eSIM options for expats and digital nomads across Southeast Asia, the UAE and Europe. Coverage, data speeds and when to use eSIM vs a local physical SIM.
Use eSIM when: Arriving in a new country before you have time to get a local SIM. Travelling between multiple countries in one trip. Your phone has eSIM support and you want instant setup. Short stays where a physical SIM isn't practical.
Use a local physical SIM when: Staying in one country long-term. You need a local phone number. Local SIM plans are significantly cheaper per GB than eSIM providers (often the case in Thailand and Malaysia). Your phone doesn't support eSIM.
Thailand: Airalo works on arrival. For stays longer than 2 weeks, a local AIS or DTAC SIM is significantly cheaper (THB 299–599 for 30-day unlimited plans). Get the local SIM at Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang airport.
UAE: Airalo works. Local du or Etisalat SIM is better value for stays over a week. UAE airport SIM desks are in arrivals.
Southeast Asia multi-country: Airalo's Asia regional plan or Nomad's Southeast Asia plan are the most practical options.
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