eSIM explained: what it is and how it works

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a data plan in minutes – ideal for travelling without roaming fees and without swapping SIM cards.

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What is an eSIM?

eSIM stands for “embedded SIM”: a small chip that is permanently built into your device. It does everything a physical SIM card does and connects you to a mobile network, but the plan is installed digitally, by scanning a QR code or tapping a button in an app.

Most current smartphones, tablets and smartwatches support eSIM. One device can store several eSIM profiles, so you can add a travel data plan next to your usual contract and switch between them in your settings.

How does an eSIM work?

Your eSIM is pre-installed software. Once a plan is downloaded, your phone connects to a local network just like with a physical SIM.

1
Check compatibility
Check if your device supports eSIM before you get started.
Check compatibility
2
Choose a plan
Choose the eSIM package that best fits your travel needs.
3
Install your eSIM
Install your eSIM using the app or follow the instructions in your email.
How to install

How to set up an eSIM

After purchase you receive a QR code by email. Install it before you leave – it activates when you arrive.

Set up an eSIM on your iPhone

1
Choose your eSIM data plan
Pick your destination and buy your eSIM data plan. Your eSIM arrives by email within minutes.
2
Tap “Install link” in your email
Open the email we sent you on your iPhone and tap “Install link”. Your iPhone guides you through the rest.*
3
Turn it on at your destination
At your destination, switch on your ArabSIM eSIM, select it for mobile data and turn on data roaming. That’s it, you’re online.

*Automatic installation is available on iOS 17.4+ and Android 10+.

Set up an eSIM manually on your iPhone

Open Settings.
Tap Mobile Service (or Mobile Data / Cellular).
Tap Add eSIM.
Choose Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen.
Paste the eSIM details we sent to your email.

Set up an eSIM on your Android phone

1
Choose your eSIM data plan
Pick your destination and buy your eSIM data plan. Your eSIM arrives by email within minutes.
2
Tap “Install link” in your email
Open the email we sent you on your Android phone and tap “Install link”. Your phone guides you through the rest.*
3
Turn it on at your destination
At your destination, switch on your ArabSIM eSIM, select it for mobile data and turn on data roaming. That’s it, you’re online.

*Automatic installation is available on iOS 17.4+ and Android 10+.

Set up an eSIM manually on your Android phone

Go to Settings, then Connections.
Tap SIM manager (or SIMs).
Tap Add eSIM.
Choose Scan QR code, then Enter activation code.
Paste the activation code we sent to your email.

Set up an eSIM using a QR code

1
Choose your eSIM data plan
Pick your destination and buy your eSIM data plan. Your eSIM arrives by email within minutes.
2
Scan the QR code sent to your email
On your eSIM-compatible phone, scan the QR code we sent to your email and install your eSIM.
3
Turn it on at your destination
At your destination, switch on your ArabSIM eSIM, select it for mobile data and turn on data roaming. That’s it, you’re online.

Full installation guide

eSIM advantages

Why more and more travellers switch to eSIM: no plastic card, no shop visit and no roaming surprises – just mobile data that’s ready when you land.

No roaming fees
Prepaid local data rates instead of expensive roaming charges.
Instant delivery
Buy online and receive your eSIM by email within minutes.
Keep your number
Your own SIM stays active for calls and SMS while the eSIM handles data.
Multiple plans, one phone
Store several eSIM profiles and switch between them in settings.
Can’t get lost
No tiny card to swap, lose or damage on the road.
Less plastic
No card, no packaging, no shipping.

eSIM limitations

eSIM is simple, but not perfect for everyone. Here’s what to check before you buy, so your travel data works from the first minute.

Device must support eSIM. Most phones from 2018 onwards do – check your model before you buy.
Internet needed to install. Install your eSIM over Wi-Fi, ideally before you leave home.
Moving to a new phone. An eSIM is tied to one device. Switching phones may need a new installation.

eSIM vs. physical SIM: what’s the difference?

The main difference: an eSIM is a digital profile on a chip built into your device, while a physical SIM is a removable plastic card.

	eSIM	Physical SIM
Format	Digital profile on a built-in chip	Removable plastic card
Activation	Scan a QR code – the plan starts at your destination	Insert the card into your device
Plans per device	Several profiles, switch in settings	Limited by SIM slots
Removal	Delete or deactivate the profile	Take out the SIM card
Loss and theft	Can’t be lost or removed	Can be lost, damaged or stolen
Compatibility	Requires an eSIM-compatible device	Requires a SIM slot
Using abroad	Affordable local data plans	Often expensive roaming

Get an eSIM data plan for your trip

Find a mobile data plan for your next destination and get connected in minutes.

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Frequently asked questions about eSIMs

Find helpful information to answer your questions.

Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM?

For travelling, usually yes: you buy it online, install it in minutes and keep your own SIM for calls. A physical SIM is only needed if your phone doesn’t support eSIM.

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?

Yes. Most eSIM phones support dual SIM: your physical SIM keeps your number, the eSIM provides mobile data abroad.

Do I get a phone number with ArabSIM?

No. ArabSIM eSIMs are data-only. You can still call and message via VoIP apps such as WhatsApp or Telegram.

When does my eSIM plan start?

The validity period starts when your eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination – not when you install it.

Does an eSIM work without an internet connection?

You need Wi-Fi or mobile data once to install the eSIM. After that it works on its own.

Is an eSIM safe?

eSIM profiles are encrypted and can’t be removed and used in another phone like a stolen SIM card.

Does an eSIM drain my battery?

No more than a physical SIM. Using two lines at once can use slightly more power.

Can I reuse my eSIM on another trip?

Each eSIM plan is valid for one trip. For your next trip, simply buy a new eSIM plan.