How to Buy a prepaid SIM card for Sudan? (Tourist Guide)

Getting the right SIM card in Sudan is important for navigating, accessing travel information, and staying in touch with friends and family.

This guide explains where tourists can buy SIM cards when they arrive in Sudan with the latest price information. It highlights prepaid options that offer good value for light data needs while exploring.

I. What are the Best Sudan SIM cards for Tourists?

There are three the best SIM cards for travelers to choose, including: MTN, Zain and Sudani.

1. Zain Sudan

Voice Call Packages:

• 230.5 SDG (0.384 USD): 30 minutes for 1 day.

• 833.4 SDG (1.386 USD): 120 minutes for 1 day.

• 1,502 SDG (2.499 USD): 210 minutes for 7 days.

• 5,493 SDG (9.134 USD): 840 minutes for 7 days.

• 6,256.1 SDG (10.402 USD): 900 minutes for 30 days.

• 23,280 SDG (38.71 USD): 3600 minutes for 30 days.

Data SIM Cards Packages:

• 333.33 SDG (0.554 USD): 250 MB for 1 day.

• 4,574.47 SDG (7.606 USD): 5GB for 7 days.

• 7,801. 42 SDG (12.97 USD): 10 GB for 30 days.

• 14,113.48 SDG (23.467 USD): 25 GB for 30 days.

Zain Mobile Internet Packages:

• 2,296.08 SDG (3.817 USD): 1 GB for 1 day .

• 5,230.48 SDG (8.697 USD): 3 GB for 1 day.

• 8,865.23 SDG (14.741 USD): 8 GB for 7 days.

• 13,723.40 SDG (22.819 SDG): 16 GB for 7 days.

• 22,251.76 SDG (37 USD): 30 GB for 30 days.

2. MTN

MTN Social Media Bundles:

• 1.27 USD: 40 MB. 

• 14.3 USD: 100 MB. 

• 10.31 USD: 350MB.

• 14.27 USD: 500 MB.

MTN Monthly Bundles:

• 11.08 USD: 250 GB. 

• 22.19 USD: 500 GB. 

• 4.04 USD: 1 GB. 

• 134.04 USD: 3.5 GB. 

• 223.69: 6 GB.

• 433.88 USD: 12 GB. 

MTN Midnight Bundles

Dial *100*1*6# to purchase daily bundle. Valid from 12pm to 5am

• 2.85 USD: 500 MB.

• 14.12 USD: 1500 MB.

• 41.23 USD: 4 GB 

3. Sudan 

• 1134.75 SDG (1.887 USD): 1.5 GB for 1 day. 

• 3687.94 SDG (6.132 USD): 5 GB for 7 days.

• 4964.53 SDG (8.255 USD): 10 GB for 7 days.

• 9078.014 SDG (15.095 USD)15 GB for 30 days.

• 17801.41 SDG (29.6 USD): 30 GB for 30 days.

• 22473.75 SDG (37.369 USD): 50 GB for 30 days.

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Sudan for Tourists?

You have four main ways to buy a tourist SIM card for Sudan:

1. Buy Online Before Departure

You can purchase a tourist SIM card for Sudan online from a trusted travel provider. Choose a package that suits your needs, and the SIM card will be shipped to your address within about 5-10 days. Just remember to bring the SIM card package with you to Sudan and insert it when you arrive.

Pros:

• Avoid long lines and higher prices at the airport.

• Have an internet connection ready from the start of your trip.

• Convenient to arrange from your home country before traveling.

Cons:

• Delivery delays may occur.

• You need to remember to bring the SIM package with you.

• You cannot change the plan if your travel dates or duration changes.

In summary, buying online is organized, but there is a risk of delays. Proper planning is essential if you choose this option.

2. Buy at Airports

You can find SIM cards at Khartoum International Airport and other airports in Sudan. Stands at these airports sell SIM cards from various carriers like Sudani , Zain or MTN.

Pricing: SIM cards at the airport are usually 10-20% more expensive than those in local stores.

Pros:

• No delays, and you can activate it instantly.

Cons:

• More expensive than other options.

• Fewer plan choices than in the city.

• Less data available compared to city stores.

• You must show your passport for registration.

3. Buy in Sudan Cities

Many stores in major cities like Khartoum sell SIM cards—over 90% of stores offer them. It’s best to check official carrier stores or shops like grocery stores for the best rates.

Pricing: Prices are typically 10-15% lower than at airports, but you will need to travel to the city.

Pros:

This is the cheapest option, and cash payments are accepted.

Cons:

• You need to visit stores.

• There may be a language barrier.

4. Buy eSIM Online

eSIMs are a digital version of SIM cards suitable for devices that support them. While they may be slightly more expensive than physical SIMs, they offer great convenience. You can buy and set up an eSIM online from anywhere, at any time, without needing to visit a store or wait for delivery.

Pros:

• Fully online, easy to set up and activate.

• More secure than carrying a physical SIM.

• A variety of plan options to choose from.

Cons:

• Only works with eSIM-compatible devices.

► Recommendation: We recommend buying an eSIM online before your trip if your device supports it. While getting a physical SIM card at the airport or in the city is convenient, an eSIM offers the easiest setup without waiting in lines.

III. How Much is a Tourist Sudan SIM Card?

Sudan SIM cards typically cost from 1 USD to 37 USD. Larger data amounts can be purchased at a higher cost, with smaller bundles commonly starting at 1 USD. Prepaid SIM card prices in Sudan vary based on the provider and plan that you choose. This will provide you with the necessary connectivity for your stay, including data, calls, and SMS.

IV. What types of Sudan SIM cards are available for tourists?

There are two common types of SIM cards for tourists in Sudan, based on their format. Here are the details:

1. Prepaid Physical SIM Card

This is a physical SIM card that you insert into your phone when you arrive in Sudan. You can buy it online before your trip or at stores once you arrive. If you buy it in person, you’ll need to show your passport for registration.

• Cost: $1-3 for the SIM card; plans range from $1-10 for 1-15GB of data, valid for 1-30 days.

• Best for: Travelers who want reliable coverage, a variety of plans, and don’t mind registering the SIM.

• Pros: Widely available, fast internet speeds, many plan options, easy to top up, and no roaming charges.

• Cons: You need to visit a store to buy it, register with your passport, and swap out your main SIM card for the new one.

2. Prepaid Tourist Sudan eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM that you can install on compatible smartphones without needing a physical card. You can purchase plans online before you travel, and simply scan a QR code to set it up on your device. This option only works on eSIM-compatible phones.

• Cost: $9-45 for packages ranging from 0.5-10GB, valid for 1-30 days. This is slightly more expensive than physical SIM cards.

• Best for: Travelers with eSIM-compatible phones who need internet access right away without buying a SIM card in Sudan, especially for short trips.

• Pros: Instant online activation before your trip, no need to find a store, and reliable international roaming.

• Cons: Fewer plan options specific to Sudan, limited local support, and slightly higher prices than physical SIMs. Requires an eSIM-compatible device.

► Recommendation: Physical SIM cards are widely available in stores and online in Sudan. eSIMs are more suitable for digital nomads or those on short trips who prefer a quick setup.

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Sudan travel?

Yes, there are good reasons to get a prepaid travel SIM card for Sudan:

• Avoid High Roaming Charges: Using your regular carrier while roaming can lead to expensive data costs during your trip.

• Cost-Effective: SIM packages in Sudan are very affordable, often costing under $10 for 1-2GB of data valid for 7-15 days. This allows you to use maps and translation apps without worry.

• Use Apps Freely: Having internet access lets you use apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps, making it easier to explore Sudan.

• Reliable Data Coverage: With a local SIM, you won’t miss out on photo opportunities because you can access online storage and sharing.

For convenience and affordability during a short trip, consider purchasing a SIM card from MTN. Being prepared with the right connectivity will help you make the most of your rewarding trip to Sudan.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Sudan?

When buying a SIM card in Sudan, you need to have a few important items ready:

• Documents: Bring your passport and, in some cases, your ID card. You may also need to show your visa, so have all these documents easily accessible.

• Payment Options: You can pay with a credit or debit card, but make sure it’s enabled for international transactions. It’s also smart to carry some cash as a backup.

Having these items prepared will make it easier for you to purchase a SIM card in Sudan.

VII. Sudan eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards

If you want to buy an eSIM for your trip to Sudan, consider choosing Gigago as your provider.

Gigago offers several data plan options for Sudan. For Sudan, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $15.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Sudan eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $15.00 – $60.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Sudan, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

Here are some benefits of getting a Sudan eSIM from Gigago:

• Easy Setup: After purchasing online, you’ll receive the eSIM QR code by email within minutes.

• Instant Connectivity: Once your eSIM is activated, you’ll have internet access right away without needing to find a store.

• Wide Coverage: Gigago’s eSIM uses the MTN network, which provides reliable coverage throughout Sudan, including in cities and towns.

• Competitive Pricing: Packages of 3-5GB with 5-30 days of validity cost around $29-60, which is reasonable compared to roaming charges from your home network.

• 24/7 Support: If you have any issues, Gigago’s customer service is easy to reach via chat or email.

Choosing Gigago for your Sudan eSIM ensures you stay connected easily and affordably during your travels.

VII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Sudan?

The validity of tourist SIM cards in Sudan depends on the plan you choose. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Validity Periods : Tourist SIM cards usually last for 5 days, 10 days, or 30 days.

• Extension Options : You can extend your service by purchasing additional unit cards, which are easy to find throughout Sudan.

This flexibility lets you choose a plan that fits your stay and allows you to extend your service if needed.

VIII. How to activate a SIM card in Sudan

Here is how to activate SIM Card in Sudan: 

1. Using Prepaid Sudan Tourist SIM Cards

Follow these steps to use a prepaid SIM card in Sudan:

• Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone and turn on mobile data.

• You may need to manually select the MTN, Zain or Sudani network in your phone settings.

• Disable data roaming on your regular SIM to avoid extra charges while using the Sudan SIM.

• Remove the SIM card before leaving Sudan to prevent ongoing charges after it expires.

2. Setting Up and Activating Sudan eSIM

Here’s how to use a tourist eSIM card in Sudan:

• Check if your phone supports eSIM.

• Purchase an eSIM plan that fits your travel dates and data needs from reliable mobile providers like Gigago 1-2 days before your trip.

• Within 5-10 minutes, you’ll receive an email with the eSIM activation QR code and instructions.

• Go to Settings > General > About to check if your carrier supports eSIM.

• Tap “Add Cellular Plan” or “Install Profile” and scan the QR code.

• You can now use data services without needing a physical SIM card.

• (Optional) Change the carrier name displayed to the name of your eSIM provider for easy identification.

• When leaving Sudan, remove the eSIM from your phone settings to avoid any additional charges.

IX. FAQs

In summary, using a prepaid SIM card gives tourists affordable and convenient connectivity in Sudan. Alternatively, an eSIM is a great option for instant data access upon arrival. With both physical and virtual SIM options available, you’ll have reliable ways to stay connected while you explore Sudan.