This traveler guide will cover essential details on getting and activating Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards and eSIMs when exploring the stunning islands of the Maldives.
As the primary mobile network in the Maldives, Ooredoo offers reliable connectivity across the island nation. Both physical SIMs and digital SIM profiles are available options from Ooredoo to stay connected while in the Maldives. This article covers everything about purchasing and using Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards and eSIMs to ensure convenient communications during their visit to the Maldives.
In this article
Ooredoo Maldives provides telecommunication services across the Maldives. Some key facts include:
Ooredoo’s network coverage map by nPerf shows that:
Ooredoo Maldives invests in infrastructure to allow visitors from resorts to rural villages to rely on mobile access. Their widespread coverage helps people stay in touch no matter where they are located within the beautiful Maldives.
According to data on Ooredoo speed in Maldives by OpenSignal:
► Ooredoo offers the fastest cellular internet speeds across the Maldives. They offer fast download and upload speeds, both higher than their competitor Dhiraagu’s network speeds. This allows users to enjoy high-speed connectivity no matter where they are in the Maldives.
Two key types of Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards for travelers include:
| Criteria | Prepaid physical SIM | Prepaid eSIM |
| Activation | Purchase SIM card and insert yourself or get help at store | Download the profile digitally to an eSIM-enabled device |
| Availability | All major airports and stores across the Maldives | Can be downloaded online before flight |
| Device compatibility | Works with all unlocked smartphones | Only compatible with eSIM-ready devices |
| Pros | Familiar plastic card | No need to insert a plastic card, can switch profiles easily |
| Cons | Need to insert card manually, risk losing SIM | Limited to newer eSIM-ready devices only |
| Data plans | Multiple options, from 7 days to 30 days | Data-only plans available |
| Cost | Affordable, starting at around $15 for 4GB, valid for 7 days | Cost-effective, starting at about $44 for 20GB over 30 days |
► Recommendation:
Prepaid plastic SIM cards are a budget-friendly choice but you may need to buy one locally, while eSIM profiles allow signing up from home before your trip.
An Ooredoo eSIM lets travelers set it up from their home country before flying to the Maldives. This means no hunting down stores selling SIMs or manually putting in a plastic card when you arrive. Just be sure your phone or tablet can use an eSIM profile.
There are some Ooredoo data pack options available for tourists to the Maldives:
► Ooredoo Maldives offers several SIM card packages at affordable prices. This allows visitors to choose the one that best fits how they plan to connect while enjoying their holiday in the Maldives.
Important Note: Visit Ooredoo Maldives’ official website for the latest updates on Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards for visitors.
There are 3 options for visitors to obtain Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards:
When you land at Velana International Airport (MLE) in the capital of Male, you may obtain Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards right after walking out of the arrivals. There is an Ooredoo kiosk on your right-hand side. Buying a SIM at this airport means you can access cellular data right when you touch down.
Requirements: Passport for ID proof, USD cash/ MVR cash/ credit card to pay
Price & Plan: airport prices are higher than city store prices, fewer SIM options
Tourists can also obtain Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards in city stores. Ooredoo shops are located widely in cities like Malé, Addu City, Huluhle Island, Maadhandu, Mahibadhoo, etc.
Requirement: ID verification needed
Plan & Price: Attractive deals, diverse deals, cheaper than airport prices
Pro Tip: To uncover the nearest Ooredoo store, search for Ooredoo stores near me on Google Maps.
One of the easiest ways for travelers to get an Ooredoo SIM is by purchasing one online before their trip. Then they will have mobile network access as soon as they arrive.
Price & Plan: Reasonable prices with lots of options to choose from
Requirements: Just provide your name, phone number, and address – no ID proof needed
An eSIM is handy for tourists to the Maldives who do not want to bother with a physical SIM card. By getting a Maldives eSIM virtually before their flight, tourists can turn on data straightaway through Ooredoo Maldives’ fast 4G network when they touch down.
eSIM packages from trusted providers like Gigago give great value and flexibility compared to buying an Ooredoo SIM locally after arriving.
So why select Gigago?
See more: Gigago eSIM options for Maldives.
There are convenient options for adding more credit to Ooredoo Maldives prepaid SIM cards while traveling in the Maldives. A few ways to top up include:
Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards are available for purchase at airports and stores across the Maldives. You can also order an Ooredoo eSIM profile online before your trip.
Ooredoo Maldives SIM cards will work in any unlocked smartphone that supports the 4G/ 3G network standards. eSIM profiles require a compatible eSIM-enabled device.
You can top up your Ooredoo Maldives SIM card easily at retail stores, vouchers, or directly from the Ooredoo app using a credit/debit card.
This guide provides tourists with helpful details on where and for what price they can buy SIM cards directly at Velana Airport in Malé. It also gives information about the best SIM plans and other alternatives to airport SIM
This article will go over the finest SIM card alternatives for Maldives, where to get, and how to utilize a Maldives SIM card.
This guide will provide five simple options for accessing mobile internet in Maldives so tourists can make the most of their vacation.
This traveler’s guide will show you how to use cell phone in Maldives so you do not miss important calls or messages and can easily contact friends and family back home during your vacation.
