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Understanding the UAE’s plug system before you travel can save you a lot of unnecessary stress, especially after a long flight when all you want to do is charge your phone. The country mainly uses Type G plugs, which are different from what you’ll find in North America, and it also runs on a higher voltage.
When I first planned my trip to the United Arab Emirates, one of the small but important details I made sure to sort out early was how I’d charge my devices.
The UAE primarily uses Type G plugs (the same style as the U.K.), so most travelers from the U.S. will need a plug adapter to charge anything.
One thing I wish more people mentioned upfront: while Type G is the main standard, the UAE is also reported to use Type C and Type D in some places.
In practice, Type G is what you should plan around (and what I recommend buying adapters for), but it helps to know why you might occasionally see something else.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to expect from UAE outlets, whether you’ll need a voltage converter, which adapters actually work, and the easiest ways to stay connected with mobile internet during your trip.
From what I’ve seen traveling around the UAE, Type G is by far the most common plug. It’s what you’ll find in most hotels, newer apartments, shopping malls, cafes, and airports.
If you’re staying in modern accommodations, this is the plug type you should expect and plan for. That said, I’ve also come across Type C and Type D outlets in certain situations.
Type G has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern. It’s grounded, sturdy, and the same plug used in the U.K.
If you’re staying in a standard hotel in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, this is the plug type the wall sockets are designed for, meaning Type G plugs will fit directly without an adapter.
Type C has two round pins and is widely used across much of Europe.
In the UAE, I’ve mainly seen Type C plugs work in older buildings or places that still use older-style outlets designed for this plug type.
These aren’t common anymore, and you shouldn’t expect to find them in most modern hotels or newer apartments.
Type D has three round pins arranged in a triangular pattern and is commonly used in countries like India.
In the UAE, this plug type shows up occasionally in older properties or older electrical setups, but it’s definitely not the norm.
You might run into it in older buildings, but it’s not something I’d plan around.
Type G is the standard and most common plug type in the UAE, and it’s the one I base all my adapter recommendations on.
Type G adapters are easy to find online and in travel stores, but I strongly recommend buying one before your trip. Airport shops usually charge more, and the selection is often limited.
Moreover, many modern adapters now come with USB and USB-C ports, which makes it easier to charge multiple devices at once without carrying a bulky power strip.
Here are three well-rated Type G adapters that work reliably in the UAE:
This compact 3-pack is a simple, no-frills option for travel to the UAE. The adapters accept standard North American 2- and 3-prong plugs and fit securely into Type G outlets.
They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and well-suited for everyday devices like phones, tablets, laptops, and camera chargers.
Rated for 10A and 250V, they work with most dual-voltage electronics.
This Type G adapter is designed for destinations like the UAE that use the U.K.-style plug.
It turns one outlet into three U.S. sockets, plus one USB-A port and two USB-C ports, so you can charge up to six devices at once.
It supports up to 3250W (250V, 13A), making it suitable for most everyday travel electronics. The USB ports share a 5V/3.1A output with smart charging.
This 4-pack is a practical option if you’re traveling with multiple devices or sharing outlets.
Each adapter is rated for up to 250V and 10A, making them suitable for most dual-voltage electronics.
They’re compact, lightweight, and easy to spread across different bags or rooms.
The UAE uses 230V / 50Hz electricity. This is higher than the 110–120V system used in the U.S. and Canada, but it’s the same as in the U.K. and most of Europe.
In most cases, you will not need a voltage converter — but you will need the correct plug adapter.
Here’s how it breaks down:
You will need a plug adapter because Type A and Type B plugs do not fit Type G outlets.
Most modern electronics like phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and power banks are dual voltage (100–240V). These devices only need an adapter, not a converter.
However, older or high-wattage appliances like hair dryers, curling irons, or electric shavers may be single-voltage.
If they only support 110–120V, you’ll either need a voltage converter or leave them at home.
You’re fully compatible. The UAE uses the same plug type and voltage. No adapter or converter is needed.
You will need a plug adapter, because European plugs (Type C and Type F) do not fit Type G sockets.
However, the voltage is the same, so you won’t need a converter for most modern electronics.
There are four main ways to get internet in the United Arab Emirates, and the best choice depends on how long you’re staying and how much data you use.
Roaming lets you use your home mobile plan abroad by connecting automatically to local networks. This is the easiest option, but it’s often the most expensive.
U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer international passes that work in the UAE, typically charging around $5–$15 per day depending on your plan.
For short trips, this can be convenient, but for longer stays, it adds up quickly.
An eSIM is a digital SIM that you install on your phone without needing a physical card. It can be activated instantly, and most providers don’t require any documents.
Holafly is best for unlimited data, which is great if you use navigation apps, social media, and video streaming. Airalo is another popular option for travelers who want flexible prepaid data plans.
eSIMs are my preferred option for short- to medium-length trips because they’re fast to set up and don’t require visiting a store.
Read our guide on the best eSIM for the UAE for more info.
Local SIM cards are available at airports and mobile shops from providers like Etisalat and Du. These usually offer the best value for longer stays.
You’ll need your passport for registration, and setup can take some time. Once activated, coverage is excellent across the UAE.
Pocket WiFi is a portable router that connects multiple devices to a single data plan. It’s useful for families, groups, or travelers who need internet on several devices at once.
It’s usually more expensive than eSIMs or SIM cards and requires charging and carrying an extra device, but it can be convenient in certain situations.
Traveling internationally often means dealing with different plug shapes, voltages, and socket designs.
Knowing what to expect before your trip helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and keeps your devices safe.
Here’s a quick overview of common plug types:
| Plug type | Countries/Regions where used |
| Type A | United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, Costa Rica, Panama |
| Type B | United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan |
| Type C | Most of Europe, Thailand, Indonesia, Turkey, South Korea, Vietnam |
| Type D | India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh |
| Type E | France, Belgium, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia |
| Type F | Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, Norway |
| Type G | United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia |
| Type I | Australia, New Zealand, China, Argentina, Papua New Guinea |
| Type J | Switzerland, Liechtenstein |
| Type K | Denmark, Greenland |
| Type L | Italy, Chile |
| Type M | South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho |
| Type N | Brazil |
| Type O | Thailand |
If you plan to visit other destinations in the Middle East, North Africa, or Europe in addition to the UAE, it’s worth checking the plug types for each country before you go.
To make things easier, here are a few guides you might find helpful:
Knowing this in advance can save you from carrying unnecessary adapters or, worse, being unable to charge your devices when you arrive.
No. The U.S. uses Type A and Type B plugs, which are not compatible with UAE Type G sockets. You will need a plug adapter.
Yes. The UAE uses the same Type G plug standard as the United Kingdom.
No. Canada uses Type A and Type B plugs. Canadian travelers will need a Type G adapter.
The UAE uses 230 volts and 50 hertz.
Most modern electronics are dual voltage and only require a plug adapter. Some high-wattage or older appliances may need a converter.
Yes. They’re sold at airports, convenience stores, electronics shops, and some hotels, but they usually cost more than buying online in advance.
Yes, as long as it supports Type G and is rated for 230V.
Some hotels do, but availability varies. It’s best to bring your own.
Yes. Type G plugs include a grounding pin for added safety.
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