What is an eSIM, in plain language
The e stands for embedded. Instead of a removable plastic SIM, your phone has a small chip inside it that can hold one or more mobile plans as digital profiles. You add a plan by scanning a QR code or tapping a button in an app.
eSIM is a standard from the GSMA, the industry body for mobile operators, and is built into most recent smartphones. Your phone can usually hold your normal SIM and an eSIM at the same time, and you choose which line handles calls and which handles mobile data.
A travel eSIM is simply an eSIM with a data plan for use abroad: maps, messaging, ride-hailing and everything else that needs the internet while you're away.
How does an eSIM work when you travel?
An eSIM for travel works in three stages: buy, install and connect. The key detail is timing. The plan starts when the eSIM first connects to a network abroad, not when you buy it, so it is safe to install it at home before you fly, while you have reliable Wi-Fi.
- Buy: choose your destination and plan in the Shpper app, and pay by card, wallet or Shpper points. Your QR code is ready right after purchase.
- Install: on iPhone, install with one tap from the Shpper app. On any phone you can also scan the QR code from another screen, or enter the details manually.
- Connect: when you land, turn on Data Roaming for the Shpper line and set it as your mobile-data line. Your plan starts on that first connection abroad.
eSIM vs physical SIM: what's the difference?
The traditional option is a local SIM bought on arrival. It works, but an eSIM avoids its trade-offs.
- No shop or airport queue: you buy and install the eSIM from your phone, before you leave home.
- You keep your home number: your usual SIM stays in the phone, so calls and SMS to your UAE or Saudi number, including bank verification codes, can still reach you, depending on your home operator's roaming terms.
- Nothing to swap or lose: no tiny card to remove or misplace mid-trip.
- Ready before you fly: install at home and you are online when you land.
- Data only: a Shpper travel eSIM is a data plan, so calls and texts on it are not included.
- When a local SIM still makes sense: if you need a local phone number, for example for a long stay, a physical local SIM remains the right tool.
Which phones support eSIM, and how to check
To use a travel eSIM, your phone must be eSIM-capable and carrier-unlocked, meaning it is not locked to a single operator. Most phones released from 2018 onwards support eSIM.
The quickest check is to dial *#06#. If the screen shows an EID number, your phone has an eSIM chip. You can also look in settings: on iPhone, open Settings, then Mobile Data or Cellular, and look for an option to add an eSIM. On Android, look under Connections or Network and internet for a SIM manager or a similar option.
Some models sold in certain countries ship without eSIM, and a phone bought on contract may be locked, so check both. As a guide, these eSIM supported phones will work:
- iPhone XS, iPhone XR and newer models
- Google Pixel 3 and newer
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
Is an eSIM safe and reliable?
In general, yes. An eSIM is part of the phone itself, so it cannot be pulled out and used in another device the way a plastic SIM can if your phone is lost or stolen. Your phone lock and PIN protect it like the rest of your device.
Reliability depends on the local networks at your destination rather than on the eSIM format, just as it does with a physical SIM. It helps to install before you fly and to turn off data roaming on your home line so it doesn't run up charges with your home operator.
Shpper sends usage alerts when your data runs low and before your plan ends, and support is available 24/7 if something doesn't work as expected.
Country plan, regional pack or Worldwide: how to choose
Shpper eSIMs cover 190+ countries, with data from 1 GB up to unlimited and validity from 3 to 90 days, depending on the destination. The right type of plan depends on where you are going.
- Single-country plan: for a trip to one country, such as a holiday in Turkey or a visit to Egypt.
- Regional pack: for trips across several countries in one region, such as a tour of Europe. Packs cover Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, North America, South America and Oceania, plus combinations such as Asia + Europe.
- Worldwide plan: for trips that cross regions, or if you travel often and want one plan that covers many countries.
- Data and days: maps and messaging use little data, while video calls, streaming and hotspot use much more. Prices vary, so compare plans on each destination page.
How to buy a Shpper eSIM in 4 steps
Shpper eSIMs are bought and managed in the Shpper app, available on iPhone and Android.
- Open the Shpper app and search for your destination, a region or the Worldwide plan.
- Pick the data and validity that suit your trip, and pay by card, wallet or Shpper points.
- Install the eSIM: one tap from the app on iPhone, or scan the QR code from another screen.
- When you arrive, turn on Data Roaming for the Shpper line and make it your mobile-data line. The plan starts on first connection, and you can add more data in the app if you need it.
