Quick answer
An eSIM is a SIM built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a mobile plan to it. For a trip, you install a data plan for your destination before you leave, keep your regular SIM for calls and texts, and switch your mobile data to the eSIM when you land.
How an eSIM works
A regular SIM is a small card you put in your phone. An eSIM does the same job, but it's a chip already built into the phone. A mobile plan is downloaded to it, usually by scanning a QR code or tapping Install in an app.
Phones that support eSIM can hold your regular SIM and an eSIM at the same time. You choose which line handles mobile data, and the phone uses one line for data at a time.
Why travellers use an eSIM
- You buy and install it before you fly, so there's no SIM counter to find at the airport.
- Your regular SIM stays in the phone, so your number keeps working for calls and SMS.
- You pay for a plan made for your destination instead of using your home carrier's data roaming.
- Regional plans cover several countries with one eSIM, so you don't need a new SIM at every border.
What you need before you buy
- A phone that supports eSIM. Not every phone does, so check your model on our supported devices list.
- A phone that isn't locked to one carrier. A locked phone can't use another provider's eSIM.
- A Wi-Fi connection while you install the eSIM.
Quick check: on iPhone, go to Settings → General → About. If you see an EID number, your iPhone supports eSIM. On Android, look for EID under Settings → About phone, or dial *#06#.
How Burj eSIMs work
- Every current Burj plan has unlimited data. Speeds depend on the local network where you are.
- Plans are sold by the number of days you need, for one country, a region or the whole world.
- Burj eSIMs are data only, with no phone number. Your regular SIM keeps your number.
- You install it from the Burj app or with the QR code on your order page. See how to install a travel eSIM.
Common questions
Can I keep my regular SIM while using an eSIM?
Yes. Phones that support eSIM can use your regular SIM and an eSIM together. Keep your regular SIM for calls and texts and use the eSIM for mobile data.
Does a Burj eSIM come with a phone number?
No. Burj eSIMs are data only. Your regular SIM and number stay on your phone, so you can keep receiving calls and SMS on it.
Can I use one eSIM on more than one phone?
No. Each eSIM is tied to the phone it's installed on and can't be active on several devices at the same time.