Connectivity & eSIM for Every Destination

Recommended eSIM providers, regulatory notices where they exist, and the best plan for your trip length — covered per city, since restrictions and providers differ between countries.

Since July 2025, several travel services and reports have said that some international eSIM providers' websites and apps can't be reached from inside Turkey. A pre-installed eSIM may still work, but buying a new plan or renewing one may not be possible after arrival — so buy and install the plan before you travel. (This is based on multiple travel-service reports, not an official statement from BTK or a Turkish government body reviewed directly.)

Local SIM prices vary a lot between the airport and city branches, and airport deals are usually pricier; compare price and data allowance before buying. Local SIMs are usually unaffected by the access issue with some international eSIM providers' apps, since they're bought and activated locally.

Voice and video calls through apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime are blocked on local UAE networks (Etisalat/du); text messages usually work, but voice/video calls need a VPN or an international number from some eSIM providers. Multiple reports also indicate that buying or activating a new international eSIM after arriving in the UAE may be restricted; buying and installing the plan before you travel is preferred. (This is based on multiple travel and eSIM service reports, not an official statement from the UAE's Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, TDRA, reviewed directly.)

Local Etisalat/du SIMs are available at an airport kiosk (needs a passport and a valid visa) but at a much higher price than international eSIM providers (example: 14GB for about AED 239 at the airport versus much cheaper international offers for roughly the same amount); the better fit for those who need a real UAE number or a long stay.

No documented restrictions on internet voice/video calls in Thailand (unlike some Gulf countries) are currently known; this needs further confirmation in a later review (a general primary source, not a direct official check with Thailand's regulator, NBTC).

Local AIS/DTAC/True SIMs are available at the airport kiosk (passport required) usually at a higher price than international eSIM providers; best suited for a long stay or if you need a real local number.

No documented restrictions on internet voice/video calls (WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger) are currently known in Malaysia, unlike some Gulf countries; this is general information and needs a direct official confirmation from Malaysia's regulator (MCMC) in a later review.

Local Maxis/CelcomDigi/U Mobile SIMs are available at the airport and malls (passport required for registration); best suited for a long stay or if you need a real local number.

No known restrictions on internet voice/video calls in the United Kingdom; this is general information, unlike the restrictions common in some Gulf countries.

Buy and install your eSIM before you leave your departure airport, not after you land. Installation needs an internet connection, and in some destinations buying or renewing a plan from inside the country can fail. Keep your home number active as well, because many banks send verification messages only to the number registered with them.