Best Uzbekistan SIM Cards for Tourists: Updated Prices & Where to Buy 2024

It’s essential for travelers in Uzbekistan to have the best SIM cards to stay connected, access travel information, and keep in touch with loved ones. This guide will help you understand where you can buy Uzbekistan SIM Cards, including airports and cities, and provide up-to-date price information. You’ll also find information on the best prepaid options from network providers that offer great value for light data usage while exploring different destinations. 

I. Should You Get a Sim Card in Uzbekistan?

Absolutely! If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, especially for a short duration, it’s highly recommended to buy and activate a local SIM card. The three major mobile network operators in Uzbekistan, namely Ucell, Beeline and Uzmobile, offer SIM cards specifically designed for international tourists. You can find them at their stores located throughout the country, as well as at affiliated places like gas stations and convenience stores.

Now, let’s explore why getting a prepaid Uzbekistan travel SIM card is a great idea:

• Avoid high roaming charges: By using a local SIM card, you can steer clear of exorbitant roaming charges imposed by your regular carrier when using your phone abroad. 

• Cost-effective: SIM card packages in Uzbekistan are quite affordable. This ensures that you can comfortably use apps like maps, translation services, and stay connected online without worrying about breaking the bank.

• Enhances your experience: Having access to apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps during your trip enhances your overall experience and makes it easier to explore Uzbekistan 

For convenience and cost-effectiveness during your short trip focused on Uzbekistan, purchasing a SIM card from three big operators would likely be your best option. 

II. Types of Uzbekistan SIM Card for Tourists – Which One is the Best?

There are two common types of SIM cards for tourists in Uzbekistan and they differ based on their form. Let’s take a look:

1. Prepaid physical SIM card in Uzbekistan

This is a physical SIM card that you insert into your phone upon arriving in Uzbekistan. You can purchase it either offline or online before your trip from stores or websites that offer travel SIM cards. If you buy it after arriving in Uzbekistan, you’ll need to register it by showing your passport.

• Suitable for: Travelers who prioritize reliable coverage, a variety of plan options, and don’t mind going through the registration process.

• Pros: These SIM cards are widely available, offer fast speeds, and come with diverse plan options. Topping up is easy, and you won’t have to worry about roaming charges.

• Cons: You’ll need to visit a store to purchase the SIM card, and it must be registered with your passport details. Additionally, you’ll have to swap your primary SIM card with the new Uzbekistan SIM.

2. Prepaid Tourist Uzbekistan eSIM:

An eSIM is a digital SIM profile that can be installed on compatible smartphones without the need for a physical SIM card.

You can purchase eSIM plans online before your trip. Simply scan a QR code to install it on your device. However, please note that eSIMs only work with devices that support this technology.

• Suitable for: Those who have eSIM-compatible phones and need connectivity upon arrival without buying a physical SIM card in Uzbekistan. It’s especially useful for short-term travelers.

• Pros: You can instantly activate it online from anywhere before your trip, without the need to find a SIM card store. It also provides reliable international roaming.

• Cons: The options for Uzbekistan-only plans from a few providers are limited, and you won’t have access to local apps or support. The eSIM plans are slightly more expensive compared to physical SIM cards, and you’ll need an eSIM-compatible device.

III. Best Uzbekistan SIM Card Packages for Tourists and Price

There are 3 big major operators with best Uzbekistan SIM Card packages for travelers: 

1. Ucell

Ucell only offer 02 best prepaid sim card packages: 

• 20 GB data + unlimited socials + unlimited calls + 1,500 sms = 50,000 SOM – $2.2 USD

• 35 GB data + unlimited socials + unlimited calls + 2,000 sms = 70,000 SOM – $6 USD

Ucell does also sell e-sim cards, as well as physical prepaid sim cards for tourists

2. Beeline

The Beeline prepaid sim card plans are valid for 28 days:

• 5 GB data (day) + 5 GB data (night) + 10 GB socials + 500 sms + unlimited calls = 24,000 SOM – $2.1 USD

• 10 GB data (day) + 10 GB data (night) + 20 GB socials + 1,000 sms + unlimited calls = 39,000 SOM – $3.4 USD

• 20 GB data (day) + 20 GB data (night) + 40 GB socials + 1,000 sms + unlimited calls = 55,000 SOM – $4.8 USD

• 35 GB data (day) + 35 GB data (night) + 70 GB socials + 1,000 sms + unlimited calls = 70,000 SOM – $6 USD

3. UZ Mobile / UZTELECOM

The UZ Telecom prepaid sim card plans are valid for 28 days:

• 12 GB data (day) + 6 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 22,000 SOM – $2 USD

• 18 GB data (day) + 9 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 33,000 SOM – $3 USD

• 28 GB data (day) + 14 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 44,000 SOM – $4 USD

• 44 GB data (day) + 22 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 55,000 SOM – $5 USD

• 70 GB data (day) + 35 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 77,000 SOM – $7 USD

• 100 GB data (day) + 60 GB data (night) + unlimited calls = 111,000 SOM – $11 USD

IV. Where to Buy a Tourist SIM Card for Uzbekistan?

There are four main ways to buy a tourist SIM card for Uzbekistan: 

• Buy online before departure
• Buy at airports
• Buy in Uzbekistan cities
• Buy eSIM online

1. Buy online before departure:

You have the option to purchase a tourist SIM card for Uzbekistan online before your trip. You can choose a package that suits your needs from a reputable travel provider on the internet. Afterward, the SIM card will be shipped to your address, typically arriving within 5-10 days. When you arrive in Uzbekistan make sure to have the SIM card package with you and insert it into your phone.

Pros:

• Avoid potentially higher prices at the airport upon arrival.

• Have an internet connection set up right from the beginning of your trip.

• Convenient to arrange everything from the comfort of your home country before your journey.

Cons:

• There might be delays in delivery, so it’s important to plan ahead.

• Remember to carry the SIM card package with you while traveling to Uzbekistan.
• If your travel dates or duration change, you may not be able to adjust the plan.

In summary, buying a tourist SIM card online is an organized option, but there is a risk of delivery delays. It requires proper planning if you choose this method.

2. Buy at airports:

You can purchase Uzbekistan SIM cards at airports like Uzbekistan International Airport and other airports across the country. The stands at the airports sell SIM cards from various carriers.

Pros:

• No delays, as you can buy it right after arrival.

• Instant activation for immediate use.

Cons:

• The prices at airports are generally 10-20% higher than those in local stores.

• You may have fewer plan options and less data compared to what’s available in cities.

• You’ll need to show your passport for registration.

3. Buy in Uzbekistan cities:

In major cities like Tashkent, to find the best rates, it’s recommended to check official carrier stores or shops like grocery stores.

Pros:

• This is the cheapest option, and cash payment is usually accepted.

Cons:

• You’ll need to visit the stores in person.

• There may be a language barrier while communicating with the store staff.

4. Buy eSIM online:

eSIM is a newer version of SIM card that works with eSIM-supported devices. Although it’s slightly more expensive than physical SIM cards, it offers convenience and is worth considering. You can purchase an eSIM online from anywhere at any time before your departure. The setup and activation process can be done entirely online, eliminating the need to visit stores or wait for SIM card delivery.

Pros:

• The entire process is done online, making it easy to set up and activate.

• Offers enhanced security.

• Provides a range of plan options to choose from.

Cons:

• It only works with eSIM-supported mobile devices.

► Our recommendation: We would recommend buying an eSIM online before departure if your device works with digital SIM

V. How Much Data is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Uzbekistan?

Most travelers find that 1-2GB of data per week is sufficient for their needs in Uzbekistan. With this amount, you can use maps, check emails, stay active on social media, and browse websites without any issues.

The amount of data you should buy depends on your individual Internet usage habits. Here are some facts to consider:

• If you’re someone who heavily uses the Internet, such as streaming videos or making video calls, you may need 3GB or more per week to ensure you have enough data.

• For a one-week trip, having around 1-3GB of data should provide you with comfortable coverage, depending on your usage.

• If you’re planning a two-week trip, having 2-6GB of data would be a good range to consider for a reliable Internet connection throughout your stay.

• For longer trips of 3-4 weeks, you may want to consider a plan with 6-12GB or more to ensure you have enough data to stay connected.

VI. Uzbekistan eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards to Get Internet in Uzbekistan

If you’re considering buying an eSIM for your travel to Uzbekistan, I recommend choosing Gigago as your eSIM provider.

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.

Here are some benefits you can enjoy when purchasing Gigago’s Uzbekistan eSIM:

• Easy Setup: Within minutes of purchasing online, you will receive the eSIM QR code via email. Setting up your eSIM is a breeze.

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

• Wide Coverage: Gigago’s Uzbekistan eSIM operates on the reliable network, providing coverage across the country, including cities and towns.

• Competitive Pricing: The pricing of Gigago’s eSIM plans is quite reasonable. 

• 24/7 Support: If you encounter any issues, Gigago’s customer service is readily available through chat or email, providing support around the clock.

VII. Which Uzbekistan Mobile Networks Are The Best for Tourists?

The three main cellular network operators in Uzbekistan are Ucell, Uzmobile and Beeline. They all provide good coverage across major cities and tourist areas.

1. Ucell

Ucell is a mobile network brand in Uzbekistan, owned and operated by the Uzbek company COSCOM

• Rank: Ucell is the the largest network in Uzbekistan

• Coverage: Ucell’s network covers approximately 97% of Uzbekistan 

• Speed: Peak download speeds of up to 150 Mbps and average user speeds of around 20.59 Mbps for downloads and 8.8 Mbps for uploads. 

• Rates: Prepaid plans provide better value, like 20 GB data + unlimited socials + unlimited calls + 1,500 sms for 2.2 USD

2. Beeline

Beeline holds the position of being the second largest mobile operator in Uzbekistan, right after Ucell: 

• Rank: Beeline is the second largest network in Uzbekistan

• Coverage: Coverage over 96% of the population.

• Speed: Speeds can range from 20-50 Mbps in major cities

• Rates: Prepaid SIM cards with 5GB – 35GB data and cost 2 – 6 USD and valid for 28 days

3. Uzmobile

UzMobile network quality has increased greatly and has become one of the leaders in the telecommunications network market in Uzbekistan.

• Rank: Uzmobile is the third largest network in Uzbekistan

• Coverage: Extensive coverage in Uzbekistan

• Speed: Fastest speed with median download speeds of 28.20 Mbps and median upload speeds of 14.34 Mbps.

• Rates: Prepaid SIM cards with 12GB – 100GB data and cost 2 – 11 USD and valid for 28 days

VIII. How to Use Uzbekistan Prepaid SIM Cards and eSIM

1. Using prepaid Uzbekistan tourist SIM Cards

To make the most of your Uzbekistan travel SIM card, follow these easy steps:

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

• If needed, manually select the Ucell, Beeline or Uzmobile network in your phone’s settings.

• To avoid extra charges on your regular SIM card, disable data roaming.

• Remember to remove the SIM card before leaving Uzbekistan to avoid any ongoing charges.

2. Setting up and activating Uzbekistan eSIM

If you prefer using a Uzbekistan tourist eSIM card, here’s how you can set it up:

• Check if your phone model supports eSIM functionality.

• Purchase an eSIM plan from Gigago.com or another provider that suits your travel dates and data requirements. It’s best to buy it 1-2 days before your trip.
• Within 5-10 minutes, you’ll receive an email containing your eSIM activation QR code, along with instructions.

• Check if your carrier supports eSIM activation by going to Settings > General > About on your phone.

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

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

If you want, you can change the carrier name displayed on your phone to the name of your eSIM provider for easier identification.

Before you leave Uzbekistan, remember to remove the eSIM from your phone settings to avoid any additional charges, if applicable.

IX. FAQs

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, using a prepaid Uzbekistan SIM card is a great choice for affordable and convenient connectivity during your trip to Uzbekistan. It provides tourists with an easy way to stay connected. On the other hand, if you prefer instant data access upon arrival, an eSIM is a handy option to consider. With both physical SIM cards and virtual eSIMs available, you have reliable choices for staying connected while exploring the beautiful country of Uzbekistan. Enjoy your travels and stay connected wherever you go!