SIM registration: What you need to know
All you need to know about the 'My Number, My Identity' campaign
All mobile phone users in the UAE are required to reregister their numbers as part of a the TRA’s ‘My Number, My Identity’ campaign. Here’s vital information you need to know.
How do I know when to register my number?
- There are several staggered dates for registration, the first of which is today.
- Mobile phone users will receive an SMS telling them when they need to register by.
- If you have received an SMS advising you to register by today, you need to do so immediately or your service may be suspended.
- If you haven’t received an SMS, you don’t have to register just yet — but you can still register at any time.
What documents will I need?
- UAE nationals: An original and valid Emirates ID, or an original and valid UAE passport.
- GCC nationals: An original and valid Emirates ID, or an original and valid GCC passport, or an original and valid GCC ID.
- Expatriates and visitors: An original and valid Emirates ID, or an original and valid passport and visa.
Do I need to bring anything else?
You should also bring a clear photocopy of the document you intend to use. And if you have a registration form filled out in advance, all the better — but you can complete this form when registering your mobile phone. Doing so in advance simply saves time.
What if it’s a mobile belonging to a business or government entity?
- These numbers must also be registered. The following documents are required:
- An original and valid Establishment Card that is issued by Ministry of Interior (Immigration Office).
- An original and valid Power of Attorney.
- An original and valid ID and details of the authorised single point of contact.
Where do I register my SIM card?
You can register your card at any etisalat or du office. In addition, certain authorised outlets are also accepting registration details. According to du, these include authorised dealers including Axiom, Jumbo, Eros, Jacky’s, E-max, Plug-ins and more.
Can I speed up the registration?
- You can save time by printing and filling out the registration form before you go. These are available at the du and etisalat websites, or at any of their outlets, or at some commercial outlets or shops where mobile phones are sold.
- Bring a clear photo copy of your identification document as listed above.
- Bring the original document along with you as listed above.
Why do I have to register my line or renew my registration?
This is in line with the TRA’s policy regarding the registration requirements for consumer mobile customers to protect their rights and confidentiality and to avoid fraud cases.
My mobile service has been suspended and I keep receiving SMSes asking me to update my identification documents. How can I restore my mobile service?
If you have received SMSes asking you to update your identification documents and you haven’t done so before the provided deadline, your mobile service may get suspended. To restore your mobile service quickly, you must register your mobile phone using the documents above. The sooner you register, the sooner your service will be restored.
What will happen if I fail to register by the date mentioned in the SMS?
Your line will be suspended for a period of time. If you still to not register during the suspension period, your mobile line will be deactivated and you will not be able to claim back your number.
What is the difference between my mobile line’s validity period and registering my documents?
Your mobile SIM may have a validity period that needs regular renewal as specified in the terms and conditions of your plan. This is different than registering your identification documents in line with the TRA’s policy.
I am visiting the UAE on a visit visa, do I have to be a resident to register my line?
You can register your line with your valid UAE visa, including a visit visa. Simply visit any of the du or etisalat outlets, or certain registered sales outlet to register your line again.
Do I have to update and register my identification documents if I have not yet received an SMS?
If you have not received an SMS with your registration due date yet, your line will not be suspended. However, you can still register your line at your convenience.
Will I have to register my mobile phone in the future?
That is unlikely. The intent of the ‘My Number, My Identity’ campaign is to link your unique identity with you mobile phone. When your ID details are updated on renewal of residency visas or Emirates ID, your mobile phone details will be too.
Is there a cost to register my mobile phone?
No. It is free of charge.
Is there a limit on the number of phones I can register?
No. Every mobile phone must be registered, and you will be required to provide valid identification as required above to register.
Where can I get more information?
Visit and etisalat or du office, or more information is available on their websites.
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