You do not have to switch from D* to get E* International programing, if you buy your E* equipment at full msrp and either self install or pay to have it installed. All Arabic programing is now on 61.5 and 148, all you need is a Dish300 or 500 pointed to one of these locations. If you do not sub to a basic DF, AT, DL or GW package from E*, you simply pay a $6/mo access fee plus the subscription to the International channel or package of channels of your choice.
If you switch to E* however, you can get free equipment and installation, by leasing your equipment and sub to a basic programing package starting from $19.99/mo.