Etisalat SIM Cards & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate

Claudia Anderson

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Latest update: August 2024

Etisalat is one of the four major telecommunications networks in Egypt. In addition to providing telecommunications services, it is also a brand that tourists often choose to purchase SIM cards and eSIMs.

In this article, let’s explore information about this network, Etisalat SIM Cards & eSIM, reasons why we should choose it when in Egypt, and some details about prices and suitable packages!

I. Overview about Etisalat – What you need to know

Etisalat Misr is a subsidiary of Etisalat Group, a multinational telecom company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).  Etisalat operates in multiple countries, and its Egyptian subsidiary, Etisalat Misr, is a key player in the Egyptian telecommunications market. Etisalat is known for offering SIM cards and eSIMs, making it convenient for travelers to stay connected while in Egypt.

• Service Launch Year: 1976
• Types of Services Provided: Fixed line and mobile telephony, Internet services, digital television.
• Operational Areas: 16 countries.
• Network of Stores, Agents, Sales Points: Airports, major towns, and some suburban areas in Egypt specifically.
• Customer Care Policy: Reputation for reliability, quality, highly rated.
• Recent award: Egypt’s Speedtest Awards Winner for mobile network speed during Q1-Q2 2023.

II. Etisalat Coverage in Egypt

Etisalat has a comprehensive network coverage across the country. The coverage includes urban areas, towns, and many rural regions. 

According to a statistical report from the new Opensignal website in September 2023, Etisalat ranked first in coverage and data speed and 4G network speed category in Egypt. Then there are other major carriers such as Vodafone and Orange.

► Our recommendation: Etisalat ranks top 1 in coverage among telecommunications networks in Egypt today. If you come to this locality to travel, you can choose Etisalat SIM card & eSIM so you can use it with peace of mind whether you are in the big city or the suburbs.

III. Etisalat Speed in Egypt

“Etisalat wins the Upload Speed Experience award outright for the second time in a row. The operator’s score of 6.2Mbps is nearly 12% higher than that of its closest competitor, WE” – quote from Mobile Network Experience Report 2023.

 The average results of Etisalat Egypt are updated in the following table:

Comparing with other SIM card providers, we found a comparison table between the 3 largest Egyptian carriers as follows:

► Our recommendation: Etisalat is currently rated top in terms of data speed, coverage area and good price packages in Egypt. You should consider choosing this network carrier when traveling.

IV. Does Etisalat Have eSIM in Egypt?

The answer is YES!

• Coverage Area: Etisalat ranks top 1 in telecommunications coverage in Egypt, so you can feel secure using it whether in a big city or the suburbs when traveling.
• Quality and Service: Etisalat SIM cards & eSIMs services are highly appreciated for their good price packages, strong speed and wide coverage.
• Conclusion: Overall, Etisalat Egypt is an excellent choice for travelers visiting this country.

V. Top Etisalat SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

We have a price list of Foot Etisalat packages at a Kiosk in Cairo Airport – Egypt that you can refer to as follows:

Note: The denomination is converted based on the current exchange rate between LE and USD, which is currently 1 EGP= 0.032$.

If you want to buy individual packages for short-term tourists, you can refer directly to Etisalat’s website or meet the salesperson for support. The reason is because packages for tourists can change by season, or even by day depending on the number of guests they accommodate.

VI. Where to Buy an Etisalat SIM card?

There are four ways to purchase Etisalat SIM Card eSIM: Online purchase, Etisalat stores and outlets, Airports, Authorized resellers:

► Our recommendation:

Depending on your usage needs and preferences when traveling to Egypt. However, we advise you to make online purchases on reputable platforms (You can refer to GIGAGO for more information) and to buy in advance before your trip, ensuring successful activation and readiness for use upon arrival in Egypt. This will help you save time and be more proactive in every aspect of your journey.

VII. A Better Alternatives to Etisalat SIM Card – Egypt eSIM

There are two ways to purchase Etisalat eSIM: Buy online, purchase directly at Etisalat stores, authorized resellers or kiosks at the airports.

Etisalat is one of the major telecommunications networks in Egypt. Additionally, you can consider other networks such as Vodafone, Orange, etc. Among them, Orange is also a recommendation we would like to suggest for you if you travel to Egypt.

The eSIM and SIM card services from Orange are quite good, with high coverage, nearly 99% of the Egyptian territory. Additionally, you can purchase Orange eSIM in advance through a suggested website – Gigago, where you will receive quick and free registration support, with the eSIM already activated and ready for immediate use upon landing, providing a convenient option. The costs are also quite reasonable.

► Our recommendations:

• You should prepare to buy an eSIM before your trip and activate it, just wait for roaming and use it after getting off the plane.
• Refer to the GIGAGO platform – a reputable supplier of SIM and eSIM types for international tourists. You don’t waste time registering and are still fully activated.
• Finally, only choose to buy an eSIM if your device supports it.

VIII. How to Top-up Etisalat SIM/eSIM

1. Top up an Etisalat SIM card

1. Purchase a Recharge Card

Buy an Etisalat recharge card from authorized outlets, stores, or online platforms. 

2. Scratch Off the Card

 scratch off the protective coating on the recharge card to reveal the PIN.

3. Dial the Recharge Code

Dial the provided code on the recharge card (usually found on the back) using your mobile phone.

4. Follow Instructions

Follow the automated instructions provided by Etisalat to enter the PIN and complete the recharge process.

5. Confirmation Message

You will receive a confirmation message that the process is complete.

2. Top up an Etisalat eSIM

1. Online Recharge

Log in to the official Etisalat Misr website or mobile app.

2 Select Recharge Option

Look for the recharge or top-up option in the app or on the website.

3. Enter Recharge Code

Enter the PIN or recharge code provided from the purchased recharge card.

4. Follow Instructions

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the card loading process.

5. Confirmation

You will receive a confirmation message that the process is complete.

► Our recommendations:

• Some third-party providers also assist in the top-up process for Etisalat SIM cards and eSIMs. However, you need to carefully check the reliability of these providers before using their services. 
• Additionally, you can top up directly at airport kiosks, authorized Etisalat retail stores, or local SIM card shops. Seek direct assistance from sales representatives or always adhere to the instructions provided by the service provider to ensure a successful process.

IX. FAQs

X. Conclusion

Etisalat is a major telecommunications provider with the broadest coverage across Egypt. Etisalat SIM cards & eSIMs offer various data packages suitable for travelers visiting this country. We hope the information in the article will provide you with valuable tips for your journey to explore the land of legendary Pharaohs.