The UAE continues to provide a range of affordable mobile data plans in 2025, catering to residents, tourists, and business travelers alike.

Whether you opt for traditional SIM cards or modern eSIMs, the market offers competitive options with flexible data packages, validities, and pricing.

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Here’s a detailed overview of the most economical and best-value mobile data plans available in the UAE this year.

1. eSIM Providers: Affordable and Flexible Data Plans

With the rise of eSIM technology, users can enjoy convenient mobile data plans without the need for physical SIM cards. Here are two leading eSIM providers known for their affordability and coverage:

Jetpac

• Plans: 1GB for 4 days, 3GB for 7 days, and 5GB for 30 days.
• Starting Price: Just $1.00 for 1GB lasting 4 days, making it the most affordable option for short-term data needs.
• Network: Operates on du’s network with 4G and 5G speeds.
• Support: Available via WhatsApp and email during working hours.

Airalo

• Plans: 7 prepaid data plans ranging from 1GB to unlimited data.
• Starter Plan: $4.50 per week for 1GB.
• Network: Uses Etisalat’s network, offering 4G and 5G connectivity.
• Support: 24/7 customer service through various channels, including live chat.
• Unlimited Plans: Available for durations of 7 to 30 days.

These eSIM options are perfect for travelers seeking quick and affordable data without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

2. Local Telecom Operators: Etisalat and Virgin Mobile

For those who prefer local telecom providers, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile offer competitive prepaid plans that combine data, local minutes, and international calling options.

Etisalat Prepaid Data Plans

• 2GB + 30 flexi minutes: 49 AED (~$13 USD)
• 4GB + 30 flexi minutes: 79 AED (~$22 USD)
• 10GB + 120 flexi minutes: 125 AED (~$34 USD)
• 20GB + 525 flexi minutes: 200 AED (~$54 USD)
• Unlimited data + 100 flexi minutes: 319 AED (~$87 USD)

Etisalat also provides hourly unlimited data packages:

• AED 3 for 1 hour
• AED 6 for 3 hours

Activation is easy via USSD codes, and plans are valid for 30 days, catering to both light and heavy data users.

Virgin Mobile UAE

• 14GB + 100 local minutes + 50 international minutes: 239.4 AED (~$65 USD)
• 20GB + 200 local minutes + 50 international minutes: 299.25 AED (~$82 USD)
• Unlimited data + 30 local minutes + 20 international minutes for 7 days: 275 AED (~$75 USD)
• Unlimited data + 30 local minutes + 20 international minutes for 30 days: 525 AED (~$143 USD)

Virgin Mobile’s plans are attractive for tourists needing both data and voice minutes, with appealing unlimited options for shorter stays.

3. Other Notable eSIM and Data-Only Plans

• Holafly: Unlimited daily data starting at 6for1day,scalingto6 for 1 day, scaling to 6for1day,scalingto75 for 30 days, with fair use policies.
• Airhub: Offers excellent value tourist eSIMs at rates as low as $1.30 per GB.
• Other providers like Saily, eSIM4Travel, and Global YO offer 5GB to 20GB data plans valid for 15 to 30 days, priced between 10and10 and 10and50.

In 2025, the UAE presents some of the most affordable and flexible mobile data plans, whether through traditional SIM cards or innovative eSIM providers. For budget-conscious users, Jetpac’s $1 for 1GB plan is unbeatable for short stays.

Meanwhile, Etisalat’s prepaid plans deliver excellent value for longer use. eSIM providers like Airalo and Holafly offer convenient digital alternatives with competitive pricing and unlimited data options, catering to both travelers and residents.

Choosing the right plan depends on your data needs, duration of stay, and preference for physical SIM or eSIM technology, but the UAE market in 2025 ensures affordable options for all users.

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Abu Dhabi: For millions of Muslims around the globe, Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage, a journey of faith and devotion.

As Hajj 2025 approaches, those in the UAE preparing to embark on this spiritual voyage must navigate a series of essential requirements to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience.

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For Emirati Citizens: A Streamlined Process

Mohammed Khaloof, Director of the Al-Ridwan Hajj and Umrah Campaign, highlights the two-stage process for UAE nationals. With a quota of 6,228 pilgrims, registration took place in late 2024.

Now, pilgrims are in the process of selecting a licensed Hajj campaign under the supervision of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE).

“The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments assists pilgrims at every step to ensure all procedures are smoothly completed,” says Khaloof.

The GAIAE provides comprehensive services, including religious guidance, free healthcare, emergency response, and quality inspections of accommodations.

Key Documents for Travel:

• Valid Hajj permit
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Return travel ticket
• Vaccination certificates

For Non-Emirati Residents: Navigating the Options

Since 2017-2018, Hajj permits have been limited to UAE citizens. Expatriates residing in the UAE must apply for Hajj from their home countries.

However, for expatriates residing in GCC countries, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj has launched the Nusuk platform and mobile app, offering a convenient way to register and apply for a Hajj permit. The process involves uploading required documents and proof of vaccination.

The Vital Role of Vaccinations

Given the massive scale of Hajj, public health is paramount. Vaccinations are not merely recommended; they are essential for all pilgrims.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Saudi Ministry of Health emphasize their importance in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

Emirates Health Services (EHS) Taking Action

Highlighting the importance of vaccinations, the Emirates Health Services (EHS) urges all intending pilgrims to receive the required and recommended vaccines in a timely manner.

EHS has designated 52 health centers across the UAE to provide vaccinations and conduct medical assessments, ensuring pilgrims are fit for the journey.

Mandatory Vaccinations:

• Meningococcal vaccine
• Seasonal influenza vaccine
• COVID-19 vaccine (for high-risk groups)

Recommended Vaccinations:

• COVID-19 vaccine (for all pilgrims)
• Pneumococcal vaccine (for those aged 65 and above, or 19+ with chronic conditions)

Timing and Certification:

EHS advises that all required vaccinations should be administered at least 10 days before travel. Pilgrims must present a certificate confirming they have received the necessary vaccinations, issued no more than three years prior and at least ten days before arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Preparing for Hajj is more than just logistics; it’s a spiritual undertaking. By ensuring all necessary documents are in order and prioritizing health through vaccinations, pilgrims from the UAE can embark on this extraordinary journey with peace of mind, ready to embrace the profound experience that awaits them.

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Dubai’s allure for tourists often includes the thrill of driving a luxury car along its expansive highways. However, this dream can quickly turn into a financial nightmare due to the UAE’s strict and often unfamiliar traffic regulations. Speeding, in particular, is a major pitfall, leading to substantial fines that can catch visitors off guard.

One rental company, 7Cars Rent a Car LLC, recounted a shocking incident where a tourist racked up a staggering Dh43,000 in traffic fines, which eventually ballooned to Dh86,000.

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The company ended up footing the bill when the tourist left the country before the case could be processed.

This isn’t an isolated incident. Soham Shah, CEO of SelfDrive Mobility, noted that many tourists are unaware of speed limits, grace thresholds, and the widespread use of radar enforcement.

He cited an example of a customer receiving six speeding fines within five minutes, totaling over Dh1,000.

Rental Companies Respond with New Strategies

To address this growing problem, car rental companies in the UAE are proactively implementing new policies and educational initiatives:

• Stricter Financial Measures: Companies like 7Cars Rent a Car now primarily accept credit cards and pre-authorize transactions to mitigate the risk of unpaid fines.
• Comprehensive Education: Rental firms are providing customers with detailed information on UAE traffic laws, speed limits, and other crucial regulations before they even get behind the wheel.
• Real-Time Updates: SelfDrive Mobility has implemented a policy of regularly updating customers during their rental period if any fines are issued, preventing unpleasant surprises.
• Deposit Alternatives: Udrive has taken a different approach by eliminating deposits altogether, charging customers only for fines that appear in their system.

Understanding the Fines and Your Rights

Traffic fines in the UAE are linked to a vehicle’s number plate and managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Rental companies must manually retrieve these fines and match them to the responsible customer. While companies typically deduct the fine from the deposit, disputes can arise.

Soham Shah emphasizes that customers have the right to challenge a fine with the RTA. If a waiver is granted, the rental company will refund 100% of the amount.

Legal Recourse for Unpaid Fines

Sunil Ambalavelil, a lawyer at NYK Lawyers and Legal Consultants, explains that rental companies can pursue legal action to recover unpaid traffic fines. This can include filing a civil claim, which may result in a travel ban for the offending customer. In more serious cases involving fraud or bounced checks, criminal complaints can be filed.

A Collaborative Effort for Safer Roads

Benny Thomas, CFO of Thrifty and Dollar Car Rental, highlights the importance of collaboration. His company is exploring partnerships with tourism boards to promote better awareness among visitors.

The ultimate goal is to support safe driving through education, ensuring that tourists can enjoy their UAE experience without the burden of unexpected and costly traffic fines.

By implementing these measures, UAE car rental companies are striving to create a safer and more enjoyable experience for tourists, ensuring that their memories of the UAE are filled with stunning skylines and smooth drives, rather than hefty fines and legal troubles.

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Abu Dhabi: The Integrated Transport Centre (AD Mobility) has announced partial road closures and traffic diversions in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, starting Saturday, May 10, 2025.

These measures are part of ongoing efforts to enhance road infrastructure and improve traffic flow.

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In Abu Dhabi, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20) will experience a three-phase lane closure from May 10 to May 12. Motorists are advised to check the detailed map released by AD Mobility for route planning.

Al Ain will also have traffic diversions on Hazza Bin Sultan Street and Nahyan The First Street (Zakhir Roundabout) from May 10 to August 10, 2025, and on Nahyan The First Street from May 10 to July 10, 2025.

Additionally, a new traffic signal will be activated in Riyad City, Abu Dhabi, on Saturday, May 10.

AD Mobility urges motorists to drive cautiously, follow traffic signs, and plan journeys in advance to avoid delays.

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