Ajman

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Comprehensive Guide to Telecommunication Services in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Ajman, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, offers modern and reliable telecommunication services. The telecommunications sector in the UAE is highly regulated and provides excellent infrastructure for mobile, internet, and landline services. Below is a detailed guide to help visitors and immigrants navigate telecommunication services in Ajman.

1. Service Providers in Ajman

There are two main telecommunication service providers in Ajman:

  1. Etisalat (Emirates Telecommunications Corporation)

    • The largest and oldest telecom provider in the UAE.
    • Known for its extensive coverage and high-quality services.
    • Website: www.etisalat.ae

  2. du (Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company)

    • A newer provider offering competitive pricing and innovative packages.
    • Popular among residents for its customer-centric approach.
    • Website: www.du.ae

Both providers offer a wide range of services, including mobile, internet, and landline connections.

2. Types of Services Offered

a. Mobile Services

  • Prepaid Plans: Ideal for visitors and short-term residents. These plans allow you to pay as you go, with no long-term commitment.
  • Postpaid Plans: Suitable for long-term residents. These plans require a monthly subscription and often come with bundled services (e.g., data, calls, and SMS).
  • Tourist SIM Cards: Special prepaid SIM cards designed for tourists, offering short-term validity and affordable international calling rates.

b. Internet Services

  • Home Broadband: High-speed internet services are available through fiber-optic connections. Packages often include unlimited data and are bundled with TV and landline services.
  • Mobile Data: Both prepaid and postpaid mobile plans include data packages for on-the-go internet access.
  • Wi-Fi Hotspots: Public Wi-Fi is available in many areas, including malls, cafes, and hotels. Some hotspots are free, while others require a subscription.

c. Landline Services

  • Landline connections are typically bundled with home internet and TV services. They are commonly used for local and international calls.

d. TV Services

  • Both Etisalat and du offer IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) services, which include a variety of local and international channels.

3. Costs

a. Mobile Services

  • Prepaid SIM Cards: Starting from AED 50, with recharge options ranging from AED 20 to AED 500.
  • Postpaid Plans: Monthly fees range from AED 125 to AED 500+, depending on the package (data, calls, and SMS included).
  • Tourist SIM Cards: Prices start at AED 49, with validity ranging from 7 to 28 days.

b. Internet Services

  • Home Broadband: Monthly costs range from AED 250 to AED 1,000+, depending on speed (50 Mbps to 1 Gbps) and additional services (e.g., TV and landline).
  • Mobile Data: Data add-ons for prepaid and postpaid plans start at AED 25 for 1 GB.

c. Landline Services

  • Typically included in home internet packages. Standalone landline services cost around AED 30 to AED 50 per month.

d. TV Services

  • Bundled with internet and landline services. Packages start at AED 300 per month.

4. Subscription Procedures

To subscribe to any telecommunication service in Ajman, follow these steps:

a. Mobile Services

  1. Visit an authorized store or kiosk of Etisalat or du (available in malls, airports, and city centers).
  2. Choose a prepaid, postpaid, or tourist SIM card plan.
  3. Provide the required documents (see below).
  4. Complete the registration process and activate your SIM card.

b. Internet and Landline Services

  1. Visit an Etisalat or du store or apply online through their websites.
  2. Select a package that suits your needs.
  3. Provide the required documents.
  4. Schedule an installation appointment (for home broadband and landline services).

5. Required Documents

To subscribe to telecommunication services in Ajman, you will need the following:

  • For Residents:
    • Emirates ID (mandatory for all residents in the UAE).
    • Passport with a valid UAE residence visa.
    • Proof of address (e.g., tenancy contract or utility bill) for home services.
  • For Visitors:
    • Passport with a valid UAE entry stamp or visa.
    • Tourist SIM cards may require additional proof of travel, such as a hotel booking or return ticket.

6. Local Considerations and Regulations

  1. SIM Card Registration:

    • All SIM cards in the UAE must be registered under the user’s name using valid identification. This is part of the UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) policy to ensure security and prevent misuse.

  2. Fair Usage Policy:

    • Internet packages are subject to a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), which may limit speeds after exceeding a certain data threshold.

  3. VoIP Services:

    • Popular VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, and FaceTime are restricted in the UAE. However, both Etisalat and du offer licensed alternatives such as Botim, C’Me, and Voico for internet calling. These services are available as part of specific internet or mobile packages.

  4. Censorship:

    • Certain websites and online content may be restricted in the UAE due to cultural and legal considerations.

  5. Emergency Numbers:

    • For telecom-related complaints or inquiries, you can contact the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) at 800-12.

7. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Tourist SIM Cards: If you’re visiting Ajman for a short period, opt for a tourist SIM card for convenience and affordability.
  • Bundle Packages: For long-term residents, bundled packages (internet, landline, and TV) offer better value for money.
  • Compare Providers: Check the latest offers from both Etisalat and du to find the best deal for your needs.
  • Stay Updated: Promotions and packages change frequently, so visit the providers’ websites or stores for the latest information.

By understanding the telecommunication services in Ajman, you can stay connected and enjoy a seamless experience during your stay in the UAE. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, the options provided by Etisalat and du cater to a wide range of needs and budgets.