Du runs its roaming status check and activation entirely through SMS keywords rather than a menu — a system distinctive enough that it’s worth learning the exact words rather than guessing.
Quick answer
Send “roaming” to 5102 to check your status. Dial *135*20# for the package menu, or send “IR” to 5102 to activate on prepaid.
The SMS-keyword system
| Send | To | Result |
|---|---|---|
| “roaming” | 5102 | Check current roaming status |
| “IR” | 5102 | Activate roaming (prepaid) |
Check status first before assuming you need to activate — many postpaid lines are already roaming-ready, and sending “IR” unnecessarily doesn’t cause harm but skips a useful confirmation step.
Choosing a package
Dial *135*20# or use the Du app → Plan → Manage Roaming to browse and compare destination-specific bundles by country before you fly.
While abroad
Enable Data Roaming in settings; if it wasn’t activated correctly, call 155 from du.
Need your regular balance too? See checking your Du balance.
Verified against du’s official roaming guidance, August 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Check status
Send "roaming" to 5102 to verify roaming is active on your Du line.
- 2
Activate if needed
Send "IR" to 5102 (prepaid). Or dial *135*20# for the roaming menu.
- 3
Subscribe to package
Use *135*20# or Du app to select a destination package. Enable Data Roaming in phone settings when abroad.
Alternative Methods
Dial *135*20# from your phone dialer.
SMS "IR" to 5102
Du App > Plan > Manage Roaming
du.ae > Roaming
Troubleshooting
No network abroad
Enable Data Roaming. Try manual network selection. Restart phone. Contact Du at 155 if roaming wasn't activated.
Unexpected charges
Subscribe to a roaming bundle immediately via *135*20# to cap future costs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Du roaming active by default?
Usually yes for postpaid; prepaid may need "IR" sent to 5102 first.
How do I check my roaming status?
Send "roaming" to 5102 for an instant status confirmation.
How do I avoid high charges abroad?
Subscribe to a package via *135*20# or the Du app before travelling.
What does sending "IR" actually do?
Activates roaming on a prepaid line — check status first via "roaming" to see if this step is even needed.
What if roaming still doesn't work abroad?
Enable Data Roaming in settings, try manual network selection, restart your phone, or call du on 155.