Dubai: Are you looking for a better plan to go with your existing mobile number? Consumers in the UAE have the option of switching telecom operators on the same mobile number through Mobile Number Portability (MNP).
In 2013, porting services were launched in the UAE, and Etisalat and du, the two main providers in the country, have made it relatively easy for their customers to switch from one provider to the other, whether that’s to get more attractive data plans or lower international calling rates.
Despite the fact that porting from one provider to another is free, you would need to consider the following before making the decision:
- Find out what the termination fees are with your service provider if you have a contract. Based on the announcement by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in January, regardless of the number of months remaining on your contract, you would have to pay one month’s fee as an early termination fee.
- To avoid losing your remaining balance if you are a pre-paid customer, TRA advises you to use your current balance before moving your number to another provider.
- In the case where your mobile phone device was purchased from your telecom provider as part of a contract, you would need to pay any remaining charges until you are able to port your number.
Switching from du to Etisalat
It is necessary to fill out an application form to request the porting of a number from du to Etisalat.
The form is also available online here: https://www.etisalat.ae/en/c/mobile/switch-to-etisalat-mobile.jsp
Fee: There is no service charge
Documents required
- Valid Emirates ID
- The following documents would be required in case of a post-paid plan:
- Stamped salary certificate
- Vehicle licence
- Bank/online statement for three months
- Last month’s utility bill with address
- Tenancy/ownership contract
- Ministry of Labour contract
How long will the process take?
The porting process is completed within one working day. The new SIM card will be provided to you once you submit an application to port the number. As soon as the number has been shifted to Etisalat, you will need to replace the SIM card and restart your phone to activate the service.
Switching from Etisalat to du
You can submit a request at the following places:
- Du shop
- Du authorised partners shop
- Online – https://www.du.ae/personal
Fee: There is no fee for porting requests. You would need to pay a one-time activation fee of Dh20 for a pre-paid ‘Pay as you go’ plan. There is no activation fee for post-paid plans.
Documents needed
- Passport with a valid visa or Emirates ID card.
- The following documents would be required in case of a post-paid plan:
- UAE credit card.
- Latest utility bill.
- Current tenancy contract.
- Salary certificate.
- The current pay slip, signed and stamped.
A confirmation SMS will be sent to your current SIM within one working day if you submit your request online.
Du will then deliver the new SIM card to your home or office. Du will require your Emirates ID for verification of your identity.