Five SIM is Etisalat’s popular prepaid service offering affordable rates for calls, data, and international minutes. If you have forgotten your Five SIM number, there are multiple ways to retrieve it quickly and for free, even without credit or internet.
Five SIM is a prepaid mobile service launched by Etisalat by e&, the UAE’s primary telecommunications provider. It is designed specifically for cost-conscious users who want competitive rates for local calls, mobile data, and international dialing without a long-term contract. Unlike postpaid plans, Five SIM operates on a pay-as-you-go model, making it popular among students, temporary residents, budget travelers, and anyone who wants predictable monthly expenses.
The “Five” name refers to five key benefits often bundled in its starter packs: local minutes, international minutes, data, social media access, and a welcome bonus. However, because the SIM is prepaid and often purchased quickly at airports or retail stores, many users forget to note down their assigned mobile number. Fortunately, Etisalat and the UAE’s telecom regulator provide several easy, free methods to retrieve your Five SIM number.
This guide covers every possible method, from USSD codes and the official Five app to the government Hesabati portal and in-store assistance. Detailed comparison tables and sub-topics about Five SIM plans, activation, and balance checking are also included.
All Five SIM Number Check Methods (2026)
| Method | Steps | Time | Internet Required | Balance Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dial *248# | Open dialer → enter *248# → press call | 5-10 seconds | No | No | Fastest, most reliable |
| Dial *101# then select option | Open dialer → *101# → follow menu to “My Number” | 15-30 seconds | No | No | When *248# fails |
| Dial *101*1*3*3# | Open dialer → enter *101*1*3*3# → press call | 5-10 seconds | No | No | Advanced direct code |
| Five App | Download app → automatic SIM login → check dashboard | 30-60 seconds | Yes (Wi-Fi/data) | No | Account management + number |
| TDRA Hesabati | Visit tdra.gov.ae → login with UAE Pass → view registered numbers | 2-3 minutes | Yes | No | View all numbers under your Emirates ID |
| Phone Settings | Settings → About Phone → SIM Status → My Number | 10-20 seconds | No | No | When phone displays number |
| SIM Packaging | Locate original SIM card holder | Instant | No | No | Number printed on card |
| Activation SMS | Search SMS inbox for Etisalat welcome message | 1-2 minutes | No | No | If you kept old messages |
| Call a friend | Dial friend’s number → ask for caller ID | 10-30 seconds | No | Requires small credit | Quick social method |
| Call 101 from Five SIM | Dial 101 → speak to representative | 2-5 minutes | No | No | Live assistance needed |
| Visit Etisalat store | Go to Business Center with Emirates ID | 5-15 minutes | No | No | Physical assistance, blocked SIM |
Method 1: USSD Codes via Phone Dialer (Fastest, No Internet)
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes work like short commands you dial on your phone’s keypad. They function without an internet connection and even when your prepaid balance is zero.
Primary Code: Dial *248#
The most reliable USSD code for checking your Five SIM number is *248#. This code is specific to Etisalat’s prepaid services, including Five SIM. To use it, open your phone’s dialer, enter *248# exactly as shown, and press the call button. After approximately 5 to 10 seconds, an on-screen pop-up window will appear displaying your Five SIM mobile number. This method works on both smartphones and basic feature phones. It is free of charge and does not require any active data connection. If the pop-up does not appear automatically, you may need to press “OK” or “Send” after dialing.
Alternative Code: Dial *101#
The code *101# is Etisalat’s general customer service menu for prepaid lines, including Five SIM. When you dial *101# and press call, an interactive text menu will appear on your screen. Navigate through the menu options by typing the number corresponding to “Account Information” or “My Number”. On most Five SIM lines, selecting option 1 or option 3 from the main menu will reveal your mobile number. This method takes slightly longer than *248# but is very reliable and works when the primary code is unresponsive.
Direct Code: Dial *101*1*3*3#
For advanced users, a specific nested USSD code can bypass the menu system entirely. Dial *101*1*3*3# and press call. This command drills down directly to the “My Number” display function within Etisalat’s *101# menu structure. Within seconds, your Five SIM number will appear on the screen. This is the most direct USSD method after *248# and is recommended for users comfortable with entering longer codes.
Troubleshooting USSD Codes on Five SIM
If USSD codes do not work, ensure you are dialing from the correct SIM slot if your phone has dual SIM capabilities. Some dual-SIM phones allow you to assign a default SIM for USSD commands; check your SIM management settings. Also, ensure your phone has a basic network signal; USSD codes do not work in airplane mode or when roaming in countries without Etisalat partner agreements.
Method 2: Official Five App (Most Comprehensive)
The official Five app, developed by Etisalat by e&, is the most user-friendly way to manage your Five SIM account. It displays your phone number prominently on the home screen.
Downloading and Installing the Five App
The Five app is available for free on both the Apple App Store (for iOS devices) and the Google Play Store (for Android devices). Search for “Five App” or “Five by e&”. The developer name should be “Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC” or “e& UAE”. Download and install the app. The app size is approximately 50 to 70 MB, so ensure you have sufficient storage space and a stable internet connection for download.
Logging In to the Five App
Upon opening the app for the first time, you will be prompted to log in. The Five app typically uses one of two login methods. The first is automatic SIM detection: if your phone has an active Five SIM inserted, the app may detect it automatically and log you in without a password.
The second method is OTP (One-Time Password) login: you enter your Five SIM number (ironically, the number you are trying to find) and receive a verification code via SMS. If you do not know your number, use the automatic SIM detection method or use a USSD code first to retrieve your number, then log in.
Finding Your Number in the Five App Dashboard
Once logged in, your Five SIM mobile number is displayed prominently on the main dashboard or home screen. It is usually shown at the top of the screen, often next to a SIM card icon or your account balance. On some versions of the app, you may need to tap on the “Profile” icon (usually a person icon in the bottom or top corner) or the “Account” tab to see your full number. The app also displays your remaining balance, data usage, active plans, and expiry dates, making it a valuable tool beyond just number retrieval.
Method 3: Government Hesabati Service via UAE Pass (Authoritative)
The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) provides a free online service called “Hesabati” (meaning “My Account” in Arabic). This service allows any UAE resident to view all mobile numbers registered under their Emirates ID across all telecom operators, including Etisalat’s Five SIM.
Accessing the Hesabati Portal
To use the Hesabati service, open a web browser on your computer or smartphone and visit the official TDRA website (tdra.gov.ae). Navigate to the “E-Services” or “Smart Services” section and look for “Hesabati” or “My Number” service.
Alternatively, you can directly search for “TDRA Hesabati” on Google. The service is also available as a mobile application on official app stores, though the web portal is more comprehensive.
Logging In with UAE Pass
The Hesabati service requires authentication through UAE Pass, the national digital identity system for the UAE. If you do not have a UAE Pass account, you can create one using your Emirates ID and mobile number. To log in, click the “Login with UAE Pass” button on the Hesabati portal. You will be redirected to the UAE Pass login page. Enter your UAE Pass credentials (mobile number and password) or scan the QR code using the UAE Pass mobile app. Once authenticated, you will be redirected back to the Hesabati portal.
Viewing Your Registered Numbers
After successful login, the Hesabati dashboard will display a list of all mobile numbers registered under your Emirates ID. The list includes numbers from all UAE operators: Etisalat, du, Virgin Mobile, and others. Each entry typically shows the mobile number, the operator name (e.g., “Etisalat by e&”), and the status of the line (active, suspended, or closed). Your Five SIM number will appear as an Etisalat prepaid line. This method is particularly useful if you have multiple SIM cards or want to verify that no unknown numbers are registered under your identity.
Method 4: Check Your Phone’s System Settings
Both Android and iOS devices have a settings section that may display the phone number associated with the inserted SIM card. However, this field is not always populated by all carriers.
On Android Devices
- Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
- Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “About Phone” or “About Device” (the exact wording varies by manufacturer such as Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Google Pixel, etc.).
- Step 3: Tap on “Status” or “SIM Status”.
- Step 4: Look for a field labeled “My Phone Number” or “SIM Number”.
- Step 5: If the field is populated, your Five SIM number will be displayed.
- Step 6: If it says “Unknown” or is blank, your carrier has not pushed this information to the device. In that case, use one of the other methods (such as dialing *248#, checking SMS, or using the Five app).
On iPhones (iOS)
- Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “Phone”.
- Step 3: Look for the field labeled “My Number” at the top of the Phone settings page.
- Step 4: Your Five SIM number should appear here.
- Step 5: If the field is empty or shows “Unknown”, your carrier has not provided this information to your iPhone.
⚠️ Important for Dual SIM iPhones: If your iPhone has dual SIM (eSIM and physical SIM), you may see multiple “My Number” fields. Ensure you are checking the correct line for your Five SIM.
💡 Note: If the number does not appear in phone settings, try dialing *248# , checking your activation SMS, or logging into the Five app as alternative methods.
Method 5: Physical Methods – SIM Packaging and Activation SMS
Sometimes the simplest methods are the most effective, especially when you have access to the original SIM card materials.
Check Your SIM Card Packaging
When you purchase a new Five SIM starter pack, your mobile number is printed directly on the SIM card holder or the welcome insert inside the packaging. The SIM card is attached to a larger plastic card (the “SIM card frame” or “credit card-sized holder”). Look for a sticker or a printed section that includes your phone number alongside other information such as the PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) and serial number (S/N). If you have kept the original packaging, this is the easiest way to find your number without turning on your phone.
How to Find Your Five SIM Number from the Activation SMS?
Step 1: Open the SMS or Messages app on your phone.
Step 2: Search your SMS inbox for messages from Etisalat or Five.
Step 3: Look for messages containing any of the following keywords:
- “FIVE”
- “Welcome”
- “Activation”
- “Your number is”
- “Etisalat”
Step 4: Check for subject lines or opening phrases such as:
- “Welcome to Five”
- “Your Five SIM is now active”
Step 5: Open the most relevant message. Your mobile number is typically displayed clearly within the SMS body.
Step 6: Note down or save your number for future reference.
💡 Important: This method only works if you have never deleted your old messages from the time you first activated your Five SIM card. If you regularly clear your SMS inbox, this method may not work for you.
Method 6: Call or Text a Friend to Get Your Number
If you have an active call or SMS balance on your Five SIM, you can use a friend’s phone to discover your own number.
Call a Friend’s Phone
Simply call a friend or family member from your Five SIM. When your friend receives the call, your Five mobile number will appear on their caller ID screen. Ask them to read the number back to you. This method works even if you have zero credit for outgoing calls in some cases, as networks often allow calls to certain numbers or emergency calls. However, for reliability, ensure you have a small amount of credit or that the call connects.
Send a Text Message
Send a simple SMS (text message) to a friend from your Five SIM. When they receive the message, your mobile number will appear in the “From” field of their messaging app. Ask them to tell you the number. This method uses a small amount of SMS credit but is very reliable.
Method 7: Call Etisalat Customer Care
If you are unable to retrieve your number using digital or USSD methods, Etisalat’s customer care team can assist you.
Dial 101 from Your Five SIM
The primary customer service number for Etisalat prepaid customers is 101. Dial 101 from your Five SIM and listen to the interactive voice response (IVR) menu. You may need to say “My number” or press the number corresponding to “Account Information”. Alternatively, you can stay on the line to speak to a customer care representative. The call to 101 is typically free from Etisalat prepaid lines. The representative will ask for verification information such as your Emirates ID number or the answer to your security question before disclosing your mobile number.
Dial 800 544 from Any Phone
If you do not have access to your Five SIM or cannot make calls from it, you can call Etisalat’s general customer service line at 800 544 from any other phone (landline, du line, or international number). This is a toll-free number within the UAE. Be prepared to provide your Emirates ID number and possibly other account details for verification.
Method 8: Visit an Etisalat Business Center
For in-person assistance, you can visit any Etisalat Business Center or authorized retail store across Dubai and the UAE.
Locations and What to Bring
Etisalat operates customer service centers in major malls (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre), commercial districts, and some metro stations. Bring your physical Five SIM card and your original Emirates ID (for registered prepaid lines). A Etisalat staff member will be able to look up your number in their system and provide it to you directly. This method is particularly useful if your SIM card is blocked, damaged, or if you are experiencing technical issues with USSD codes or the app.
Sub-Topic 1: What is Five SIM? Complete Overview
Five SIM is Etisalat’s flagship prepaid product designed for value-conscious users. It offers competitive rates and flexible recharge options.
Five SIM Starter Pack Contents
A typical Five SIM starter pack costs between AED 25 and AED 50 and includes the physical SIM card (or eSIM QR code), a welcome leaflet, and an initial credit balance. The starter pack often bundles five key benefits: local minutes, international minutes, mobile data, social media data, and a welcome bonus. Some variants of Five SIM are called “Five 5” or “Five Plus”, each with different allocations of talk time and data.
Five SIM vs Other Etisalat Prepaid Plans
Etisalat offers several prepaid options. Five SIM is positioned as the budget-friendly choice, while Wasel and Swyp offer different benefits. The table below compares Five SIM to other Etisalat prepaid plans.
| Feature | Five SIM | Wasel Prepaid | Swyp by Etisalat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Budget users, students | General prepaid users | Youth, heavy data users |
| Local Call Rate (per minute) | Lower than standard | Standard Etisalat rate | Varies by plan |
| Data Rollover | Limited | Yes (with certain plans) | Yes |
| International Minutes Bundle | Yes (in starter pack) | Optional add-on | Yes (app-based) |
| Monthly Commitment | None | None | None |
How to Activate a New Five SIM?
Activating a Five SIM is a simple process that can be completed online or through customer service.
Online Activation via Etisalat Website
After purchasing a Five SIM starter pack, visit the Etisalat website (etisalat.ae) and navigate to the “Prepaid Activation” section. Enter the SIM serial number found on the SIM card holder, along with your Emirates ID number and passport photograph (if required for registration). The activation typically takes between 10 minutes and 2 hours. You will receive an SMS confirmation when your Five SIM is active.
Activation via Customer Service
Alternatively, you can activate your Five SIM by calling Etisalat customer service at 101 (from any Etisalat line) or 800 544 (from any other phone). A representative will guide you through the registration process, which requires your Emirates ID details. This method is useful if you encounter technical issues with online activation.
Registration Requirements for Five SIM
All Five SIM cards must be registered under a valid Emirates ID. Tourists may use their passport for temporary registration, but the SIM will have a shorter validity period (typically 30 to 90 days). Registration is mandatory under UAE telecom regulations to prevent anonymous SIM usage for fraudulent activities. If you fail to register your Five SIM, the line may be suspended after a grace period.
How to Check Your Five SIM Balance?
Once you know your number, you will need to manage your prepaid balance. Here are the methods for checking your Five SIM balance.
USSD Codes for Balance Check
Dial *101# to open the Etisalat prepaid menu. Select option 1 (usually “Check Balance”) to view your main account balance, data balance, and validity dates. Alternatively, dial *101*1# directly for a quick balance summary. Both methods are free and work without internet.
Balance Check via Five App
Log in to the Five app. The main dashboard displays your remaining credit, active data bundles, and expiry dates. The app also shows your local minute balance and international minute balance if those are included in your plan.
SMS Balance Request
Send a blank SMS to 1010. You will receive an automated reply containing your current prepaid balance and validity. This method uses one SMS credit.
How to Recharge Your Five SIM?
Recharging your Five SIM keeps your line active and allows you to purchase data and talk time bundles.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purchase Recharge Card | Buy an Etisalat recharge card (Wasel Charge Card or Five Recharge Voucher) from convenience stores (Zoom, Carrefour, ENOC petrol stations), telecom shops, or online. |
| 2 | Scratch Panel | Scratch off the silver panel to reveal the 14 to 16 digit recharge code. |
| 3 | Dial USSD Code | Dial *100* followed by the recharge code and #, then press call. |
| Example | Example Code | *100*12345678901234# (then press call) |
| 4 | Credit Added | The credit will be added to your Five SIM balance instantly. |
1. Recharge via Etisalat Recharge Cards (Physical Vouchers)
- Step 1: Purchase an Etisalat recharge card (called “Wasel Charge Card” or “Five Recharge Voucher”) from any convenience store such as Zoom, Carrefour, ENOC petrol stations, telecom shops, or online.
- Step 2: Scratch off the silver panel on the back of the card to reveal the 14 to 16 digit recharge code.
- Step 3: Open your phone’s dialer and enter
*100*followed immediately by the recharge code, then#. - Step 4: Press the call button. Example:
*100*12345678901234# - Step 5: The credit will be added to your Five SIM balance instantly.
2. Online Recharge via Five App or Etisalat Website
- Step 1: Log in to the Five app or visit the Etisalat website.
- Step 2: Navigate to the “Recharge” section.
- Step 3: Select a recharge amount (options typically include AED 25, AED 50, AED 100, etc.).
- Step 4: Choose your payment method (credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay).
- Step 5: Complete the payment.
- Step 6: The credit is applied to your account immediately.
💡 Bonus Tip: Online recharge often offers bonus credit or extra data that is not available with physical recharge cards.
3. Automatic Recharge (Auto Top-Up)
- Step 1: Open the Five app and log into your account.
- Step 2: Navigate to the Auto Top-Up settings.
- Step 3: Set a threshold balance (for example, AED 10).
- Step 4: Set a recharge amount (for example, AED 50).
- Step 5: Save a payment method (credit card, debit card, etc.) for automatic payments.
- Step 6: When your balance falls below the threshold, the system automatically recharges your account using your saved payment method.
💡 Bonus Tip: This feature is particularly useful for users who rely on their Five SIM for business or daily communication, as it prevents service interruption.
Five SIM International Roaming and Usage Abroad
Five SIM supports international roaming, allowing you to use your number while traveling outside the UAE.
Activating Roaming on Five SIM
Before traveling, ensure your Five SIM has roaming enabled. Dial *101# and select “International Roaming” from the menu, or enable roaming through the Five app (Settings → Roaming → Enable). You must have sufficient balance to cover roaming charges, as roaming is not covered by your standard local bundle.
Roaming Rates and Destinations
Etisalat offers roaming packages for Five SIM users traveling to popular destinations such as India, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other GCC countries. Daily roaming passes (e.g., AED 30 to AED 50 per day) provide limited data, calls, and SMS. Alternatively, pay-as-you-go roaming is available but significantly more expensive. Check the Etisalat website for the latest roaming rates for your destination.
Checking Your Number While Roaming
USSD codes such as *248# and *101# work on most roaming partner networks, though there may be delays. The Five app works over Wi-Fi or data roaming. The Hesabati portal requires an internet connection but is accessible from anywhere in the world.
Common Five SIM Issues and Troubleshooting
Even the best prepaid services encounter occasional issues. Here are solutions to common Five SIM problems.
USSD Codes Not Working
If *248# or *101# do not respond, ensure you have a network signal. Toggle airplane mode on and off to force the phone to reconnect to the Etisalat network. If you are using a dual-SIM phone, ensure you are dialing from the SIM slot that contains your Five SIM. Restart your phone if the problem persists. If none of these steps work, use the Five app or Hesabati portal as alternatives.
Five App Login Failure
If the Five app fails to detect your SIM automatically, ensure you have an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data). Uninstall and reinstall the app. If you know your number, use the OTP login option instead of automatic detection. If you do not know your number, use a USSD code first to retrieve it, then log in manually.
SIM Card Not Registered or Suspended
If your Five SIM was not properly registered with your Emirates ID, Etisalat may suspend the line after a grace period. To reactivate, visit an Etisalat Business Center with your original Emirates ID and the SIM card. The staff will complete the registration and restore service within minutes.
