SIM Cards

The best 4 SIM card providers in Egypt in 2026

Find which Egypt SIM card is best for your needs and compare the top SIM card providers in Egypt, including Vodafone, Orange, e& (Etisalat), and WE Telecom. We also look at eSIM alternatives for travelers who prefer the convenience of going digital.

cintia

Written by Cintia Soto Tomeu

Updated: Oct 20, 2025
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Looking for the best Egypt SIM card? You’re in the right place. In this guide, we compare the top SIM card providers in Egypt, including Vodafone, Orange, e& (Etisalat), and WE, together with their coverage, pricing, and customer review ratings.

Staying connected in Egypt is more important than ever, with 73% of the population already online. That’s why we also review top Egypt eSIM options, like Holafly, Yesim, and Nomad, for travelers who prefer the convenience of a digital setup.

If you’re looking for other ways to stay connected in the country, check out our articles on pocket Wi-Fi Egypt, roaming in Egypt, and mobile internet in Egypt.

Top SIM card providers for Egypt

There are four local SIM card providers for Egypt in 2025: Vodafone, Orange, e& (Etisalat), and WE Telecom. Roami tested each package by examining its user experience, coverage, data allowance, and features to discover which is the best value for money. Read more about our testing criteria.

Data disclaimer: All data in this review is accurate as of September 28, 2025, and can change thereafter.

1. Vodafone Egypt

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (Ana Vodafone app rating on Google Play)
  • Pricing: Starts at E£ 5 EGP ( ~$0.11 USD) for 150 MB for 28 days
  • Coverage: 5G in 21 major cities; 2G, 3G, 4G, and 4G+ in other areas
  • Calls/SMS: Offered in some plans

Vodafone Egypt is the country’s largest mobile network operator with extensive 4G and 4G+ coverage across Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, and several other tourist destinations in Egypt. Vodafone Egypt offers prepaid plans for data, calls, and SMS, with internet bundles renewing every 28 days.

See Vodafone Egypt’s coverage below:

Vodafone mobile network coverage map in Egypt. Source: nperf.com

Below are some data-only plans offered by Vodafone:

Data allowanceDuration (before plan renewal)Price
150 MB28 daysE£ 5 EGP (~$0.11 USD)*
500 MB28 daysE£ 10 (~$.021)
1,100 MB28 daysE£ 20 (~$0.42)
1,800 MB28 daysE£ 30 (~$0.63)
2,500 MB28 daysE£ 40 (~$0.84)
4,000 MB28 daysE£ 60 (~$1.26)
6,000 MB28 daysE£ 80 (~$1.68)
8,000 MB28 daysE£ 100 (~$2.10)
12,000 MB28 daysE£ 150 (~$3.15)
20,000 MB28 daysE£ 250 (~$5.25)
40,000 MB28 daysE£ 400 (~$8.40)

*E£1 EGP = $0.02101 USD

2. e& (Etisalat)

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (My e& app rating on Google Play)
  • Pricing: Traveler plans start at E£ 200 (~$4.20) for 7 GB, 100 local minutes, and 5 international calls
  • Coverage: 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G+, and 5G
  • Calls/SMS: Yes

e& Egypt, formerly known as Etisalat, is a telecommunications provider operating under the UAE-based e& Group. The company entered the Egyptian market in 2007 and offers mobile, internet, and business communication services.

It provides 2G, 3G, and 4G connectivity across the country and has been expanding its 5G infrastructure. In addition to mobile services, e& Egypt offers broadband, digital payment, and enterprise solutions.

See e&’s coverage below:

e& (Etisalat) mobile network coverage map in Egypt. Source: nperf.com

e& offers the following data and voice bundles specifically for travelers:

Bundle nameData allowanceLocal minutesInternational callsPrice
Traveler 2007 GB1005E£ 200 (~$4.20)
Traveler 30012 GB25010E£ 300 (~$6.30)
Traveler 45025 GB25020E£ 450 (~$9.45)
Traveler 60040 GB40030E£ 600 (~$12.61)

Note: Traveler 200 and Traveler 300 are not renewable, while Traveler 450 and Traveler 600 are renewable up to three times only.

3. Orange Egypt

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (My Orange Egypt rating on Apple App Store)
  • Pricing: Starts at E£ 20 (~$0.42) for 1 GB and 30 minutes
  • Coverage: 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G+, and 5G
  • Calls/SMS: Yes

Orange is the country’s first mobile network operator, established in 1998. The company provides a full range of telecommunications services, including mobile plans, internet packages, and business solutions for individuals and enterprises across Egypt.

See Orange Egypt’s coverage below:

Orange mobile network coverage map in Egypt. Source: nperf.com

Below are some mobile internet plans offered by Orange Egypt:

Plan nameData allowanceMinutes to Orange numbersPrice
GO 201,000 MB30 minutesE£ 20 (~$0.42)
GO 321,750 MB30 minutesE£ 32 (~$0.67)
GO 503,250 MB30 minutesE£ 50 (~$1.05)
GO 805,500 MB30 minutesE£ 80 (~$1.68)
GO 1057,250 MB30 minutesE£ 105 (~$2.21)
GO 15511,500 MB30 minutesE£ 155 (~$3.26)
GO 26020,000 MB30 minutesE£ 260 (~$5.46)
GO 39031,500 MB30 minutesE£ 390 (~$8.19)
GO 52049,000 MB30 minutesE£ 520 (~$10.92)

4. WE

  • Rating: 3.1/5 (My We app rating on Google Play)
  • Pricing: Nitro Prime line starts at E£ 13 (~$0.27) for 781 MB for 28 days
  • Coverage: 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G+, and 5G
  • Calls/SMS: Offered in some plans

WE, launched in 2017 by Telecom Egypt, is the country’s fourth mobile network operator. It provides 2G, 3G, and 4G services nationwide and is expanding into 5G following its 2024 license approval.

As part of Telecom Egypt, WE also offers broadband, landline, and digital solutions, making it a fully integrated telecom provider.

WE mobile network coverage map in Egypt. Source: nperf.com

Some mobile internet bundles offered by WE include their Nitro Prime line below:

Plan nameData allowanceDurationPrice
Nitro Prime 13781 MB28 daysE£ 13 (~$0.27)
Nitro Prime 251,718 MB28 daysE£ 25 (~$0.53)
Nitro Prime 504,062 MB28 daysE£ 50 (~$1.05)
Nitro Prime 907,812 MB28 daysE£ 90 (~$1.89)
Nitro Prime 13012,500 MB28 daysE£ 130 (~$2.73)
Nitro Prime 26029,375 MB28 daysE£ 260 (~$5.46)
Nitro Prime 58562,500 MB90 daysE£ 585 (~$12.29)

Why get a SIM card in Egypt?

A local SIM card is one of the most reliable ways to stay connected while traveling in Egypt. It ensures you have access to mobile data, whether you’re navigating Cairo’s busy streets or exploring ancient sites along the Nile.

Key benefits of getting a SIM card in Egypt:

  • Save money on roaming charges: Data roaming can be very expensive. A local SIM card gives you affordable access to high-speed data throughout your trip.
  • Stay safe online: Public Wi-Fi networks in Egypt are not always secure. With a SIM card, your connection is more private, which reduces the risk of hackers and identity theft.
  • Access essential travel apps: From Google Maps to translation tools, a SIM card ensures you can use the apps you need to navigate, communicate, and explore with confidence.
  • Convenience on the go: Whether you’re looking up restaurant reviews, booking tickets, or messaging family back home, you’ll always have reliable internet in your pocket.

While free Wi-Fi might seem convenient, coverage in Egypt can be patchy and unreliable, especially at historic landmarks and in remote areas. A SIM card provides dependable connectivity and better peace of mind throughout your journey.

Although purchasing one may take a little effort, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it the best choice for travelers who want affordable, secure, and uninterrupted access to the internet.

An eSIM may be more practical and convenient in some cases, but a traditional SIM card gives you wider availability in Egypt and the assurance that you’ll stay connected wherever you go.

How much does a SIM card cost in Egypt?

The cost of a SIM card in Egypt depends on the provider, data allowance, and whether the plan includes calls or international minutes. Based on 2025 data, basic prepaid SIM cards start at around E£ 5 EGP (~$0.11 USD) for small data bundles, while traveler and high-data plans can go up to E£ 600 (~$12.61).

Here’s a comparison of prices by provider:

ProviderExample planInclusionsDurationPrice (EGP)Approx. price (USD)
Vodafone EgyptBasic data plan150 MB28 daysE£ 5$0.11
Vodafone EgyptHeavy data plan40,000 MB28 daysE£ 400$8.40
e& (Etisalat)Traveler 2007 GB + 100 local min + 5 international calls28 daysE£ 200$4.20
e& (Etisalat)Traveler 60040 GB + 400 local min + 30 international calls28 daysE£ 600$12.61
Orange EgyptGO 201,000 MB + 30 min to Orange numbers28 daysE£ 20$0.42
Orange EgyptGO 52049,000 MB + 30 min to Orange numbers28 daysE£ 520$10.92
WE TelecomNitro Prime 13781 MB28 daysE£ 13$0.27
WE TelecomNitro Prime 58562,500 MB90 daysE£ 585$12.29

Overall, Egypt offers some of the most affordable mobile data rates in the Middle East and North Africa. Travelers can stay connected with 4G or 5G speeds for under $15 per month, making local SIM cards a cost-effective option compared to international roaming.

How to purchase and activate a SIM card in Egypt?

There are three main ways to get a prepaid local SIM card in Egypt: at the airport, at a local store, or online. Each option has its own pros and cons, so the best choice depends on your priorities.

1. Buying at the airport

Cairo International Airport has booths for Vodafone, Orange, e& (Etisalat), and WE Telecom. The kiosks are easy to spot, and staff will usually activate your SIM in 10–15 minutes.

  • Pros: Quick setup on arrival; staff usually assist with registration and activation.
  • Cons: Slightly higher prices than city stores; plan details can sometimes be unclear.

If you choose this option, research data plans in advance so you know what to ask for.

2. Buying at a local store

All four major providers also operate retail shops throughout Egypt:

These stores usually offer cheaper rates than airport kiosks and provide the same activation service.

  • Pros: Lower cost than airport kiosks; access to the full range of plans and promotions.
  • Cons: Harder to reach without mobile data; English may not be widely spoken.

Unless you know the area well, buying at the airport is generally more straightforward.

3. Buying online

The most hassle-free option is to order a SIM card from an Egyptian provider before your trip. While it requires waiting for international shipping, it’s often cheaper than airport prices and lets you arrive in Egypt with data ready to go.

  • Pros: Peace of mind knowing your SIM is ready on arrival; usually cheaper than airport prices.
  • Cons: Delivery can take time; less flexibility if you want to change or upgrade your plan after arrival.

Activation process for Egypt SIM card

Activating a SIM card in Egypt is relatively simple, but it always requires proper registration. By law, you’ll need to provide a valid passport, and the provider will use it to register your SIM under your name.

This process helps prevent fraud and ensures your number is officially tied to your identity. Once registered, staff typically handle most of the setup for you. They will insert the SIM into your phone, check your device settings, and make sure calls, texts, and mobile data are working before you leave.

Activation is usually immediate, though in some cases it may take up to 30 minutes for the network to fully recognize your new SIM.

Steps for Egypt SIM card activation:

  1. Present your passport at the kiosk or store for registration.
  2. Choose a prepaid plan that fits your data and call needs.
  3. Staff insert the SIM card and adjust mobile network settings if needed.
  4. Wait a few minutes for the SIM to connect to the network.
  5. Test your phone by making a call or using mobile data before leaving.

eSIMs as alternatives to local SIM cards in Egypt

An eSIM is a convenient alternative to local SIM cards in Egypt. They let you skip store visits and paperwork, and give you instant access to mobile data through a quick eSIM QR code or app setup.

In this guide, we look at Holafly, Yesim, and Nomad, including their starting price, coverage, and customer review rating.

1. Holafly

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Trustpilot)
  • Pricing: Starts at $7.90 USD for 1 day of unlimited data
  • Coverage: Orange Egypt network
  • Calls/SMS: No

Holafly is an eSIM provider known for its unlimited data plans with coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide. It offers a flexible validity period from 1 to 90 days and 24/7 live chat customer support, so you can stay connected with the support you need, as long as you need it.

You can also request a Holafly refund within six months after purchase, giving you peace of mind and confidence when buying ahead of your trip.

Some plans offered by Holafly include:

Data allowanceDurationPrice
Unlimited1 day$7.90
Unlimited5 days$29.90
Unlimited10 days$39.90
Unlimited15 days$50.90
Unlimited30 days$93.90
Unlimited60 days$191.90
Unlimited90 days$288.90

2. Yesim

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Trustpilot)
  • Pricing: Starts at $7.20 for 1 day of unlimited data
  • Coverage: Seamless connectivity in major cities in Egypt, including Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, Port Said, Suez, Tanta, Al Mahallah Al Kubra, Halwan, Madinat As Sadis Min Uktubar, and Shubra Al Khaymah
  • Calls/SMS: No

Yesim is an eSIM provider with coverage in over 200 destinations and more than 2 million users worldwide. It also offers virtual numbers, loyalty programs, and referral programs, with 24/7 customer support.

A Yesim refund can be processed if the refund request is made within 30 days of purchase, as long as your data plan hasn’t been used or hasn’t expired.

Some plans offered by Yesim include:

Data allowanceDurationPrice
Unlimited1 day$7.20
Unlimited7 days$30
Unlimited30 days$66
10 GB30 days$20.40
20 GB30 days$24
30 GB30 days$32.40

3. Nomad

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Trustpilot)
  • Pricing: Starts at $6 for 1 GB for 7 days
  • Coverage: Orange Egypt network
  • Calls/SMS: No

Nomad is an eSIM provider with coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide. It offers its users up to 50% savings on roaming, 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, and a free trial eSIM with 1 GB for new users. 

To get a Nomad refund, you must submit your request within 30 days of purchase.

Some plans offered by Nomad include:

Data allowanceDurationPrice
Unlimited3 days$11
Unlimited5 days$17
Unlimited7 days$23
Unlimited10 days$31
1 GB7 days$6
3 GB30 days$11
5 GB30 days$17
10 GB30 days$25
20 GB30 days$35

The best SIM card providers in Egypt FAQ

Where to buy a data-only SIM card in Egypt?

You have a few options available to you. The first is to buy a data-only SIM card at the airport. Cairo Airport has kiosks for each of the four main SIM providers in the country (Vodafone, Orange, e& or Etisalat, and WE).
Another option is to visit a physical store owned by these companies in Egypt, although it might be hard to find your way without a map. Lastly, you can order online, the best option for local SIMs, but expect to wait a while for international shipping.

What is the price of SIM cards in Egypt?

Prices can vary, but in general, all local Egypt SIMs are very affordable. You'll rarely pay more than $15, even for large data packages, although this could vary in airports.

The only concern with local SIMs is the logistics of obtaining them. You may need to pay a considerable amount for express shipping, which could impact affordability.

How much does roaming cost in Egypt?

Prices vary depending on your location. If you’re travelling from the US, expect to pay around $10 per day, or $70 per week, with providers like Verizon and AT&T.

T-Mobile also offers Magenta and Magenta Plus plans, which provide great coverage for $40–$47. In the UK, you’ll usually pay £5 per day with O2 and Three, or £6 a day with Vodafone.

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Adventurer, passionate traveler, and tech enthusiast. On Roami, I aim at sharing the best solutions to help you navigate the complexities of staying connected abroad, ensuring a hassle-free experience. I enjoy playing chess, reading Brian Greene, and exploring different cultures!

The best eSIM for traveling in Egypt with a 5% discount. Use the code MYROAMI
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