Mobile Internet in Uzbekistan for Travelers: xxx Ways to Get Data & Cost

Traveling to Uzbekistan and wondering if Uzbekistan mobile internet can meet your needs. The article below will answer this question for you. Besides, the article will also provide necessary information and useful tips so you can connect online in Uzbekistan most conveniently and economically.

I. Mobile Internet in Uzbekistan – Coverage and Speed

In the large cities of Uzbekistan, you can generally expect good quality cellular communication. The mobile internet speed is fast enough to quickly open websites and watch videos online. This is made possible by the use of 3G technology, which offers speeds of more than 3 Mbit/s, and HSPA+ technology, which can provide speeds of up to 42 Mbit/s.

The quality of mobile Internet decreases with population size–smaller cities and less populated areas have slower connections and less coverage. Here, users can use messenger apps and expect sites to slowly using EDGE technology (up to 384 Kbps).

II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists to Uzbekistan?

Staying connected in Uzbekistan by 4 ways
Staying connected in Uzbekistan by 4 ways

There are 4 main options for tourists to stay connected in Uzbekistan: 

OptionsProsCons
Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi– Security risks
– Limited coverage
– Variable speed and reliability
Uzbekistan SIM Card– Wide coverage
– Cost control
– Reliable connection
-It takes effort to buy or wait for the SIM to be shipped to install it
– Main SIM is easily lost when removed
– 1 phone only uses 1 sim
Uzbekistan Roaming-Use the same current SIM – Expensive charges
– Not all network operators have connection and cooperation contracts with Uzbekistan network operators
Uzbekistan pocket wifi– The phone does not need to be unlocked to receive the Internet
– Easy to use: turn on and use
– High equipment rental/purchase costs
– Must go to the place to buy/wait for delivery
– Always carry it with you
– Must charge or use backup charger
– Must be returned after trip ends (if rented)

III. Internet Rates in Uzbekistan

The cost of mobile internet in Uzbekistan varies depending on the tariff you choose. There are special packages available that include a certain amount of mobile data, but many locals prefer to buy separate packages each month based on their actual usage to save money. On average, 1 GB of mobile traffic, based on a comparison of 28 tariff plans, costs an average of $0.3712

Uzbekistan mobile Internet affordability
Uzbekistan mobile Internet affordability

To purchase an internet package, you can simply send a USSD request or an SMS, which will bring up a list for selecting and buying the package. Make sure you have enough credit on your account to complete the purchase. Topping up your mobile isn also easy.

IV. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Uzbekistan

An Uzbekistan SIM Card
An Uzbekistan SIM Card

A Uzbekistan data SIM card is often a great option for tourists. Here are some reasons why:

  • Internet Connectivity: With a data SIM card, you can stay connected, use navigation apps, research attractions, and communicate with others.
  • Cost-Effective: Data SIM cards typically offer cost-effective data plans tailored for tourists. 
  • Flexibility: Using a data SIM card gives you the flexibility to choose the data plan that suits your needs and the duration of your stay. 
  • Easy to Obtain: Data SIM cards are usually readily available at airports, mobile provider stores, or even online. 
  • No Contract or Commitment: Most data SIM cards for tourists are prepaid, meaning you don’t need to sign a contract or commit to a long-term plan. 

V. Data eSIM for Uzbekistan – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists

Uzbekistan eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional Uzbekistan physical SIM cards that need to be inserted and removed, eSIM is built into the device’s hardware and can be programmed with multiple mobile network profiles.

1. Buy eSIM from Uzbekistan Operators

Uzmobile stores in zUzbekistan
Uzmobile stores in zUzbekistan

There are several mobile provider stores conveniently located in the cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva where you can easily get one.

I’ve heard that the prices and data packages offered at these stores are quite similar to those available at the airport, so you won’t miss out on any great deals.

When heading to a mobile provider store, remember to bring your passport and a copy of it as they require these documents for SIM card registration.

Just keep in mind that, like many stores in Uzbekistan, you might encounter staff members with limited English skills, which can make the process a bit more challenging.

 2. Buy eSIM from Gigago

One way to eliminate the disadvantages mentioned above is to buy an Uzbekistan eSIM from reputable retailers like Gigago. With Gigago, visitors have the opportunity to receive the following benefits:

  • Diverse packages at affordable prices
  • No need for ID cards or any documents
  • 24/7 support in multiple languages
  • Gigago Uzbekistan eSIM has high coverage, and comes from reputable carriers such as Unitel LLC-Beeline UZ / COSCOM
  • Instant delivery via email
  • Easy activation just by scanning the QR code
Gigago Uzbekistan packages
Gigago Uzbekistan packages

For Uzbekistan, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 300 MB/day for 7 days with $3.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Uzbekistan eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.50$128.00 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Uzbekistan, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VI. FAQs

What should I do if I’m experiencing slow mobile internet speeds in Uzbekistan?

If you’re experiencing slow mobile internet speeds in Uzbekistan, you should make sure you are in an area with adequate network coverage. Additionally, check if you have reached your data limit for the current billing cycle.

Can I purchase a data-only SIM card for mobile internet usage in Uzbekistan?

Yes, it is possible to purchase a data-only SIM card specifically for mobile internet usage in Uzbekistan

How do I recharge or top up my mobile internet balance in Uzbekistan?

To recharge or top up your mobile internet balance in Uzbekistan, you can typically purchase a recharge voucher or use mobile payment services provided by your network provider.

VII. Conclusion

Although the Mobile Internet network in Uzbekistan still has some limitations, visitors can still enjoy their vacation in this country with stable network quality, meeting the necessary basic needs. Using Uzbekistan SIM Card/eSIM is the best choice because Uzbekistan free wifi is often not popular and the network quality is not very good, and roaming costs will be very high. Hope the above information will help you!