FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about your GulfData eSIM
📱 Getting Started
After your purchase, you'll receive an email with a QR code. Here's how to install:
- iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Scan the code
- Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
Can't scan? Use the manual installation link provided in your email, or enter the activation code directly.
Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including:
- iPhone: XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and newer (including all Pro/Max models)
- Samsung: Galaxy S20 and newer, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip series
- Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and newer
- Other: Many Huawei, Xiaomi, and Oppo devices
Important: Your phone must be network unlocked. If you bought it from a carrier, check it's unlocked before purchasing.
Yes! We recommend installing your eSIM before you leave home while you have WiFi.
Just don't enable/activate the eSIM data until you arrive at your destination. Your data plan starts when you first connect to a mobile network in the covered region.
Your eSIM email is usually delivered within 2-3 minutes. If you haven't received it:
- Check your spam/junk folder
- Search for emails from
noreply@gulfdata.io - Make sure you entered the correct email at checkout
Still can't find it? Contact us with your order number and we'll resend it.
If the QR code isn't visible in your email:
- Click "Display images" or "Show images" at the top of your email
- Try opening the email on a different device
- Use the text link provided below the QR code instead
If the QR code is visible but won't scan, use the manual installation option with the activation code provided in your email.
🌍 Using Your eSIM
Yes! That's the beauty of eSIM. Your phone can use both simultaneously:
- Keep your regular SIM for calls and texts from home
- Use your GulfData eSIM for affordable data abroad
Just make sure to set your GulfData eSIM as the default for "Mobile Data" in your phone settings.
You can check your data usage in your phone's settings:
- iPhone: Settings → Cellular → scroll down to see usage per SIM
- Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → select your eSIM
Note: This shows data used by your phone, which may differ slightly from carrier records.
Our eSIMs are data-only, which means they don't include traditional voice calls or SMS.
However, you can make calls using apps that work over data:
- WhatsApp calls
- FaceTime
- Skype
- Zoom
For regular calls, keep your home SIM active or use WiFi calling.
If you run out of data, simply purchase another eSIM package from our store. You can install multiple eSIMs on most modern phones.
Planning a longer trip? Consider buying a larger data package upfront - it's usually better value.
When your data allowance is used up, your eSIM will simply stop providing data. You won't be charged extra or face any surprise bills.
To get back online, purchase a new eSIM package from our store.
💳 Orders & Payments
Your eSIM is delivered instantly via email after payment. Most customers receive it within 2-3 minutes.
Since eSIMs are digital, there's no shipping required - perfect for last-minute travel!
We accept all major payment methods:
- Credit & debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Shop Pay
- PayPal
We offer refunds for unused and uninstalled eSIMs within 30 days of purchase.
Once an eSIM has been installed on a device or activated on a network, it cannot be refunded as it's been consumed.
To request a refund, contact us with your order number.
Yes! Your order confirmation email serves as a receipt. If you need a formal VAT invoice for business expenses, contact us with your order number and company details.
🔧 Troubleshooting
Try these steps:
- Make sure you're in a covered country/region for your eSIM package
- Check that Data Roaming is turned ON for your eSIM
- Ensure your GulfData eSIM is set as the default for Mobile Data
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
- Restart your phone
Still not working? Contact us - we're here to help!
Unfortunately, once an eSIM is deleted from your device, the QR code cannot be used again for security reasons.
If your eSIM still had unused data, contact us with your order number and we'll do our best to help.
Tip: Don't delete your eSIM until you've used all the data or your trip is complete!
eSIM speeds depend on local network coverage. Try:
- Moving to a different location with better signal
- Toggling Airplane Mode on and off to reconnect
- Restarting your phone
In busy tourist areas or during peak times, networks can be congested - this is normal and not specific to eSIMs.