial recognition with eSIM to enjoy your free 10GB for 6 months.

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