Du’s eSIM process genuinely forks into two different flows depending on who you are — a resident converting an existing line, or a tourist activating a plan from scratch — and following the wrong one wastes time trying to authenticate against an account that doesn’t exist yet.
Quick answer
Residents: open the Du app → Manage SIM → Transfer to eSIM, authenticate via UAE Pass, and scan the QR code. Tourists: use the activation link from your eSIM purchase and complete passport verification directly, no UAE Pass needed.
Residents: converting an existing line
- Open the Du app and log in
- Go to Manage SIM → Transfer to eSIM
- Authenticate via UAE Pass (requires a registered account)
- Scan the generated QR code in your phone’s cellular settings
- Restart to complete activation
Tourists: no UAE Pass required
Connect to Wi-Fi, use the activation link or QR code from your tourist eSIM purchase, and complete verification via passport and a selfie — UAE Pass isn’t part of this path at all, since it requires an existing Emirates ID registration tourists don’t have.
Installing the eSIM
iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code.
Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code.
Verified against du’s official eSIM guidance, August 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Verify compatibility
Check your phone supports eSIM: iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Pixel 3+. Go to Settings > About Phone.
- 2
Convert in Du app
Open Du app > Manage SIM > Transfer to eSIM. Authenticate with UAE PASS.
- 3
Scan and restart
Scan the QR code in Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Restart your phone to complete.
Alternative Methods
Du App > Manage SIM > Transfer to eSIM
du.ae > eSIM
Troubleshooting
UAE PASS authentication fails
Ensure your UAE PASS app is updated and your Emirates ID is linked. Try again or visit a Du store.
No signal after eSIM install
Restart phone. Go to Settings > Cellular and ensure the Du eSIM line is enabled. Wait 5 minutes for network registration.
Look Up More USSD Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
Does switching to Du eSIM cost anything?
Generally free through the app for existing customers; tourist eSIM plans have their own separate pricing.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM together?
Yes, most modern phones support one eSIM plus one physical SIM simultaneously.
Do I need UAE Pass?
Only residents converting an existing line need it — tourists activate via passport and selfie verification instead.
What if UAE Pass authentication fails?
Ensure the UAE Pass app is updated and your Emirates ID is linked, then retry, or visit a Du store.
No signal after installing the eSIM?
Restart your phone, confirm the Du eSIM line is enabled in Settings → Cellular, and allow a few minutes for network registration.