Dubai Speed Test: DXB, Downtown, Marina – Plus VoIP Restrictions Watch

30 Oct 2025

If you’re planning a stopover or a week in the UAE, here’s what our latest dubai internet speed test mobile sweep actually found. We spent a full day running controlled tests across Dubai International Airport (DXB), Downtown (including Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa boulevard), and the Marina/JBR waterfront. We measured 5G/4G performance on the two major networks with multiple devices, indoors (malls/terminals) and outdoors (streets/beachfront). We also checked which VoIP and conferencing apps connect, ring, or fail on local networks, because in Dubai policy matters as much as signal.

Headline: Dubai’s 5G is blisteringly fast and widely available; indoor speeds in mega-malls are excellent but can show higher jitter; and several popular OTT VoIP calling apps remain restricted. Below you’ll find location-by-location results, practical traveller tips, and an open CSV dataset you can use for your own analysis. For more country-level snapshots and itineraries, explore our continuously updated Destinations.

What we tested (method in brief)

We ran repeatable, like-for-like tests between 09:00 and 22:00 local time on a weekday.

Devices: iPhone 15 Pro (5G SA/NSA), Google Pixel 8 (5G), both on recent firmware.
Profiles: One device on Etisalat by e& (roaming via an international eSIM), one on du (local SIM). Dual-SIM enabled; only one data line active per test run.
Measurements:
Speed: Download, upload, and latency using Ookla Speedtest and cross-checked with Cloudflare.
Signal: RSRP/RSRQ and 5G/4G indicator via field test menus.
VoIP: Attempted calls on WhatsApp, FaceTime (audio/video), Skype, Telegram, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Webex.
Protocol: Three runs per spot per carrier, median reported. If 5G unavailable, noted fallback to 4G.

Pro tip: To avoid dual-SIM interference, disable “Allow Mobile Data Switching” on iOS and set a single data line active during testing or heavy use.

TL;DR findings

DXB airport: 5G widely live airside and landside. Median downloads 320–780 Mbps; uploads 40–95 Mbps; 20–35 ms latency. Congestion spikes near crowded gates reduce throughput but not coverage.
Downtown Dubai: Outdoors on the Boulevard and near Burj Khalifa, 5G is extremely fast (often 600–900+ Mbps). Indoors at Dubai Mall, speeds remain strong (200–500 Mbps) but jitter climbs during peak shopping hours.
Dubai Marina/JBR: Consistent 5G coverage, especially outdoors along The Walk and beach; 400–850 Mbps typical. Indoors at Marina Mall, 180–350 Mbps with occasional handovers between indoor nodes.
VoIP: OTT calling restrictions persist. WhatsApp, Skype, and Telegram voice/video calls generally fail to establish. FaceTime mixed: messaging works; audio/video call setup inconsistent and frequently blocked. Zoom/Teams/Meet/Webex meetings worked reliably.
Practical: You don’t need a VPN for streaming or maps; do not rely on a VPN to bypass VoIP restrictions. For onward travel beyond the UAE, consider preloading regional profiles like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America.

Location-by-location results

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Test windows: 09:15–10:30 (T3 airside Concourse B), 21:00–22:00 (T1 landside arrivals).

Airside (T3 Concourse B)
5G status: Strong. Median -85 dBm RSRP.
Etisalat by e& (roaming eSIM): 620 Mbps down / 90 Mbps up / 23 ms
du (local SIM): 540 Mbps down / 78 Mbps up / 27 ms
Notes: Peak crowds near popular gates dropped mid-run speeds to ~300 Mbps; recoveries quick. Latency stable <30 ms.
VoIP: WhatsApp and Skype calls rang but failed to connect; FaceTime audio/video failed to establish; Zoom and Teams connected first time with good audio stability.
Landside (T1 Arrivals Hall)
5G status: Live, occasional 4G anchor during movement.
Etisalat by e&: 380/62/29 ms
du: 320/55/31 ms
Notes: Movement and reflective surfaces increase jitter; still easily sufficient for HD streaming and large app updates.
VoIP: Same behaviour as airside. Messaging apps fully functional.

Pro tip: If you need to download offline maps or series episodes, do it airside at DXB—throughput is more than enough and saves hotel Wi‑Fi hassle.

Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall)

Outdoors (Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard)
5G status: Excellent macro coverage.
Etisalat by e&: 890/95/19 ms
du: 760/88/22 ms
Notes: Near-line-of-sight to street-level 5G nodes produced the day’s fastest results. Ideal spot for big cloud syncs.
VoIP: OTT VoIP blocked as per policy; enterprise conferencing worked (Teams/Zoom).
Indoors (Dubai Mall – Fashion Avenue and Food Court)
5G status: Strong indoor systems; occasional anchor to 4G when deep inside.
Etisalat by e&: 420/58/28 ms (Fashion Ave), 260/47/35 ms (Food Court peak hour)
du: 360/52/30 ms (Fashion Ave), 210/43/37 ms (Food Court peak hour)
Notes: Throughput remains high, but jitter rises at mealtimes. App downloads and UHD social uploads still quick.
VoIP: WhatsApp/Skype/Telegram calling blocked; FaceTime inconsistent (setup attempts time out). Zoom/Teams fine even in busy areas.

Checklist: Getting the best indoor speeds - Toggle Airplane Mode on/off to re-register on the nearest indoor 5G node. - If speeds tank, lock your device to 5G/Auto rather than LTE-only (avoid forced 4G). - Stand near atriums or open corridors where signal paths are clearer.

Dubai Marina / JBR

Outdoors (The Walk at JBR and beachfront)
5G status: Consistent. Slightly wind-exposed but strong signal.
Etisalat by e&: 710/82/21 ms (The Walk), 650/75/23 ms (beachfront)
du: 580/70/24 ms (The Walk), 540/66/26 ms (beachfront)
Notes: Great for tethering laptops; low latency and high uplink make cloud docs and photo backups painless.
VoIP: OTT calling blocked; conferencing apps worked smoothly.
Indoors (Dubai Marina Mall)
5G status: Good, with more frequent handovers between indoor nodes.
Etisalat by e&: 330/54/29 ms
du: 280/49/33 ms
Notes: Still fast; occasional spikes in latency during handover. Browsing and streaming unaffected.
VoIP: Same restrictions as elsewhere.

Indoor malls vs outdoors: what changes and why

Power and path loss: Outdoor street-level small cells and macro sites provide near line-of-sight 5G, hence the 700–900 Mbps peaks. Inside malls, signal traverses complex spaces; dedicated indoor systems keep speeds high but increase jitter.
Congestion dynamics: Malls see highly correlated usage (lunch, evenings), so you’ll notice more variability than outdoors where users are dispersed.
Uplink realities: Uplink is consistently lower (40–95 Mbps). It’s still ample for 1080p live streams, multi‑GB photo uploads, and conferencing; heavy creators should prefer outdoor spots for the highest, steadiest uplink.

Pro tips - Need to upload big files? Step just outside mall entrances or onto open boulevards. - For stable calls, prefer enterprise conferencing apps over OTT voice/video messengers. - Disable low-power/battery saver during heavy uploads; it can throttle radios and background tasks.

VoIP restrictions watch (February 2025)

UAE policies restrict many over‑the‑top VoIP services. Behaviour can vary by network and period, but our current observations are:

WhatsApp calling: Rings but fails to establish media; messaging works perfectly.
Skype and Telegram calls: Typically fail to connect; messaging OK.
FaceTime: Inconsistent and often blocked for call setup; iMessage works.
Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Webex: Meetings connected and held steady over both 5G and 4G with audio/video stability comparable to Europe/US.
VPNs: Not required for general browsing/streaming. Do not rely on a VPN to bypass local VoIP restrictions; service availability and legality can vary.

If your travel continues to regions without such restrictions, consider preloading a regional plan like Esim United States or multi‑country options such as Esim Western Europe, Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain.

Practical tips for mobile data in Dubai

Step-by-step on arrival 1. Before landing: Enable data roaming for your eSIM in Settings; set your home line to “no data”. 2. At the gate: Once devices are allowed, toggle Airplane Mode off and wait for network registration; ensure “5G Auto/On” is enabled. 3. APN settings: Most eSIMs configure automatically; if not, check your eSIM provider’s APN. Avoid random APN changes—can break MMS and tethering. 4. Test quickly: Run a single speed test to confirm 5G; don’t loop tests (they consume lots of data). 5. Conferencing: If you must take a call, use Teams/Zoom/Meet rather than OTT messengers.

Data-saving moves that actually help - Download offline maps while on fast airport 5G. - Enable “Low Data Mode” for background apps but whitelist cloud storage if you need auto-uploads. - For hotspots, cap your laptop OS updates and pause cloud syncs to avoid bill shock.

Travelling as a team or filming? - Aggregate needs can be high. Our For Business team can provision pooled eSIM data and prioritised support. - Partners and resellers can coordinate campaigns via our Partner Hub.

Heading onwards after Dubai? - For US/Canada legs, load Esim North America or country packs like Esim United States. - For Europe, cover multiple countries with Esim Western Europe or pick national bundles (Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain).

Open dataset (CSV) and methodology

We share median results in CSV form for quick analysis. Each row is a median of three runs.

CSV (comma-separated) location,area,indoor_outdoor,network,radio,download_mbps,upload_mbps,latency_ms,datetime_local,voip_blocked_ott,conferencing_ok DXB,T3 Airside,Indoor,Etisalat,5G,620,90,23,2025-02-12 09:35,Yes,Yes DXB,T3 Airside,Indoor,du,5G,540,78,27,2025-02-12 09:50,Yes,Yes DXB,T1 Arrivals,Indoor,Etisalat,5G,380,62,29,2025-02-12 21:05,Yes,Yes DXB,T1 Arrivals,Indoor,du,5G,320,55,31,2025-02-12 21:15,Yes,Yes Downtown,Boulevard,Outdoor,Etisalat,5G,890,95,19,2025-02-12 12:10,Yes,Yes Downtown,Boulevard,Outdoor,du,5G,760,88,22,2025-02-12 12:20,Yes,Yes Downtown,Dubai Mall,Indoor,Etisalat,5G,420,58,28,2025-02-12 14:00,Yes,Yes Downtown,Dubai Mall,Indoor,du,5G,360,52,30,2025-02-12 14:10,Yes,Yes Marina,The Walk,Outdoor,Etisalat,5G,710,82,21,2025-02-12 17:00,Yes,Yes Marina,The Walk,Outdoor,du,5G,580,70,24,2025-02-12 17:10,Yes,Yes Marina,Beachfront,Outdoor,Etisalat,5G,650,75,23,2025-02-12 17:25,Yes,Yes Marina,Beachfront,Outdoor,du,5G,540,66,26,2025-02-12 17:35,Yes,Yes Marina,Marina Mall,Indoor,Etisalat,5G,330,54,29,2025-02-12 18:20,Yes,Yes Marina,Marina Mall,Indoor,du,5G,280,49,33,2025-02-12 18:30,Yes,Yes

Notes on method - Each median derived from three consecutive tests, device stationary, screen on, single active data line. - Apps: Ookla Speedtest; cross-check with Cloudflare one-run sanity check. - Devices: iPhone 15 Pro (iOS 18), Pixel 8 (Android 14); results between devices within normal variance. - We did not use a VPN. All tests on public network conditions. - VoIP judgement: “OTT blocked” when call signalling completes (ring) but media fails or setup times out. “Conferencing OK” when a 2–5 minute test call sustained A/V with MOS subjectively good and no major drops.

Caveats - Networks change. Small cells can be added, retuned, or congested differently day-to-day. - Your results may vary based on device, plan, and exact location. Treat this as a snapshot, not a guarantee.

FAQ

What’s the typical mobile speed in Dubai right now?
In our dubai internet speed test mobile runs, we saw 5G downloads typically 300–900 Mbps depending on spot and time, with uploads 40–95 Mbps and sub‑35 ms latency.
Is 5G everywhere in Dubai?
Not literally everywhere, but coverage is extensive across DXB, Downtown, and the Marina/JBR corridor. You may fall back to 4G in deep indoor pockets or while moving, but it’s still fast.
Do WhatsApp or FaceTime calls work in Dubai?
Messaging works. However, OTT voice/video calling (WhatsApp, Skype, Telegram, and often FaceTime) is generally restricted and fails to establish media. Enterprise conferencing apps (Zoom, Teams, Meet, Webex) worked for us.
Will my international eSIM work in the UAE?
Most reputable travel eSIMs roam onto local networks without issues. Activate before landing, and ensure roaming is on. If you need pooled data or multiple profiles for a team, see For Business.
How much data should I budget per day?
Casual use (maps, socials, rideshares): 1–2 GB/day. Heavy creators or frequent hotspotting: 3–5 GB/day. Continuous 4K uploads or cloud syncs can exceed that; schedule big uploads for outdoor 5G sweet spots.
Can I tether my laptop?
Yes. Both carriers allowed hotspotting in our tests. Expect excellent performance outdoors and slightly higher latency indoors. Watch OS auto‑updates and cloud syncs to avoid unexpected data burn.

Where next

Browse more field tests and country guides on Destinations.
Planning a multi-city trip or a team event? Our For Business solutions simplify procurement, pooling, and support.
Partners and resellers: opportunities and resources live in our Partner Hub.
Flying onward? Preload Esim Western Europe or Esim North America, or go city-specific with Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain.

Next step: See current country coverage options and speed notes on Destinations.

Read more blogs

Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

eSIM Stuck on “Activating” on Android: 12 Fixes That Work

Travelling with a new eSIM and seeing your Android stuck on “Activating”? You’re not alone. The “esim activating android” loop usually points to a radio, settings, or carrier-service cache issue—not a dead plan. The good news: most activations can be salvaged with a few practical resets and checks you can do in minutes, even at the airport. This guide prioritises fixes that work on the road: cycling Airplane mode, resetting network settings, verifying APNs, and clearing Google Carrier Services cache. You’ll also find steps to re-add the eSIM safely, and quick checks for roaming and network selection.Menus vary slightly by device (Pixel, Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus), but the flow is similar across Android 12–14. Keep your eSIM QR or activation code handy, and stay on reliable Wi‑Fi while activating. For country-ready plans, see our regional pages such as [Esim United States], [Esim France], [Esim Italy], [Esim Spain], [Esim Western Europe] or browse all [Destinations]. Business travellers can also streamline deployments via [For Business].Start with these quick checksBefore deep troubleshooting, confirm the basics:Your device supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.Strong, stable Wi‑Fi during installation (avoid captive portals in airports/hotels).Date & time set to Automatic.VPN and Private DNS disabled: Settings > Network & Internet > VPN (Off) and Private DNS (Automatic/Off).Android OS up to date; restart after updating.You are in a covered country/region for your plan.If you carry multiple lines, your travel eSIM is enabled and set as the data line.Pro tip: Some travel eSIMs only activate when you’re physically in the destination country and data roaming is ON. If you’re headed to the US or Canada, check [Esim North America]. For Europe, see [Esim Western Europe].12 fixes for an eSIM stuck on “Activating” (Android)Try these in order. Test after each step.1) Cycle Airplane mode (the fastest radio reset)Pull down Quick Settings.Turn on Airplane mode for 20–30 seconds.Turn it off and wait 1–2 minutes.Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs and check the eSIM status.Why it works: it forces a fresh network registration without a full reboot.2) Full restartHold Power > Restart.After reboot, wait 2 minutes before opening any apps.Check eSIM status again.Pro tip: If Wi‑Fi auto-connects to a weak network, temporarily forget it and use a stronger Wi‑Fi or mobile hotspot.3) Ensure data roaming is ON for the eSIMSettings > Network & Internet > SIMs.Tap your travel eSIM.Toggle Data roaming ON.Set Preferred network type to 5G/4G (LTE) or 4G/3G/2G (Auto), not 2G-only.Many international eSIMs require roaming ON even in the country of use.4) Manually select a network, then go back to AutomaticSettings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Network.Turn off Automatically select network.Pick the listed partner network (e.g., Orange, AT&T, Vodafone) and wait 1–2 minutes.If registration succeeds, switch back to Automatic.This nudges the device to register with an allowed partner when auto-selection stalls.5) Verify and correct APN settingsEven during activation, Android may need the correct APN to complete data attachment.Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [your eSIM] > Access Point Names.Compare with the APN provided by your eSIM supplier. Typical fields: - Name: any (e.g., Simology) - APN: as supplied (case-sensitive) - Username/Password: often blank - MCC/MNC: auto-filled; don’t change unless instructed - APN type: default,supl (no spaces) - Authentication: None/PAP per instructionsSave, select the new APN, toggle Mobile data OFF/ON, then recheck activation.Pro tip: If APNs are greyed out, remove any Device Policy/Work Profile temporarily or contact your admin (see [For Business]).6) Clear Google Carrier Services cache (and storage if needed)Carrier Services can hold stale configuration that blocks activation.Settings > Apps > See all apps.Tap Carrier Services.Tap Storage & cache > Clear cache.Try activation. If still stuck: Clear storage, then restart the phone.Also open the Play Store and update Carrier Services to the latest version (see Fix 8).7) Toggle Mobile data and Preferred network typeSettings > Network & Internet > Internet.Toggle Mobile data OFF, wait 10 seconds, then ON.Go to SIMs > [your eSIM] > Preferred network type and switch between 5G/4G and 4G-only. Wait 1 minute after each change.This triggers a new PDP context and often completes activation.8) Update Google Carrier Services and Google Play servicesOpen Google Play Store.Search “Carrier Services” and “Google Play services” and tap Update if available.Restart the phone.Outdated components can cause provisioning loops.9) Reset network settings (safe but thorough)Settings > System > Reset options.Tap Reset Wi‑Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.Confirm (this forgets saved Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth pairings, APNs; it doesn’t erase photos/apps).Reconnect to Wi‑Fi and check eSIM activation.This clears hidden radio and APN conflicts that commonly cause the “Activating” hang.10) Disable SIM auto-switching and set the eSIM as the data SIMOn dual-SIM phones, auto data switching can interfere.Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs.Turn OFF “Switch data automatically” or “Auto data switching”.Set your travel eSIM as Preferred SIM for Mobile data.Temporarily disable the physical SIM if needed.Re-enable your usual SIM after the eSIM is active and roaming correctly.11) Remove and re-add the eSIM profile (with caution)Only do this if you have the QR/activation code and your plan allows reinstallation.Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [your eSIM] > Delete/Remove.Restart the phone.Settings > Add eSIM > Use QR code or Enter activation code.Stay on strong Wi‑Fi. Keep data roaming ON after install.Pro tip: Some plans have limited re-downloads. If unsure, confirm via your provider or our [Partner Hub] if you manage eSIMs at scale.12) Check date/time, Private DNS, and VPN one more timeSettings > System > Date & time > Set Automatically (use network-provided time).Settings > Network & Internet > Private DNS > Automatic or Off (not a custom hostname).Settings > Network & Internet > VPN > Disconnect/Remove any VPN.Re-try activation on a different Wi‑Fi network or a mobile hotspot.Even minor clock drift or a strict DNS/VPN policy can block provisioning.After activation: quick test checklistOnce the eSIM shows Active:Toggle Mobile data OFF/ON.Turn Wi‑Fi OFF and load a fast site (e.g., a map).Keep Data roaming ON.Confirm the correct APN is selected.If data is slow or intermittent, try 4G-only temporarily and re-test.If you’re travelling in the US, expect 3G shutdowns—ensure 4G/5G is enabled. See [Esim United States] or broader [Esim North America] options if you plan to cross borders. For multi-country EU trips, [Esim Western Europe] covers popular routes including [Esim France], [Esim Spain], and [Esim Italy].Prevention checklist before you flyVerify device eSIM support and unlock status with your original carrier.Save or print your QR/activation code offline.Know your plan’s activation trigger (on install vs on first connection in-country).Record your device EID and IMEI: Settings > About phone.Update Android, Carrier Services, and OEM apps before departure.If managing teams, pre-stage profiles using [For Business] or via the [Partner Hub].When to contact support (and what to include)If you’re still stuck after all 12 fixes, reach out with:Screenshots of the eSIM status page and any error messages.Your device make/model and Android version.eSIM ICCID (or last 4 digits) and your EID/IMEI.Location (city/country) and tested networks.APN values in use and whether data roaming is ON.Steps you’ve already tried from this guide.This speeds up diagnosis and avoids repetitive back-and-forth.FAQQ: Why is my “esim activating android” stuck at 0% or “Setting up mobile plan”?A: It’s usually a radio registration or provisioning cache issue. Start with Airplane mode, enable data roaming, confirm APN, clear Carrier Services cache, then try network reset.Q: Do I need Wi‑Fi to activate an eSIM?A: Strong Wi‑Fi is recommended for downloading the profile. After install, the first network attachment can use mobile data, but poor Wi‑Fi can stall the process.Q: Should data roaming be ON even if I’m in the destination country?A: Yes. Most travel eSIMs rely on roaming flags even in-country, especially in the US and EU. Keep data roaming ON for the eSIM line.Q: Will resetting network settings delete my eSIM?A: No. “Reset Wi‑Fi, mobile & Bluetooth” does not remove eSIM profiles. It clears saved Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth pairings, and APN customisations.Q: Can I move my eSIM to another phone if activation fails?A: Only if your plan allows re-downloads. Many travel eSIMs are single-use per EID. Check plan terms or contact support before deleting the profile.Q: I installed before flying and it won’t activate abroad. What now?A: In the destination, turn data roaming ON, cycle Airplane mode, attempt manual network selection, verify APN, then clear Carrier Services cache. Some plans only fully activate once you’re physically in-region.Next step: Choose the right plan for where you’re headed. Explore country and regional options on our [Destinations] page, including [Esim United States], [Esim France], [Esim Spain], [Esim Italy], and [Esim Western Europe].

30 Oct 2025

Kids’ Phones on Trips: Parental Controls & Data Budgets That Work

Travelling with children is easier when you know their phones are safe, affordable, and set up for the way you move. This guide shows you how to put robust parental controls in place, limit data costs, and keep location sharing working—without turning holiday into a fight about screen time. We’ll cover Apple Family Sharing and Google Family Link, content filters that travel with you, spending approval, and how to build a travel profile that fits your itinerary. We’ll also show you how to ring‑fence mobile data with an eSIM so a child’s usage can’t spill into your main plan. If you’re heading to multiple countries, see region plans like Esim Western Europe and Esim North America; for single-country trips, check Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy or Esim Spain. For route ideas and connectivity notes, browse our Destinations.Why parental controls matter more when you travelNew networks and roaming can trigger surprise data bills.Time‑zone shifts and long transport days can blow up schedules.Public Wi‑Fi often needs extra privacy guardrails.Kids need maps and messaging to be reachable, but not unlimited apps.Purchases may default to your home app store or slip through unfamiliar settings.A travel‑ready set‑up balances freedom and guardrails: the right people can reach each other, core travel apps work, and everything else is limited by time, content rating, and data budget.Parental controls travel set-up: step by stepApple (Family Sharing + Screen Time)Create a child Apple ID: - On your iPhone: Settings > [your name] > Family Sharing > Add Member > Create Child Account. Follow the prompts.Turn on Screen Time for the child: - Settings > Family > select child > Screen Time > Turn On Screen Time.Set Downtime and App Limits: - Downtime: set local sleep hours. Tip: allow phone/Maps during travel days. - App Limits: categories like Social, Games; add a “Travel” exception for Maps, Translate, Wallet, airline apps.Set Content & Privacy Restrictions: - Content ratings: set country/region-appropriate ratings (films, apps, music). - Web: limit adult websites or allow only specific sites kids need for school or itinerary.Manage Communications Safety: - Communication Limits: choose who can contact during allowed time and Downtime. - Enable sensitive content warnings if available in your region.Location sharing and Find My: - Settings > Family > select child > Location Sharing > Share My Location. - In Find My: share your location mutually; set notifications for arrival/departure points (hotel, museum).Payments and purchases: - Family Sharing > Purchase Sharing > Ask to Buy (require approval for downloads and in‑app purchases). - Consider gift card credit for a capped holiday budget.Prepare the travel eSIM line: - On the child’s phone: Settings > Mobile Service > Add eSIM (scan the Simology QR). - Label it “Trip”. Set Mobile Data line to the Trip eSIM; turn off “Allow Mobile Data Switching” so usage can’t move to your home line.Pro tips (Apple): - Low Data Mode: Settings > Mobile Data > Data Mode > Low Data Mode. - Per‑app mobile data: Settings > Mobile Data > scroll to apps; toggle off mobile data for high‑usage apps. - Turn off Wi‑Fi Assist to prevent unexpected mobile fallback.Android (Google Family Link)Install and link: - On your phone, install Family Link (parent). On the child’s phone, set up or sign into their Google account. Link the account via Family Link.Set app approvals and filters: - Play Store controls: set content maturity, require parent approval for downloads and in‑app purchases. - Chrome: enable SafeSearch and site filters; consider whitelisting essentials for younger kids. - YouTube: use YouTube Kids or supervised YouTube with age‑appropriate settings.Set screen time and schedules: - Daily limits by app/category; Bedtime aligned to destination time zone.Manage location: - Family Link > Location > See child’s device; ensure device location, Google Location Services, and Find My Device are on.Data safeguards: - Settings > Network & Internet > Data Saver: On. - Data warning/limit: set a monthly cap aligned to your plan. - Per‑app data usage: restrict background data for non‑essential apps.Prepare the travel eSIM/SIM: - Insert/activate the Trip eSIM. Set it as Preferred SIM for mobile data. - Disable “Auto data switching” if present to stop the phone hopping to the home line.Pro tips (Android): - Download offline maps in Google Maps. - Use “Pause app” for time‑sinks you don’t want on travel days. - Pin key travel apps to the home screen for quick access.Content filters that travel wellApp stores:Apple: Content & Privacy > Content Restrictions > Apps; set to age rating suitable for the child.Android: Play Store > Family > Parental controls; set filtering by PEGI/age.Browsers:Apple: Limit Adult Websites or Allowed Websites Only; add airline, hotel, and school sites as needed.Android: Chrome > SafeSearch on; consider supervised account restrictions.Video:Apple: Restrict TV programmes and films to age level; block explicit music/lyrics.Android: Use supervised YouTube settings; disable autoplay to reduce data use.Messaging/social:Allow core messaging for coordination; set Communication Limits and app‑specific limits so social doesn’t swallow the data pool.Data budgets that actually work on the roadThe most reliable way to control costs is to isolate travel data on its own plan and cap usage at the source.Give the child a dedicated travel plan - Activate a child‑specific eSIM and select it as the only line for mobile data. - Choose a bundle that matches your itinerary. Examples:USA trips: Esim United StatesFrance city breaks: Esim FranceItaly holidays: Esim ItalySpain half‑term: Esim SpainMulti‑country itineraries: Esim Western Europe or Esim North AmericaSet OS‑level data limits - iPhone: Low Data Mode; disable Background App Refresh; per‑app mobile data off for streamers. - Android: Data Saver; set monthly data warning and hard limit; restrict background data for heavy apps.Create a simple allowance rule - Agree a daily or trip‑total data allowance (e.g., 500 MB/day). - Do a quick morning check of “Mobile Data Usage” and adjust if needed.Keep maps and tickets offline - Download offline maps, boarding passes, and playlists on Wi‑Fi to prevent mobile spikes.Avoid hidden drains - Turn off Wi‑Fi Assist/Adaptive Connectivity that auto‑falls back to mobile. - Disable automatic cloud photo backups on mobile data.Location sharing and safety check‑insShare locations both ways: Children trust controls more when they can also see you.Set place alerts: Hotel, campsite, museum exit—get a ping if someone leaves or arrives.Make a simple check‑in routine:Morning: “Phone charged, data on, location on.”Midday: Quick message if plans change.Evening: Downtime kicks in after final check‑in.Pro tips: - Add emergency contacts to the child’s phone with local numbers where relevant. - Teach kids how to show their digital boarding pass, hotel address, and insurance contact offline.Build a travel profile that keeps the good stuff workingCreate a “Travel Mode” that loosens what you need and tightens everything else.Allow during Downtime:Maps/Navigation, Wallet/Pay, airline/rail apps, Translate, your family chat app, Camera.Restrict or block:Video streaming, large social apps, tethering, cloud backups on mobile.Home screen hygiene:Put allowed travel apps on page 1; move time‑sinks to a folder or hide from Home Screen.Time‑zone aware schedules:Re‑set Bedtime/Downtime on arrival so limits feel consistent.Payment controls and spending limitsAsk‑to‑Buy / Approvals:Apple: enable Ask to Buy for all purchases and downloads.Google Play: require approval for purchases and in‑app buys.Prepaid allowance:Load a small gift card balance to the child’s account for souvenirs and travel games; when it’s gone, it’s gone.Disable in‑app purchases in key apps:Apple: Content & Privacy > iTunes & App Store Purchases.Android: Play Store > Require authentication for purchases.Store region and payment:Avoid switching app store regions mid‑trip. Stick to home region to keep controls consistent.On‑trip checklist (10 minutes, first day in country)Confirm the “Trip” eSIM is the only active Mobile Data line.Toggle on Data Saver / Low Data Mode.Verify location sharing works and place alerts are set for hotel/meeting points.Test essential apps on mobile data: Maps, Translate, airline/rail, your family chat.Connect to hotel Wi‑Fi; download offline maps and tickets; auto‑backup photos on Wi‑Fi only.Reconfirm Downtime and App Limits match local time.Show your child how to check their own data usage and battery.Troubleshooting common issuesData vanishes too fast:Check for app updates or photo backups on mobile; disable.Audit per‑app usage; block mobile data for the top two offenders.Can’t download apps abroad:Ask‑to‑Buy pending? Approve from the parent device.On flaky Wi‑Fi, temporarily allow downloads over mobile—then switch back.Location not updating:Ensure Location Services and mobile data are on, and low‑power modes aren’t disabling background location for maps/safety apps.Kids need more time/data today:Use a one‑time 30–60 minute extension in Screen Time or Family Link; don’t change the baseline rule.Planning multiple devices or group travel?Families running several child lines benefit from shared data visibility and predictable bundles. If you manage a school trip or youth team, see our solutions For Business for centralised purchasing and support.Travel agents and tour providers can offer pre‑configured child‑safe eSIMs; explore our Partner Hub.FAQsHow early should I set up parental controls before a trip?Do it 3–5 days before departure. You’ll catch any issues on home Wi‑Fi and can pre‑download maps and media.Do controls still work if my child turns off mobile data?Screen time and app limits apply regardless of data. Location sharing and approvals need connectivity, so keep a small data allowance active or rely on regular Wi‑Fi check‑ins.What’s the simplest way to cap data?Put the child on a dedicated travel eSIM, set it as the only Mobile Data line, and enable OS‑level data limits. When the bundle runs out, usage stops.Should I use a VPN on public Wi‑Fi?A reputable VPN can add privacy on open networks. At minimum, use HTTPS sites/apps and avoid sensitive logins on open Wi‑Fi.How do I keep essential apps working during Downtime?Add Maps, Wallet, airline/rail, and your family chat to “Always Allowed” (Apple) or set app‑specific exceptions (Family Link).What if we’re visiting several countries in one trip?Choose a regional plan like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America so you don’t juggle multiple SIMs. Check coverage notes in our Destinations pages.Next step: Choose the right travel plan for your itinerary—start with our region and country guides on Destinations.

30 Oct 2025