A significant growth in tourism, especially during festivals and national holidays are leading to a spike in the adoption of eSIMs in the MENA region, posting a 20 percent rise last year, an industry report said.
The report by Yesim, a leading global provider of eSIM solutions, said eSIM technology is projected to power 33 percent of all smartphone connections in the MENA region this year, which is projected to jump to 68 percent by 2030.
In the first half of 2024, Dubai is estimated to have welcomed 9.31 million international overnight visitors – a 9 percent increase from the 8.55 million visitors in 2023.
Dubai also continues to enhance its appeal through innovative initiatives and collaborations, such as a Real Madrid-themed park and Hans Zimmer’s Sounds of Dubai, a musical masterpiece that encapsulates the city’s vibrant spirit, amplify its global appeal.
Shopping is a key attraction for Dubai tourists, with the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), held from December 6, 2024, to January 12, estimated to have attracted millions of visitors.
“Yesim also saw an increase in eSIM purchases during this period,” the report said.
The report showed that eSIM demand surges by 6–12 percent around major holidays like Ramadan and the Islamic New Year, reflecting travellers’ needs for seamless connectivity.
“Ramadan [2024] saw 20,665 orders, exceeding the average pre-holiday volume of 19,453.
Similarly, during Eid orders held steady at 8,648 before the holiday and 8,649 during it, indicating last-minute planning.
“Post-Eid numbers jumped to 10,830 – a 20 percent increase – likely due to extended travel, renewed connections, and holiday promotions,” said Dmitri Verbovski, Founder & CEO at Yesim.
While Eid-al-Adha showed modest growth, the Islamic New Year purchases increased from 10,334 before the holiday to 11,592 during the celebration – an 11.7 percent rise, the report said.
The report said as of 2024, the MENA region has 197 million eSIM smartphone connections, compared to 394 million traditional SIM connections.
Travellers increasingly choose eSIM technology for leisure and business trips, attracted by its seamless cross-border connectivity, cost efficiency, convenience, and enhanced security, it said.
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