Getting a telephone is quite an easy process in Dubai. It can also pay off quickly because calls from one fixed line to another within the Emirate are free.
There are currently two providers of fixed phone lines in the UAE: Etisalat and Du. Both provide a range of plans to choose from. Etisalat's consumers enjoy good service, good network coverage and decent rates for local calling. Du offers a relatively good range of services as well as good international calling rates.
Du is a much younger company on the market, and in the past it had been dealing with coverage problems. However, nowadays this is claimed to be no longer an issue.
In order to get a fixed phone line, you need to visit your operator’s shop. You will need to bring your passport, your residency visa and your tenancy agreement or proof of ownership (if you’re lucky enough to have your own house). You will have to hand over a copy of these documents and a letter from your employer stating your income. If you’re younger than 21, you will also have to submit a letter of approval from your parent or guardian.
A telephone line is usually installed within one or two working days at most.
In 2010, the price for setting up the phone line ranged from 180 to 210 Emirati dirhams (AED). There is also a rental fee of 70 AED which is charged every three months.
Etisalat allows various methods of payment. You can either set up a direct debit, pay at automated payment machines located in most shopping centres or pay by cash at an Etisalat shop.
Du also offers various ways to pay the phone bill. You can either pay directly in Du shops, at Cash Deposit Machines, by mobile, by cheques or via bank transfers. It is also possible to register your credit card at Du to allow automatic payment of your monthly bill or recharge a fixed amount per week or month.