Mobile number porting is which allows you to transfer from one network to another while keeping the same mobile number. Therefore, if you prefer one service provider’s internet plan or lower international calling rates, you can easily change providers while keeping your same mobile number.
Mobile phone number porting in the UAE was introduced in 2013. Consequently, if you want one service provider’s internet plan or lower international calling rates, you can switch while retaining the same mobile number.
The process for porting the mobile number in UAE:
In UAE there are only three major mobile services providers:
- Etisalat
- Du
- Virgin Mobile
Switching to either Etisalat or Du:
The process is the same if one plans to switch to Etisalat or Du.
- If the person wants to keep the same number, they are required to visit an authorized branch in the city.
- Once there, they will provide you various pre and postpaid plans, choose the plan whichever suits you the best.
- Whichever plan you select you will retain your existing number.
If you opt for a prepaid plan, you will be required to have your valid Emirates ID, whereas if you choose the post-paid plan you are required to carry these documents:
- Salary Certificate Stamped (AED 2,500 minimum salary)
- Last three months’ bank statement
- Previous month utility bill with the address
- Vehicle Registration
- Tenancy/House ownership contract
- Ministry of Labour contract (AED 2,500 minimum salary)
Also, if a plan includes getting a device and SIM from the new provider, the salary requirement increases to 4,000 AED.
Your last service provider’s dues must be cleared before you can begin your new mobile plan.
If the one selects the postpaid plan, you are required to choose one of the two payment options:
- You must pay AED 1,000 upfront to cover your monthly bill.
- Set up a valid credit card that allows auto-payments for at least six months. The first month’s payment will be deducted immediately, while automatic deductions will occur every 15th of the month.
You will also have to fill in and sign the application form. It will allow you to retain your existing number while changing to a different service provider.
Porting the number to virgin mobile:
- Download the Virgin Mobile app and sign up
- Click on “My Numbers” and then “Bring Your Current From The Menu”.
- You are required to tick a box confirming that you have a valid Emirates ID(visitors can use their passport)
- The card is delivered on the same day. But the delivery is available only in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. Whereas the transfer process takes 72 hours to get the original number working. The person will be given a temporary number till the original number gets activated (for 72 hours). Once the number has been ported, the temporary number becomes invalid.
