FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions | UAE Digital Insight

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To activate your SIM card: 1) Insert the SIM into your device, 2) Restart your phone, 3) Follow the SMS instructions or call the activation number provided, 4) For postpaid plans, you may need to visit a store with your Emirates ID. Most Salik prepaid recharge SIMs activate automatically within 15-30 minutes.

For UAE residents: Emirates ID and passport copy. For tourists: Passport and visa (visit visa is acceptable). Some providers may require additional documents like salary certificate for postpaid plans. Business plans require trade license and company documents.

5G service is usually available immediately if you're in a coverage area and have a 5G-compatible device. You may need to enable 5G in your phone settings (Settings > Mobile Data > Voice & Data > 5G). Some older plans may require an upgrade to access 5G networks.

Yes, mobile number portability (MNP) is available in the UAE. Visit your new provider with your Emirates ID and existing number details. The process typically takes 24-48 hours. There may be a small fee (usually AED 10-25). Your old account should have no outstanding payments.

Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot (iOS) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot (Android). Enable the hotspot and set a password. Note that hotspot usage may consume data faster and some plans have separate hotspot allowances. Check with your provider about any additional charges for tethering.

You can top up via: salik recharge apps, provider mobile apps, salik online recharge portals, scratch cards from shops, bank cards at ATMs, auto top-up services, retail stores, and some banks' mobile apps. Most methods are available 24/7. Credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets are widely accepted.

Postpaid bills are typically generated monthly on the same date each month. Bills are usually available 3-5 days before the due date. Payment is due within 30 days of the bill date. You can set up auto-pay through your bank or the provider's app to avoid late fees.

Common additional charges include: International roaming, premium SMS services, exceeding data limits, device insurance, and security deposits for postpaid plans. Always read the terms carefully and ask about VAT (5% in UAE), activation fees, and early termination charges.

Late payment may result in: Service suspension, late payment fees, restriction of outgoing calls/data, and potential account closure after extended non-payment. Grace periods vary by provider. Contact customer service immediately if you're having payment difficulties.

Refund policies vary by provider and plan type. Some offer cooling-off periods (usually 7-14 days) for new contracts. Prepaid top-ups are generally non-refundable unless there's a technical issue. Check your contract terms and contact customer service to discuss specific situations.

eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device - no physical card needed. Benefits include quick activation, simple switching between carriers, and dual-SIM functionality. Physical SIMs are removable cards that work in all phones. eSIM requires compatible devices (newer iPhones, some Android phones, smartwatches).

5G-compatible devices include: iPhone 12 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S21 series and newer, Google Pixel 5 and newer, OnePlus 8 and newer, selected iPad models, and many 2021+ Android devices. Check your device specifications or contact your provider to confirm 5G compatibility.

Most unlocked devices work in the UAE. Check that your device supports UAE network frequencies (GSM 900/1800, 3G 2100, 4G bands 1,3,7,8,20,38,40). Some features like VoLTE or WiFi calling may not work with international devices. Device should be unlocked (not tied to a specific carrier).

For iPhone: Use Quick Start or iCloud backup. For Android: Use Google backup or Smart Switch (Samsung). Cross-platform: Use third-party apps like Move to iOS or manually transfer via cloud services. Don't forget to backup WhatsApp separately and transfer any downloaded content manually.

Contact your provider immediately to block the SIM and prevent unauthorized use. Visit a service center with your Emirates ID to get a replacement SIM. There's usually a small fee (AED 20-50). Your number and plan remain the same. For lost SIMs, you may need to file a police report.

Speed can vary due to: Network congestion during peak hours, distance from cell towers, building materials affecting signal, device limitations, background app updates, and weather conditions. Try restarting your device, checking signal strength, or running speed tests at different times and locations.

Try these steps: Move to a higher floor or near windows, restart your device, toggle airplane mode on/off, update carrier settings, clean your SIM card, check for physical damage to your phone's antenna area, or use WiFi calling when available. Contact your provider if issues persist.

Salik: APN: Salik
e& (Etisalat): APN: etisalat.ae
Virgin Mobile: APN: vms
These usually configure automatically. If manual setup is needed, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Mobile Data Network (iOS) or Settings > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (Android).

Salik: 800 SALIK (800 72545), +971 4 709 8888
e&: 101 (from e& numbers), +971 4 390 0101
Virgin Mobile: 969 (from Virgin numbers)
All providers offer 24/7 support via phone, live chat on websites/apps, and social media. WhatsApp support is also available from most providers.

The UAE has internet regulations that block certain content. Some VoIP services may be restricted (though WhatsApp calling usually works). If you're having trouble with legitimate websites, try clearing your browser cache, using a different DNS server, or contacting your provider to ensure it's not a technical issue.

Use built-in controls: Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android). Most UAE providers offer family safety services for additional protection. You can also use third-party apps like Qustodio or Norton Family. Set data limits, time restrictions, and content filters appropriate for your child's age.

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