Similar to EIM’s Dial ‘n’ Surf access service, the pre-paid scratch card allows users to simply plug a computer in to any telephone line for access to the Internet without the need for a subscription. The key difference of the pre-paid model is that time spent on the Internet will not be charged to the telephone bill, but will be deducted from the pre-paid scratch card. Users will therefore not only be spared the inconvenience of settling the bill, but they will also be able to control their expenditures and manage their Internet Budgets more effectively.
Charges for the service will be the same as Dial ‘n’ Surf, which stands at nine dirhams per hour. To access the Internet services, the user instructs his computer to dial ‘128’ immediately followed by the 14 digit scratch card number.
To ensure a smooth introduction to the service, EIM has integrated the service into the existing Etisalat pre-paid scratch cards that are already widely in use for Etisalat’s voice services. The scratch card can be purchased with a set amount of credits, which are available at Dhs 30 from the familiar distribution outlets. Credits purchased on the cards can be used for both voice and Internet services.
Primarily targeted toward the business traveler and tourist, pre-paid access is designed for users who require access to the Internet without a permanent subscription. Although this is currently possible with Dial ‘n’ Surf, the pre-paid model is widely used in other countries and is thus more familiar to visitors.
As the number of tourists and business travelers coming to the UAE increases, we felt this service was essential to accommodate that market and their needs, said Abdulla Hashim, Senior Manager, EIM. By adopting this model we aim to make it easier for travelers to use the Internet by introducing an access method they are familiar with. The key advantages will be a pay-as-you-use access service that allows you to know exactly how much you are spending and can be accessed from any phone line. Users do not receive a bill and can therefore budget for the Internet more effectively.
The pre-paid access is a new addition to EIM’s range of Internet access packages that have been designed for every Internet requirement in the UAE. Other access packages offered by EIM include BusinessOne, Al Shamil, Dial-up, Leased line, Internet Roaming and ISDN/Lan connect.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
