Planning to Egypt? Consider to have reliable internet access for navigation, looking up information, and staying in touch with loved ones back home. This guide will provide an in-depth look at using Etisalat SIM cards plans as a tourist in Egypt.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Etisalat
Here are some key facts about Etisalat Egypt:
- Founded: 2007
- Services: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE mobile networks, fixed broadband, IPTV, enterprise solutions
- Subscribers: Over 28 million (2022 estimate)
- Network coverage: 99% population coverage
- Stores and outlets: Over 425 owned stores and franchise outlets
- Customer support: 24/7 call center, online chat, social media support in English and Arabic
- Awards: Fastest Mobile Network in Egypt (Ookla 2022), Best Telecom Service (World Communication Awards 2021)
Over the past 15 years, Etisalat Egypt has built a robust network across the country covering urban metropolises as well as rural villages. It provides prepaid and postpaid mobile plans as well as fixed home broadband services.
II. Etisalat Coverage and Speeds in Egypt
1. Etisalat coverage in Egypt
Etisalat claims to cover 99% of Egypt’s population with its 4G/LTE network. Independent test by nperf.com has found Etisalat’s coverage and speeds to be excellent across Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada and other major tourist destinations.
However, it shows weaker coverage in certain remote parts of the Sinai and Western deserts. As a tourist, you’re likely to get excellent coverage and speeds in major cities and tourist sites. But connectivity could be spotty in very remote areas.
2. Etisalat speed
Etisalat is one of the major mobile network operators in Egypt. It provides both mobile and fixed broadband internet services to customers across the country. When it comes to broadband speeds, Etisalat has managed to achieve average download speeds of around 15.3 Mbps in Egypt according to recent speed test results. However, speeds still vary depending on location and demand.
So Etisalat generally provides fast, reliable mobile internet across Egypt’s tourist destinations and urban centers. But travelers going deep into the deserts may face occasional weak spots.
III. Connectivity Options for Travelers in Egypt
As a tourist visiting Egypt, you have a few options to get connected on Etisalat’s network:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid SIM Card | Easy to purchase at airports/shops | Need to swap SIM cards |
| Risk of losing physical SIM | ||
| Pocket Wifi | No SIM swapping needed | Limited device compatibility |
| Instant activation | Internet needed for setup | |
| Roaming on home SIM | Keep existing number | High roaming rates |
| No need to purchase local SIM | Potential for excess roaming charges |
For tourists visiting Egypt, getting an Etisalat prepaid SIM card provides the most convenient cellular connectivity option. Prepaid SIMs can be easily purchased at points of arrival like airports. For maximum flexibility and zero hassle when connecting, an Egypt eSIM bypasses the need to swap a physical SIM card.
IV. Best Etisalat SIM card Plans for Tourists
Etisalat provides a range of prepaid SIM card plans well-suited for tourists traveling to Egypt. Their most attractive options for visitors include the following:
| Bundle Name | Price (EGP) | Price (USD) | Mobile Internet | Local Minutes | International Calls | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traveler 200 | 200 EGP | $6.67 | 7 GB | 100 | 5 | No |
| Traveler 300 | 300 EGP | $10.00 | 12 GB | 250 | 10 | No |
| Traveler 450 | 450 EGP | $15.00 | 25 GB | 250 | 20 | Yes (3x) |
| Traveler 600 | 600 EGP | $20.00 | 40 GB | 400 | 30 | Yes (3x) |
Overall, Etisalat SIM card bundles give international visitors a convenient way to stay connected throughout their trip to Egypt. With plans starting at just 200 EGP tourists have affordable choices that match their budget and needs, whether needing only occasional WhatsApp access or heavy internet use for navigating sites and uploading vacation photos.
V. Does Etisalat Egypt offer eSIM for Tourists?
Yes, Etisalat Egypt does offer eSIM for tourists. They provide eSIM options under their Traveler eSIM plans.
The benefits of eSIM include:
- Convenience of activating a data plan online before traveling to Egypt without needing to purchase a physical SIM card.
- Easily swap between multiple data plans during a longer trip without having multiple SIM cards.
- No worry about losing or damaging a physical SIM card during travel. The eSIM remains securely on the traveler’s device.
- Instantly connects to Etisalat’s 4G LTE network upon arrival without hunting for a SIM vendor in the airport.
Overall, Etisalat eSIM options provide tourists with a hassle-free digital solution for staying connected while exploring Egypt using just their mobile device.
VI. Where To Buy an Etisalat SIM Card/eSIM?
1. Where to buy an Etisalat SIM card in Egypt?
- Etisalat Stores: Etisalat has numerous retail stores located throughout major cities in Egypt where you can purchase a SIM card. Popular stores can be found in airport arrival areas, downtown areas, and shopping malls.
- Etisalat Service Centers: These specialized customer service offices run by Etisalat allow you to buy a SIM and also get assistance with setup, account management, and technical support.
- Cairo International Airport: Upon arriving, a SIM can conveniently be bought in the airport arrival halls right after baggage claim and passport control. Kiosks are clearly marked.
- Online: While traveling, Etisalat SIM cards can be pre-ordered on their website for digital delivery or airport pickup. Some packages include free shipping.
2. Where to buy Egypt Etisalat eSIM
There are a couple different options for purchasing an Etisalat eSIM for travel to Egypt. One option is to purchase directly from the Etisalat Egypt website before departing for your trip.
For maximum flexibility, many travelers opt to purchase their Etisalat eSIM from egyptesim.com. Plans range from single day passes up to 30 day unlimited data packages, starting at very affordable price points. You can browse, choose the plan best suited to your travel dates and needs, then receive the eSIM profile immediately via email and there is no need to find an Etisalat store once in Egypt.
Plans that may interest you!
VII. Activating and Using Etisalat SIM Card
0Activating and using an Etisalat SIM in Egypt is fairly simple:
- Insert the SIM into your unlocked phone’s SIM tray.
- Power on your device and wait for the SIM to be detected.
- Select Etisalat network if prompted to choose a carrier.
- SIM is pre-activated with basic connectivity out of the box.
- Top-up your SIM via vouchers or mobile money to add data packs and calling credit.
- Set the APN as etisalat if you face connectivity issues.
Once configured, you can start using mobile data and make calls as per your plan’s benefits.
XII. FAQs
Does Etisalat offer eSIM for tourists?
No, currently Etisalat only provides physical SIM cards to prepaid users. eSIM support is limited to select postpaid plans only.
Can I use Etisalat SIM card in other countries?
No, Etisalat prepaid SIMs are only valid within Egypt. They cannot be used for roaming outside.
How can I check my data usage on Etisalat?
You can check your data usage by dialing *136# on your Etisalat SIM. This USSD code will show your remaining data balance.
Are there any activation charges for Etisalat SIM card?
`No, Etisalat prepaid SIM cards come pre-activated. You can start using them immediately after purchase without any activation fee.
How long is the Etisalat Tourist SIM MAX valid for?
The Tourist SIM MAX plan has a maximum validity of 90 days from the date of activation. It offers 12GB data over this period.
XIII. Final Words
With Etisalat’s widespread 4G LTE coverage, tourists can conveniently access maps, travel info, social media, messaging, and other online services throughout their stay in Egypt. Just be prepared for the occasional weak spot when visiting extremely remote areas. If your device is eSIM-compatible, Egypt eSIM is a digital solution for a hassle-free trip in Egypt.
