The eagerly awaited iPhone 16 series has finally hit stores throughout the UAE. If you've upgraded to the iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro Max, it's crucial to remember that these models exclusively utilize eSIM technology. This shift isn't unique to the iPhone 16; several other devices, such as the iPhone 15, Google Pixel Pro, Xiaomi 13, Huawei P40, Motorola Razr, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, have also adopted eSIM.

One of the significant advantages of eSIM technology is its capability to handle multiple phone numbers directly on your device. This feature allows for seamless switching between personal and work lines, enhancing communication efficiency. However, if you're transitioning from a device that uses a physical SIM, note that your old SIM won't be compatible with your new iPhone. Fortunately, in the UAE, switching to eSIM is a straightforward process, thanks to the hassle-free services provided by major telecom companies.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you convert your physical SIM to eSIM:

Convert your physical du SIM:

1. Install the du app on your iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro Max, or any eSIM-compatible device.

2. Log into the du App.

3. Tap the menu beside the mobile number.

4. Tap ‘Manage your SIM’.

5. Select the SIM you want to convert or transfer.

6. Tap on 'Convert to eSIM' or ‘Activate eSIM on this device’ to transfer.

7. Verify your request using UAE PASS.

8. Once verified, the eSIM will be added to your device.

If you're using a corporate number, contact your corporate authorized signatory to obtain an eSIM.

Transfer your eSIM to a new device:

1. Install the du app on your eSIM-compatible phone.

2. Log into the du App.

3. Tap the 3 dots menu beside the mobile number.

4. Tap on 'Manage your SIM'.

5. Tap 'Activate eSIM on this device'.

6. Verify your request using UAE PASS.

7. Your eSIM will be added once you confirm and authenticate your account.

8. Tap 'Add' to confirm the eSIM installation.

9. Tap 'Activate' to successfully install your eSIM on your new device.

Once your eSIM is added to your phone, you can start using your mobile number and enjoy the services offered by du.

Similarly, you can convert your physical SIM or transfer your eSIM on iPhone or iPad by following these steps:

1. Connect to a Wi-Fi to start the process.

2. Sign into your new iPhone or iPad with the same Apple ID as your old iPhone or iPad and go to Settings > Cellular.

3. Tap ‘Add eSIM’ to transfer a mobile number from one device to another device.

Alternatively, you can:

1. Tap ‘Set up cellular’ to transfer a mobile number from your old device if you are setting up a new device.

2. Select your mobile number and tap 'Convert to eSIM' if you want to convert the SIM on the same device.

3. A du webpage will be opened on your iPhone or iPad where you can log in with your du username and password, then tap 'next'.

4. Agree on terms and conditions, then continue.

5. Your eSIM will be activated as you set up your device. Once the activation is complete, you’ll receive an SMS on your mobile number and an email to your registered address.

Transfer your physical e& SIM to eSIM:

1. Install the e& app on your iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro Max, or any eSIM-compatible device you wish to activate the eSIM.

2. Log into the e& UAE App with your UAE PASS.

3. Select 'Profile' and Tap 'Your Accounts'.

4. Tap ‘Manage’ and tap 'My SIM cards'.

5. If you have more than one SIM card, pick the SIM you want to convert or transfer.

6. Select ‘Replace SIM/Switch to eSIM’.

7. Choose the option that applies.

8. Once the process is completed, you will then receive a notification from e& informing you of the status of your request.

Transfer from iPhone to iPhone:

1. Sign into your new iPhone with the same Apple ID as your old iPhone and go to Settings > Cellular.

2. Tap the mobile number of the existing iPhone and then tap ‘Add Cellular Plan’.

3. Log in to e& app using your UAE Pass.

4. Tap ‘Transfer eSIM’.

5. Tap ‘Next’ once the system informs you that the eSIM will be deleted from the old iPhone.

If the transfer process fails or you're having trouble, it is recommended to apply for an eSIM replacement. You can refer to the 'Replace your eSIM' section for instructions.

Remember, you will be charged Dh25 plus Value Added Tax (VAT) for this service.

Virgin mobile:

You can switch from your physical Virgin Mobile SIM to an eSIM at no additional cost. If you're using an iOS device, follow these steps to update your SIM:

1. Log in to your Virgin Mobile app.

2. Go to 'My Account', tap on 'My Number', then select 'Move to eSIM'.

3. Tick all the instruction boxes and tap on 'Get started'.

4. Enter your password to verify your identity.

5. You will receive an OTP code and enter the code to confirm that you want to swap from physical SIM to eSIM.

6. Your physical SIM will be deactivated once you confirm.

7. Tap 'Install eSIM' and you'll be directed to phone settings. Select 'Add Cellular Plan' and continue.

8. The eSIM will be automatically added to your phone.

You can also choose to install eSIM later; Virgin Mobile will email you a QR code to scan and activate it on your device. To scan the QR code, go to Settings > Cellular, then tap 'Add Cellular Plan' on your supported device.

If you're an Android user, you will need to visit the nearest store to switch to eSIM. Note that:

1. You must be physically in the UAE to change to eSIM.

2. You can activate your SIM as an eSIM by asking Virgin Megastore staff for assistance.

3. You’re allowed up to 5 eSIM swaps per year; exceeding this will incur a fee of Dh10.

Fees:

e& offers eSIM activation for free through the e& app when you log in with your UAE Pass, as part of a limited-time promotion. However, if you’re an e& user looking to transfer your eSIM from an old iPhone to a new one, there will be a charge of Dh25 plus VAT for that service.

Meanwhile, both Du and Virgin Mobile provide eSIM activation free of charge.

Eligibility:

All new and existing customers are eligible for du, e&, and Virgin Mobile eSIM, including tourists.