How to Get and Activate Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM: 2024 Guide for Tourists

Daisy Rodriguez

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Latest update: October 2024

Qatar travel is a wonderful experience for all tourists. However, having difficulty connecting to the internet can be a disruption that affects your experience in Qatar. This article will provide key information about Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM of Vodafone network – the most popular network in Qatar to help you stay connected with friends and family back home.

I. Overview about Vodafone – What you need to know

Vodafone Group plc  is a British multinational telecommunications company. Its registered office and global headquarters are in Newbury, Berkshire, England. It predominantly operates services in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania.

• Founded Year: Vodafone was founded in 1985.

• Full Company Name: Vodafone Group Plc.

• Brand Name: Vodafone. The brand name is a combination of “voice” and “data,” reflecting the company’s focus on telecommunications services.

• Types of Services Provided: Mobile voice and data plans, mobile internet, messaging services, mobile broadband, fixed-line services, enterprise solutions, IoT (Internet of Things) services, and digital content.

• Number of Subscribers: Over 300 million mobile customers across its global operations.

II. Vodafone Coverage in Qatar

• Broad 4G bandwidth on most popular frequencies
• Extensive 4G coverage in major cities and suburbs
• 4G Coverage: Available in key population areas

III. Vodafone Speed in Qatar

• Download Speed Experience: approximately 40.4Mbps
• Upload Speed Experience: about 9.8Mbps.

Vodafone mobile network allow traveler enjoy their trip with hassle-free experience

IV. Does Vodafone have eSIM in Qatar?

For sure. Qatar eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a type of SIM card that is built directly into a device. Unlike traditional SIM cards that are physical, removable cards, eSIMs are integrated into the device’s hardware or firmware.

• Improved User Experience: eSIM eliminates the need for physical SIM card handling, making it more convenient for users to switch between mobile networks or add new subscriptions.

• QR Code or App Activation: eSIM activation typically involves scanning a QR code or using a dedicated app provided by the mobile network operator. 
• Profile Management: With eSIM, you can store multiple SIM profiles on a single device and switch between them as needed. 

• Device Compatibility: eSIM is supported by an increasing number of smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other connected devices. 

V. Top Vodafone SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

The cost of a Vodafone prepaid SIM card in Qatar is 10 QAR. Once you have the SIM card, you can choose from various available packages to top up your balance. Here are the options:

• 3 GB data + 120 minutes = 30 QAR
• 4 GB data + 200 minutes = 50 QAR
• 8 GB data + 240 minutes = 60 QAR (approximately $16 USD)
• 16 GB data + 360 minutes = 100 QAR (approximately $27.5 USD)
• 24 GB data + 750 minutes = 150 QAR

Vodafone provides both physical prepaid SIM cards and eSIM cards for tourists, offering flexibility and convenience. For more detailed information, please visit the Vodafone Qatar website.

VI. Where to Buy a Vodafone SIM card and eSIM?

We will explore three different avenues for obtaining a Vodafone SIM card: upon arrival, Vodafone stores, and other authorized retail stores. 

1.Upon Arrival:  

Vodafone often has kiosks or dedicated counters at major airports, making it easy to acquire a SIM card right after landing. 

2. Vodafone Stores

Vodafone operates numerous retail stores across various countries, providing a reliable and direct source for purchasing SIM cards. 

Visiting a Vodafone store allows you to interact with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the available options and help you choose the most suitable plan for your needs. 

3. Other Authorized Retail Stores

Authorized retail outlets also offer Vodafone SIM cards. These can include electronics stores, mobile phone shops, and convenience stores. 

Gigago is a reliable Vodafone’s retail provider. You can explore all Vodafone packages with cheap prices which can be up your expectations. With Gigago, you also have additional benefits: 

• 100% online
• No passport
• No ID card
• No waiting for SIM delivery
• Easy setup ( just scan QR)
• Have the internet as soon as arriving in Qatar.

For Qatar, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $5.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Qatar eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.50 – $53.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Qatar, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VII. How to Top-up Vodafone SIM/eSIM

To top up your Vodafone SIM card, you have several options:

• My Vodafone app: Download the My Vodafone app and easily top up with just a tap. You can find the app on both Apple and Android devices.

• Online: Visit the Vodafone top-up portal and fill in a few details to complete your top-up up.

• By phone: Call 2345 free from your Vodafone Pay as you go phone and follow the instructions to top up.

• By text: Text TOPUP to 2345 with the amount you want to add and the last four digits of your payment card. For example, text TOPUP 10 1234 to add $10 USD using a card ending in 1234.

• Top up automatically: You can set up automatic top-up to ensure you’re always topped up. Download the My Vodafone app and choose “Top up” from the main menu, then select “Auto Top up.” Alternatively, call 18829 (free from your Vodafone Pay as you go mobile) to register and make your initial top-up. Choose how often you want your top-up to automatically activate – weekly, monthly, or every 30 days.

VIII. FAQs about Vodafone in Qatar

IX. Conclusion.

In conclusion, we hope this guide has been helpful for tourists traveling to Qatar. With Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM, tourists can ensure a smooth and seamless mobile experience while exploring their destination. So, get ready to enjoy your travels with Vodafone’s convenient connectivity solutions!