Does the iPhone 13 support eSIM? Yes, per the official list for the UAE
The iPhone 13 is on Apple’s list of eSIM phones for the UAE. On a phone bought abroad, it depends on the market it was made for. To be sure, look for an “Add eSIM” option in the SIM settings.
UAE version and imported phones
| Version | eSIM |
|---|---|
| Sold in the UAEApple UAE eSIM list | Has eSIM |
| Bought abroad (other markets) | Depends on the version |
What the official list says
- Apple Support (UAE): eSIM works on “iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later”.
- Apple Support (UAE): two eSIMs active at once on “iPhone 13 models and later”.
- Whether the iPhone 13 sold in the UAE also has a nano-SIM tray is not confirmed here: Apple’s UAE tech specs page shows the US configuration.
- An iPhone bought in China mainland has no eSIM: Apple says only iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, 17e and Air support eSIM there. In Hong Kong and Macao, some models have two nano-SIM slots instead.
Check your phone in a minute
Open Settings → Cellular: if there is an Add eSIM or Set Up Cellular option, your iPhone 13 has eSIM.
If your phone has no eSIM
No eSIM option, no travel eSIM: don’t buy one. Your options abroad are your operator’s roaming pack, a local SIM card bought on arrival, or a pocket Wi-Fi: compare roaming packs and eSIM prices in AED.
Not sure how much data to take? Work it out from your trip length and how you use your phone.
Frequently asked questions
How many eSIMs can the iPhone 13 use?
Apple’s list for the UAE confirms eSIM on the iPhone 13, but not whether two eSIMs can be active at the same time.
Can I keep my UAE number and add a travel eSIM on the iPhone 13?
Yes: the iPhone 13 keeps two lines active at once, so your UAE number stays on and the travel eSIM handles data.
Sources
- Apple Support (UAE): Set up eSIM on iPhone, checked on 15 Oct 2026
- Apple Support (UAE): Using Dual SIM with an eSIM, checked on 15 Oct 2026
Verified on 15 Oct 2026. Back to the list of eSIM-compatible phones for other models.