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Guide to getting a SIM card and eSIM at Cairo airports / border gates by province for travelers to stay connected in Cairo
Vodafone Egypt SIM Cards & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate
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Vodafone is known as one of the largest telecommunications service providers in Egypt with extensive coverage.
In this article, we will explore Vodafone Egypt SIM cards and eSIMs, including information on the network’s pros and cons, how to use their SIM cards and eSIMs, Vodafone’s best plans, and related frequently asked questions.
In this article
I. Overview about Vodafone Egypt – What you need to know
Vodafone Egypt is a subsidiary in Egypt of the Vodafone Group. It is one of the largest telecommunications companies globally. Vodafone in Egypt provides various telecommunications services, with a notable emphasis on mobile voice and data services, as well as fixed-line services. The Vodafone company in Egypt is among the major players in the telecommunications market in this country.
- Vodafone – Abbreviation for “voice data fone” – meaning “telephone”
- Service Launch Year: Originating from the predecessor years 1983-1991 under Racal Strategic Radio Company.
- Types of Services Provided: Internet, mobile services, digital services.
- Operational Areas: Worldwide, spanning across 22 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.
- Awards Received: (Latest) Leading in 4G access speed in Egypt specifically in 2023.
II. Vodafone Coverage in Egypt
Vodafone in Egypt has an extensive network that covers a significant part of the country, including urban and rural areas.
Regarding coverage in Egypt, Vodafone is among the top 4 network providers with one of the highest coverage areas nationwide.
According to the latest statistics in a recent mobile network experience report in Egypt, Vodafone leads in 4G experience compared to the other three networks, namely Etisalat, Orange, and WE.
Furthermore, according to this comparison chart, Vodafone only ranks behind Etisalat with a marginal difference of 0.45 points in the availability category, specifically in the ratio of time users spend on 3G. This indicates that Vodafone’s coverage is evaluated quite favorably.
III. Vodafone Speed in Egypt
Currently, Vodafone holds the second position among over 20 telecommunications networks in Egypt. The average results of Vodafone Egypt are updated in the following table:
| Download Speed | 17,24 Mb/s |
| Upload Speed | 6,71 Mb/s |
| Ping latency | 126 Ms |
Comparing with other SIM card providers, we found a comparison table between the 3 largest Egyptian carriers as follows:
| SIM card | Network Coverage | Data Speed | Plans | Price |
| Vodafone | Best | Fastest | Variety of plans | Can be pricey |
| Orange | Good | Fast | Variety of plans | Affordable |
| Etisalat | Good | Fast | Variety of plans | Affordable |
► Our recommendation: It can be seen that the speed of Vodafone SIM is currently almost leading and is recommended for many tourists.
IV. Does Vodafone Egypt Have eSIM for travelers?
The answer is YES!
- Coverage Area: Vodafone provides extensive coverage, reaching over 99% of the population in Egypt.
- Quality and Service: High-quality services and excellent customer support.
- Conclusion: Overall, Vodafone Egypt is an excellent choice for travelers visiting this country.
V. Top Vodafone SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
| Price | Data | Time | Activation |
| LE 0.75 (0.024$) | 10 MB | 1 hour | *2000*01# |
| LE 1.50 (0.049$) | 30 MB | 3 hours | *2000*03# |
| LE 2.50 (0.081$) | 60 MB | 6 hours | *2000*06# |
| LE 2 (0.065$) | 50 MB | 7 days | *2000*72# |
| LE 3 (0.097$) | 100 MB | *2000*73# | |
| LE 7 (0.23$) | 350 MB | *2000*77# | |
| LE 5 (0.16$) | 150 MB | 28 days | *2000*5# |
| LE 10 (0.32$) | 500 MB | *2000*10# | |
| LE 20 (0.65$) | 1.1 GB | *2000*20# | |
| LE 30 (0.97$) | 1.8 GB | *2000*30# | |
| LE 40 (1.29$) | 2.5 GB | *2000*40# | |
| LE 60 (1.94$) | 4 GB | *2000*60# | |
| LE 80 (2.59$) | 6 GB | *2000*80# | |
| LE 100 (3.24$) | 8 GB | *2000*100# | |
| LE 150 (4.85$) | 12 GB | *2000*150# | |
| LE 250 (8.09$) | 20 GB | *2000*250# | |
| LE 400 (12.94$) | 40 GB | *2000*400# |
Note: The denomination is converted based on the current exchange rate between LE and USD, which is currently 1 LE = 0.032$.
VI. Where to Buy a Vodafone Egypt SIM cards and eSIM?
1. Where to Buy Vodafone Egypt SIM Card?
There are four ways to purchase Vodafone SIM Card eSIM: Online purchase, Vodafone stores, Airports, Authorized retailers.
| Buy online | Vodafone Stores | Airports | Authorized Retailers | |
| Pros | Proactive and convenient | Prestige, quality, warranty | Convenient, buy right after getting off the plane | Prestige, quality, warranty |
| Cons | Easy to encounter scams and fake SIM card | Documents need to be presented | Documents need to be presented. Inconvenient when needing on-site support | The location may be far from where you stay |
► Our recommendation:
Depending on whether you are staying in a major city or the suburbs in Egypt, you can choose a proactive approach to buying a Vodafone SIM card. Alternatively, purchase one at the airport where personal documents are readily available, and the process is usually quick at the kiosks.
VII. A Better Alternative to Vodafone SIM cards – Egypt eSIM
Vodafone boasts a coverage rate of up to 99% in Egypt and is a reputable network for travelers. However, we recommend the Orange SIM cards & eSIMs – a reliable network ranked among the top 4 largest networks in Egypt.
With a coverage rate similar to Vodafone, Orange also offers comprehensive support for both SIM cards and eSIMs. If it’s your first time traveling to Egypt, we recommend purchasing an Orange eSIM online before your trip. It’s crucial to find a reliable provider, and we suggest GIGAGO – a provider offering competitive prices for international travelers.
There are two ways to purchase Vodafone eSIM: Buy online, purchase directly at stores or kiosks at the airport.
| Online purchase | Direct purchase | |
| Pros | Proactive and convenient | Prestige, quality, warranty |
| Cons | Easy to encounter scams and fake eSIMs | Documents need to be presented |
► Our recommendation:
- If you have time, please explore reputable online eSIM providers. We recommend the Gigago website, where you can find high-quality eSIMs at affordable prices.
- When purchasing an eSIM online through Gigago, you won’t need to register as it is already supported. However, if you buy directly from the network, you may need to go through more registration procedures.
VIII. How to Top-up Vodafone SIM/eSIM
To top up a Vodafone SIM or eSIM in Egypt, you can use various methods. Here are general steps for topping up your Vodafone mobile account:
1. Online Top – up:
To top up your SIM card balance online, visit the official Vodafone website and follow the instructions. Enter the necessary information, make the payment, and activate your usage after topping up.
2. Voucher/Card:
Purchase a Vodafone top-up voucher or card from official Vodafone stores, authorized retailers, or convenience stores.
3. Mobile App
If you find the dedicated app of the Vodafone network, enter the SIM card or eSIM information on the app for convenient management. Then, proceed to top up your account using the direct top-up feature within the app.
4. Authorized Retailers: Some authorized retailers or convenience stores may offer top-up services for eSIM and SIM card accounts. Visit a store, provide the necessary details, and purchase a top-up.
► Our recommendation:
It is advisable to use Vodafone’s dedicated mobile app for convenient management of both SIM and eSIM, as well as to easily receive promotions, notifications about top-ups, or data charges from the official network.
IX. FAQs about Vodafone Egypt SIM card & eSIM
Does Vodafone have extensive coverage in Egypt?
Yes. Vodafone is one of the largest mobile networks in Egypt, providing coverage to up to 99% of the country.
What Vodafone plan should I buy when visiting Egypt?
Depending on three factors: How long are you staying? Do you need high-speed internet access? Are you traveling alone or in a group? Then, choose a package based on cost and suitable speed that we suggested above.
Can I purchase Vodafone eSIM at Cairo Airport upon arrival in Egypt?
Yes. Cairo Airport is a major international airport in Egypt, so there is a reliable system of kiosks and SIM card shops. You can purchase an eSIM upon arrival at the airport with assistance from the staff at the counter.
Why should I buy Vodafone eSIM online?
Purchasing Vodafone eSIM online will save you time. You can buy it from reputable websites like Gigago without the need for registration, still receiving quick support, warranty, and immediate assistance in case of any issues.
X. Conclusion
Vodafone is a major network with extensive coverage in Egypt. Additionally, it offers both eSIM and traditional SIM cards, providing convenience for travelers, whether on short or long stays. The information provided above offers essential details about Vodafone Egypt SIM cards and eSIMs. We recommend that if your device is compatible with eSIM, consider purchasing an eSIM when traveling, as they come with many advantages and conveniences for users.
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