How to Transfer Credit in UAE (Du and Etisalat) + Limits

Fadil Ileri
May 18, 2026
11:19 am

Need to send prepaid balance to a friend or family member fast? This quick guide explains Du credit transfer and Etisalat (e&) credit transfer using the most common USSD codes, what you need before you start, and the usual limits and fees you should expect in the UAE.

Before You Transfer: Quick Checklist

To avoid failed transfers, check these basics first:

Both numbers are UAE mobile numbers and active.
Your line is prepaid (most credit transfer services are primarily for prepaid; some plans/restrictions may apply).
You have enough balance to cover the amount plus any service fee (if applicable).
You’re using the correct format for the code (recipient number + amount).

Tip: If you’re transferring from Etisalat, do a quick Etisalat balance check first so you don’t get a “low balance” error during confirmation.

How to Transfer Credit on Du (USSD Code)

The most common way to send prepaid credit on Du is via USSD (dial code). It works on any phone and doesn’t require mobile data.

Du credit transfer code

Dial the following format from your Du prepaid line:

*135*05XXXXXXXX*AMOUNT#

Then press the call button and follow any on-screen confirmation prompts.

Example

If you want to send AED 10 to 0501234567:

*135*0501234567*10#

Common Du credit transfer rules (eligibility & limits)

Exact rules can vary by plan and can change over time, but these are typical conditions you may see:

Minimum transfer amount: usually starts from a small value (often around AED 2–5).
Maximum per transfer: often capped (commonly up to around AED 100–200).
Daily/monthly caps: many plans have total daily or monthly transfer limits.
Fees: a small service fee may apply, depending on your plan and the transfer amount.

If you want a broader reference for rules users commonly look for (limits, requirements, and general UAE telecom info), see UAE credit transfer limits and related guidance.

For the latest official terms and any code updates, refer to the du official website.

How to Transfer Credit on Etisalat (e&) (USSD Code)

Etisalat (e&) also supports quick balance transfer using a dial code.

Etisalat credit transfer code

Dial this format from your Etisalat prepaid line:

*100*05XXXXXXXX*AMOUNT#

Then press the call button and confirm when prompted.

Example

To send AED 5 to 0521234567:

*100*0521234567*5#

Common Etisalat transfer limits & fees

Like Du, Etisalat limits can vary by package. In many cases, you’ll see:

Small minimum amounts (often a few dirhams).
Per-transfer caps (commonly around AED 100–200).
Daily/monthly maximum totals depending on account type.
Possible service fee deducted from the sender’s balance.

Troubleshooting: Why Credit Transfer Fails

If your Du or Etisalat credit transfer isn’t working, these are the most common reasons:

Insufficient balance (amount + any transfer fee).
Incorrect number format (use the full UAE mobile number like 050xxxxxxx / 052xxxxxxx).
Recipient number inactive or not eligible for receiving transfers.
Sender/receiver exceeded limits (daily/monthly cap or max per transaction).
Service temporarily unavailable (try again later or restart your phone).

Safety & Consumer Protection Notes

Only transfer credit to people you trust. If you feel pressured to send balance to an unknown person or suspect a scam, consider reporting it through official channels and reviewing telecom consumer guidance from TDRA consumer protection resources.

FAQs

Can I transfer credit from Du to Etisalat (or Etisalat to Du)?

Most balance transfer services are designed for transfers within the same operator (Du-to-Du, Etisalat-to-Etisalat). Cross-network credit transfer is typically not supported; if you need to help someone on another network, consider alternative options like gifting a recharge voucher or paying via an official top-up channel.

Is Du credit transfer available for postpaid?

Credit transfer is mainly a prepaid feature. Some postpaid plans may offer gifting/add-on options, but the standard USSD credit transfer method usually applies to prepaid accounts.

How long does the credit transfer take?

Usually it’s instant. Both sender and receiver typically receive an SMS confirmation within seconds. If you don’t see confirmation, wait a few minutes and check your balance again.

What should I do if I typed the wrong number?

Stop and double-check before confirming. If the transfer is already completed, telecom operators may not be able to reverse it. Contact your operator’s support as soon as possible and provide the time, amount, and number used.