One of the top priorities for travelers arriving in Egypt, after getting through passport control and baggage claim, is getting connected to internet access. Purchasing a SIM card at Cairo Airport provides a very convenient option that allows visitors to instantly gain mobile internet and data services as soon as they land. Alternatively, it is highly recommended to purchase an Egypt eSIM online before your flight even lands, which eliminates the hassle of hunting down a SIM card at the airport. Let’s explore your best option in this guide!
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Cairo Airport?
The three main mobile network operators in Egypt are Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat. All three have kiosks at Cairo Airport, but they are located at the luggage belts. Vodafone and Etisalat are located at luggage belt 4 and 5 and Orange is at luggage belt 1.
Good to know: While buying a SIM card at the airport provides a convenient way to get connected immediately upon arrival in Cairo, you may discover better options by exploring SIM vendors within the city
II. Cairo Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Travelers arriving at Cairo International Airport have a few different network and data package options to choose from when purchasing a local SIM card. The three major networks available are Orange, Vodafone, and WE. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from:
| Network | Package | Data (GB) | Price (EGP) | Price (USD) |
| Orange | FREE MAX 200 + GO 200 | 32GB | 637 EGP | $13.08 |
| FREE MAX 200 + GO 120 | 24GB | 523 EGP | $10.74 | |
| Vodafone | Tourist Line T500 | 30GB | 505 EGP | $10.37 |
| Flex 200 + plus 200 | 31GB | 656 EGP | $13.47 | |
| WE | Basic package | 32GB | 366.99 EGP | $7.54 |
* Prices are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest offerings directly from the providers’ websites or kiosks at the airport.
In summary, travelers have a range of data package options from the major Egyptian networks Orange, Vodafone, and WE. Purchasing a local SIM card at Cairo airport provides a convenient way to stay connected during travel in Egypt.
III. What I Need to Prepare for Getting Egypt SIM Card at Cairo Airport?
Purchasing and setting up a SIM card at Cairo Airport is very quick and straightforward.
- Passport: You must present your passport when buying a SIM card in Egypt. Photocopies are not accepted. The seller will take down some information from your passport.
- Unlocked phone: Your smartphone will need to be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Contact your home carrier prior to travel to unlock your phone if needed.
- SIM card size: Bring your SIM removal tool. Egyptian SIM cards come in standard, micro, and nano sizes. Inform the seller which size you need.
- Data Packages: It’s important to consider the length of your trip and your anticipated data needs. For a short 3-5 day visit, a package offering 5-10GB will likely suffice. If staying 1-2 weeks, 10-20GB packages provide a comfortable amount. Heavy streaming users should opt for unlimited daily data plans.
IV. eSIM Egypt – Alternative to SIM Card at Cairo Airport
Skip the hassle of trying to purchase a SIM card when you land at Cairo International Airport! While airport SIM kiosks promise connectivity convenience, travelers often endure long lines and pay inflated prices that don’t match local rates. For a simpler solution, pre-purchase an Egypt eSIM online from EgypteSIM.com before your trip.
Simply download the eSIM profile via email and you’ll have internet access right away – without ever having to swap SIM cards. Say goodbye to roaming fees and uneven coverage as Egypt eSIM gives you unrestricted access to high-speed 4G/LTE networks across Egypt.
Plans that may interest you!
V. FAQs
Can you get SIM card at Cairo airport?
Yes, both Orange, Etisalat, Vodafone and WE have SIM card kiosks located after customs and baggage claim inside the airport.
Is there free wifi in Cairo airport?
There is free basic WiFi provided throughout Cairo airport’s terminals. However, it can occasionally be slow or disconnected.
Can I use mobile data right away with my new SIM card?
Yes, you will be able to connect to the mobile data network right away using your new SIM if you have an unlocked phone. Be sure to purchase a data package when you buy your SIM.
Do I need to show ID other than my passport?
Your passport is the only identification required to purchase an Egyptian SIM card as a foreign traveler.
How much are Egypt SIM cards at the airport?
Expect to pay $6.5-$13.5 for basic starter packs. Airport SIM prices are usually higher than retail stores outside the airport.
Can I activate Egypt eSIM at Cairo airport?
Yes, if you have purchased an eSIM package in advance you can activate it upon arrival. However, it’s best to activate your eSIM at least 1 day before landing to ensure connectivity while traveling from the airport to your hotel.
Always check for internet access before attempting activation.
VI. Final Words
While buying a SIM card upon arrival can be convenient, travelers should be aware of some potential downsides to purchasing at Cairo International Airport. The kiosks and storefronts inside tend to charge high prices that don’t reflect local rates in Egypt. Lines can also be long as many passengers flock to buy SIMs right after deplaning. An alternative worth considering is to pre-purchase an Egypt eSIM before your trip.
