A Visit to Dubai: Guide to Buy SIM Cards, Cost of Hotels on Visit Visa

Dubai is a popular travel destination for people all around the world. Known for its stunning architecture, luxurious shopping malls, and beautiful beaches, Dubai is a city that offers a unique experience to travelers.

Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, having a good understanding of the city’s infrastructure and costs can go a long way in making your trip a smooth and enjoyable one. In this article, we’ll be providing you with a comprehensive guide to buying SIM cards in Dubai, as well as the cost of hotels on visit visas in Dubai.

Cost of Living in Dubai on Tourist Visa

Dubai is a popular tourist destination with a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including luxurious five-star hotels, mid-range hotels, and budget-friendly options. The cost of hotels in Dubai can vary depending on the location, season, and type of accommodation.

Luxury hotels in Dubai can cost upwards of $500 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between $100 to $300 per night. Budget-friendly options, such as hostels or guesthouses, can cost around $20 to $50 per night.

Telecommunications in Dubai:

Dubai’s telecommunication system is well developed and offers reliable services to residents and visitors alike. The two main telecom operators in Dubai are Etisalat and Du. Both operators offer prepaid and postpaid plans with varying rates, depending on your usage and needs. You can easily buy a SIM card from the airport or any of the telecom operator’s stores located throughout the city.

One important thing to note is that the cost of hotels in Dubai tends to be higher during the peak tourist season, which typically falls between November and April when the weather is cooler. During this time, hotel rates can increase by up to 50%.

Buying a SIM Card in Dubai:

Buying a SIM card in Dubai is a simple process. You can either purchase it at the airport or from one of the many telecom operator’s stores located throughout the city. You’ll need to present your passport to purchase a SIM card, which will be registered in your name. Once you have the SIM card, you’ll need to activate it by dialing the telecom operator’s activation code, which will be provided to you at the time of purchase.

Types of SIM Cards Available

There are two types of SIM cards available in Dubai – prepaid and postpaid. Prepaid SIM cards are a popular option for travelers, as they offer flexibility and affordability. With a prepaid SIM card, you’ll only pay for what you use, and there are no fixed monthly charges. Postpaid SIM cards, on the other hand, require a monthly subscription fee and offer more benefits, such as free calling minutes and data.

Best SIM Card Providers in Dubai

Etisalat and Du are the two main telecom operators in Dubai. Both offer reliable services, but Etisalat is considered to be the market leader, with better coverage and faster internet speeds. However, Du is known for its affordable plans and competitive pricing.

Cost of SIM Cards in Dubai

The cost of SIM cards in Dubai varies depending on the telecom operator and the plan you choose. On average, a prepaid SIM card will cost you around AED 50 to AED 100, while a postpaid SIM card will cost you around AED 200 to AED 400 per month. However, telecom operators often offer promotional deals, so it’s worth checking their websites or visiting their stores to find out about the latest offers.

Both networks have good internet plans and deals. You can also use DU internet packages which are not more expensive. Etisalat is also a good network and its packages are same like DU. Only coverage is different which you can check by your area.

Hotels on Visit Visas in Dubai

Dubai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, but they can be quite expensive. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, especially for those on visit visas. Hotels in the Deira and Bur Dubai areas are known to be more affordable, with prices starting from as low as AED 100 per night. However, if you’re looking for something more upscale, hotels in the Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah areas offer luxurious amenities, but at a higher cost.

Cost of Hotels on Visit Visas in Dubai

The cost of hotels on visit visas in Dubai varies depending on the location, season, and type of hotel you choose. To get the best deals on hotels in Dubai, it’s recommended to book in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season. You can also look for deals on travel websites or through the hotel’s own website, which often offers promotions and packages that can help save money.

Another option is to stay outside of the main tourist areas, as hotels in these areas tend to be more expensive. Areas like Deira and Bur Dubai offer more affordable accommodations and are still well-connected to Dubai’s main attractions.

In addition to the cost of the hotel itself, there are also additional fees to keep in mind. Dubai charges a tourism tax of 7% on top of the hotel room rate, and some hotels may also charge a resort fee or additional taxes.

Overall, the cost of hotels in Dubai can be high, particularly during peak tourist season, but there are ways to save money by booking in advance and looking for deals outside of the main tourist areas.