Arrive · people search “SIM card Dubai airport”
SIM, then a proper number
Airport SIMs work for a week. Resident plans need ID. e& and du are the two networks.
Buy a tourist SIM or eSIM at DXB if you have no roaming. It is priced like an airport. After Emirates ID is moving, switch to a prepaid or post-paid from e& (Etisalat) or du in a mall. You must show ID. Number porting exists.
Coverage is not the issue in Dubai. Contracts, device instalments and forgotten auto-renewals are. Keep the tourist number alive until the bank SMS can land on the new one.
Practical notes, not official law. Confirm on ICP, MOHRE, RTA, KHDA and your employer before you act.