If you’ve just arrived at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or are about to land, there’s good news — Dubai rolls out a warm welcome with exclusive discounts, perks, and free offers for tourists from the moment they arrive.
From complimentary SIM cards to hotel and dining discounts, Dubai ensures visitors enjoy a memorable stay from day one. Whether you’re here on a transit, visit, or visa-on-arrival, there are several ways to start saving instantly — and it all begins at DXB.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting a free Tourist SIM, accessing exclusive deals, and using your boarding pass for discounts across the city. 
1. Get a Free Tourist SIM Card Upon Arrival
As soon as you land at Dubai International Airport, you can pick up a free Tourist SIM card from telecom provider du, available at immigration counters.
This offer is valid for passengers holding transit visas, visit visas, visa on arrival, or for GCC citizens. The SIM comes preloaded with 1GB of data, valid for 24 hours. You can top up your plan later at du kiosks or Dubai Duty Free in the arrivals area.
Activating Your Tourist SIM
To activate your SIM:
- Insert the SIM card into your phone.
- Reply to the SMS from 1220 with your year of birth (e.g., reply with ‘1987’).
- Once verified, your SIM is ready for use.
In 2024, e& launched an instant eSIM for visitors, offering 10GB of free data. It can be activated after immigration using a QR code found on airport ads, metro stations, or malls. Or, visit: etisalat.ae visitor line
2. Enjoy Exclusive Discounts with the ALSAADA Tourist Card
Your du Tourist SIM package includes a QR code on the envelope. Scan it to download the ALSAADA app — Dubai’s official tourist discount program.
Steps to activate:
- Download the ALSAADA app (Google Play or Apple App Store)
- Enter your passport number and arrival date
- Log in using your passport number as both username and password
Provided by GDRFA-Dubai, the ALSAADA card gives access to special offers and discounts at participating restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets. Just present your digital card to enjoy the benefits.
3. Emirates Boarding Pass = Extra Perks
If you flew to Dubai with Emirates, don’t throw away your boarding pass. Thanks to the Emirates Pass, it gives you access to a wide range of discounts throughout the city.
From fine dining and spa experiences to desert safaris and reduced entry at top attractions like At The Top – Burj Khalifa, Aquaventure, and Dubai Parks & Resorts, the pass offers great value.
To redeem, present your printed or digital boarding pass and a valid photo ID at participating venues. Be sure to take a screenshot of your mobile boarding pass before your flight ends in case it becomes inaccessible.
The Emirates Pass summer offer runs from April 1 to September 2025. For a complete list of offers, visit the Emirates website.
Note: The boarding pass is for personal use only and cannot be sold, exchanged, or transferred. If misused, it becomes void.
