Prepaid Pakistan SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide
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Pakistan SIM cards offer tourists an easy way to stay connected while exploring this vibrant country.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about Pakistan SIM cards for tourists. From choosing the best SIM card options and where to buy them to understanding the costs and activation process, this article ensures you have all the essential information for smooth communication during your trip to Pakistan.
In this article
I. What are the Best Pakistan SIM Cards for Tourists?
Good to know: 1.000 PKR = 3.58 USD (August 2024)
There are four mobile carriers in Pakistan:
- Ufone
- Zong
- Telenor
- Jazz
Here are the best SIM card options for tourists in Pakistan:
1. Ufone Pakistan SIM Cards
| Package | Price (PKR) | Data | Minutes | SMS | Equivalent Price (USD) |
| Basic Plan | 570 | 1.2 GB | 150 + 1,000 Ufone | 4,000 | $2.05 |
| Standard Plan | 599 | 2 GB | 180 + Unlimited Ufone | 4,200 | $2.15 |
| Premium Plan | 999 | 5 GB | 300 + Unlimited Ufone | 5,000 | $3.58 |
| 7-Day Add-on | 175 | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | $0.63 |
| 30-Day Add-on | 499 | 13 GB | N/A | N/A | $1.79 |
The Ufone SIM card costs 250 PKR ($0.9) for activation.
Note: You should visit Ufone official website for the latest updates.
2. Zong Pakistan SIM Cards
| Plan | Data | Minutes | SMS | Price (PKR) | Price (USD) | Minimum Deposit (PKR) | Minimum Deposit (USD) |
| Basic Postpaid Plan | 2 GB | 300 | 1,000 | 672 | $2.41 | 1,000 | $3.58 |
| Standard Postpaid Plan | 6 GB | 500 | 2,000 | 1,075 | $3.85 | 2,000 | $7.16 |
| Premium Postpaid Plan | 15 GB | 800 | 4,000 | 1,615 | $5.78 | 3,000 | $10.74 |
| Ultimate Postpaid Plan | 35 GB | 1,200 | 5,000 | 3,361 | $12.04 | 5,000 | $17.90 |
| Add-on: 3 GB Data | 3 GB | – | – | 250 | $0.89 | – | – |
| Add-on: 10 GB Data | 10 GB | – | – | 600 | $2.15 | – | – |
| Add-on: 20 GB Data | 20 GB | – | – | 1,000 | $3.58 | – | – |
Notes:
- Zong offers only postpaid plans for tourists with foreign passports.
- The minimum deposit is required to activate postpaid plans, which can be used as credit.
- You should visit Zong official website for the latest updates.
3. Telenor Pakistan SIM Cards
| Package | Data Allowance | Validity | Price (PKR) | Price (USD) |
| Package 1 | 4 GB | 7 days | 110 PKR | $0.39 |
| Package 2 | 8 GB | 7 days | 185 PKR | $0.66 |
| Package 3 | 30 GB + 5,000 minutes (15 GB from 1 am-1 pm) | 7 days | 265 PKR | $0.95 |
| Package 4 | 20 GB (10 GB from 12 am-8 am) | 30 days | 450 PKR | $1.61 |
| Package 5 | 18 GB + 5,000 minutes (9 GB from 1 am-1 pm) | 30 days | 715 PKR | $2.56 |
Note: You should visit Telenor’s official website for the latest updates.
4. Jazz Pakistan SIM Cards
| Plan | Cost (PKR) | Cost (USD) | Data | Minutes | SMS | Validity |
| Jazz Weekly Plan 1 | 260 | $0.93 | 12 GB | 70 | 5,000 | 7 days |
| Jazz Monthly Plan 1 | 636 | $2.28 | 7 GB | 150 | 3,000 | 30 days |
| Jazz Monthly Plan 2 | 800 | $2.86 | 15 GB | 150 | 5,000 | 30 days |
| Data Only Weekly Plan 1 | 240 | $0.86 | 12 GB (6 GB 2am-2pm) | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| Data Only Weekly Plan 2 | 290 | $1.04 | 20 GB (10 GB 2am-2pm) | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| Data Only Monthly Plan | 525 | $1.88 | 20 GB (10 GB 2am-2pm) | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
Notes:
- Data plans may have time-based restrictions (e.g., certain GBs available only during specific hours).
- The cost for eSIM activation is an additional $8 USD.
- You should visit Jazz’s official website for the latest updates.
II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Pakistan for Tourists?
There are three main options:
1. Buy Pakistan SIM Card Online
Where? You can buy a Pakistan SIM card online through international SIM card providers.
How? Buy the SIM card online, and it will be delivered to your home before your trip.
Pros:
- Convenient, delivered to your home.
- Ready to use upon arrival.
- Avoids long lines at the airport.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to local options.
- Limited data plans.
- No local customer support in Pakistan.
2. Buy SIM Card at Pakistan Airports
Where? SIM cards are available at key airport locations:
- Jinnah International Airport, Karachi: Available at the baggage claim area.
- Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore: Sold at kiosks near the arrival gate.
- Islamabad International Airport: Found at counters in the arrivals hall.
How? Present your passport and take a portrait photo. The process might seem complicated, but the SIM card is activated quickly.
Pros:
- Immediate access to a local SIM upon arrival.
- Various data plans available.
Cons:
- Higher prices compared to buying in the city.
- The registration process can be time-consuming.
3. Buy SIM Card in Pakistan’s Cities
Where? Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad offer multiple locations to buy SIM cards:
- Karachi: Saddar Market and Clifton area have many mobile shops.
- Lahore: SIM cards are available at Hafeez Center, a popular electronics market.
- Islamabad: F-7 Markaz and Blue Area are common spots.
How? Visit a mobile network operator’s store (e.g., Jazz, Zong, Telenor) with your passport.
Pros:
- Lower prices than at the airport.
- Greater choice of data plans.
Cons:
- You need to navigate the city to find a store.
- Registration process required.
III. How Much is a Tourist Pakistan SIM Card?
A tourist SIM card in Pakistan generally costs between PKR 500 to PKR 1,500 (approximately $1.70 to $5.10 USD). Here’s a breakdown by provider:
- Ufone: Packages start at PKR 600 ($2.04 USD) for 2GB, with higher plans up to PKR 1,200 ($4.08 USD) for more data and call time.
- Telenor: Prices range from PKR 500 to PKR 1,200 ($1.70 to $4.08 USD), offering 1.5GB to 5GB.
- Zong: SIM cards cost PKR 550 to PKR 1,500 ($1.87 to $5.10 USD), with plans offering 2GB to 8GB.
- Jazz: Prices range from PKR 600 to PKR 1,500 ($2.04 to $5.10 USD), providing 2GB to 10GB.
These prices vary depending on the plan and the amount of data, calls, and SMS included. All SIM cards require registration with your passport before use.
IV. What types of Pakistan SIM cards are available for tourists?
There are 2 main types of SIM cards available for tourists in Pakistan:
- Prepaid SIM
- Tourist eSIM
Comparison Table
| Criteria | Prepaid SIM | Tourist eSIM |
| Convenience | Available at stores and airports | Buy online, no physical card needed |
| Compatibility | Unlocked phones | eSIM-compatible phones |
| How to Use | Insert SIM, activate in store | Scan QR code, instant activation |
In conclusion, while prepaid SIM cards are super easy to get and cost-effective, eSIMs bring way more convenience and are simpler to set up. For tourists looking for a smooth experience, an eSIM could be the better choice.
V. Do I need a SIM card to travel to Pakistan?
Absolutely, getting a SIM card while traveling to Pakistan is a smart move. Here’s why you should consider it:
- Stay Connected: A SIM card lets you make calls and texts easily.
- Internet on the Go: Keep your navigation and research handy, plus share your adventures in real-time.
- Budget-Friendly: SIMs are usually more affordable than using international roaming.
- Quick Access to Help: Reach emergency services effortlessly if needed.
- Local Presence: A local number makes booking services or contacting businesses easier.
VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Pakistan?
To buy a SIM card in Pakistan, you must prepare several important items. Here’s what you should have ready:
- Your passport
- A local address in Pakistan (such as your hotel)
- A passport-sized photograph
- Cash for payment (credit cards aren’t always accepted)
- An unlocked phone compatible with Pakistani networks
Remember, buying a SIM card in Pakistan involves registration and verification procedures. These can be time-consuming for tourists.
To avoid these procedures, consider buying an eSIM if your phone supports it. eSIMs can often be set up before travel, saving time and hassle.
VII. Pakistan eSIM – Alternative to Tourist SIM cards
Gigago, one of the largest and most reliable eSIM retailers in the market, offers eSIM solutions for travelers to Pakistan. You’ll get a bunch of benefits below if getting one here:
- Wide coverage throughout Pakistan
- Service provided by Zong carrier, a strong local mobile network operator
- 4G/LTE/5G speeds (with unlimited data at 128kbps after max-speed data usage)
- Hotspot/tethering capability
- Instant delivery via email within 10 minutes of purchase
- Easy installation by scanning a QR code
- Automatic activation when connected to a supported cellular network
For Pakistan, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 3 days with $4.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Pakistan eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $4.50 – $35.50 .
Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are or how long your trip in Pakistan is; with Gigago, there is always an option for you.
VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Pakistan?
A tourist SIM card in Pakistan typically lasts for different durations based on the telecom provider:
- Ufone: Validity ranges from 7 days to 30 days.
- Zong: Commonly available options are 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days.
- Jazz: Offers validity periods of 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days.
- Telenor: SIM cards generally last for 7 days to 30 days.
These durations are popular among tourists and cover the basic needs for short to medium-length stays. Make sure to check with each provider for the most updated plans and specific validity options.
IX. How to activate a SIM card in Pakistan?
Here’s a general guide on how to activate a SIM card in Pakistan:
Step 1: Purchase a SIM card.
Step 2: Provide valid identification (usually a CNIC – Computerized National Identity Card).
Step 3: Fill out a subscriber agreement form. Submit biometric verification (typically a thumbprint).
Step 4: Wait for the activation process (usually within a few hours).
Step 5: Insert the SIM card into your phone and power it on.
Step 6: Follow any additional instructions provided by your mobile operator.
Some unique notes or tips related to activating Pakistan SIM cards:
- Biometric verification is required for SIM card activation in Pakistan.
- Foreigners usually need to show a passport and visa.
- Some operators allow online SIM activation, but you must verify in person.
- Always buy SIM cards from authorized dealers to prevent fraud.
X. FAQs
What types of Pakistan SIM cards are available for tourists?
Tourists can choose between prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs from major providers like Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone. Prepaid options are more common, while eSIMs offer convenience for compatible devices.
Can I call other countries through my Pakistan SIM card?
Yes, you can make international calls using a Pakistan SIM card, but rates vary by provider. You may need to activate international calling services through your provider’s app or customer service.
Will the Pakistan SIM card work with my phone?
To use a Pakistan SIM card, your phone needs to be unlocked and compatible with GSM networks (2G, 3G, 4G/LTE). Major providers like Jazz, Zong, and Telenor support these standards.
How to recharge my Pakistan SIM card?
You can recharge your SIM card using scratch cards, via mobile apps of the SIM providers (Jazz, Telenor, etc.), or through digital payment systems like JazzCash and EasyPaisa.
XI. Conclusion
I hope this guide has made it easier for you to navigate Pakistan SIM cards! Whether you choose a prepaid SIM or an eSIM, staying connected while you travel is super simple and convenient. For a smooth experience, check out Gigago’s Pakistan eSIM – just scan and go! Take a look at Gigago’s flexible plans to keep you connected throughout your journey.