Prepaid Yemen SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

Yemen SIM cards provide travelers an affordable choice during their trip. 

When traveling to Yemen, it is crucial to select reliable ways of connectivity. This article will discuss why purchasing a Yemen SIM card is the better option when compared to relying on free WiFi, using pocket WiFi, or traveling with your local carrier. Yemen SIM cards will be covered, along with the most economical, leading network providers, types that are suitable for tourists.

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

For tourists visiting Yemen, here are some of the best SIM card options:

1. Yemen Mobile SIM cards

Yemen Mobile is one of the leading telecommunications providers in Yemen, offering a wide range of services, including voice, data, and SMS. Known for its extensive coverage, Yemen Mobile is a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking reliable connectivity.

Yemen Mobile offers various top-up options to extend plans or add more data. This selection provides tourists with various options to stay connected while visiting Yemen. Here’s their package:

• Basic data usage: 1 GB, 7 days, 1,500 YER  
• Moderate use: 3 GB, 14 days, 2,500 YER 
• Heavy usage: 5 GB, 30 days, 4,000 YER 
• Calls and data combo: 100 local minutes + 1 GB, 30 days, 5,000 YER

2. Sabafon SIM cards

Sabafon SIM cards are a popular choice for mobile users in Yemen. With reliable service and a range of affordable plans, Sabafon has gained significant trust among customers. Here are some of Sabafon data packages: 

• Package 1: Tariff (125 units), data: 400 MB
• Package 2: Tariff (240 units), data: 1200 MB
• Package 3: Tariff (350 units), data: 3500 MB

3. MTN Yemen (YOU Telecom) SIM cards 

MTN Yemen, now rebranded as YOU Telecom, is a major mobile network provider in Yemen. MTN Yemen Prepaid SIM Cards are the most common, allowing travelers to pay in advance for mobile services. 

• Small Pack: 1GB data + 50 local minutes call + 20 SMS valid for 7 days: 2,000 YER
• Large Pack: 5GB data + 150 local minutes call + 50 SMS valid for 30 days:  5,000 YER

► Recommendation: If your phone supports eSIM, highly recommend you getting one instead of a Yemen physical SIM card. With a Yemen eSIM, you can keep your current physical SIM in place while adding another travel SIM, making it much more convenient to manage multiple networks. Especially if you’re using a newest high-end phone, which supports multiple eSIMs, you can add up several network carriers.

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

If you prefer to buy a SIM card after you arrive in Yemen, you can easily find them at airports, convenience stores, and official mobile network provider stores.

1. Buy Yemen SIM Card Online 

You can purchase Yemen SIM cards online through various platforms and providers. 

• Telecom Provider Websites: Check the official websites of major providers like Yemen Mobile or Sabafon. They may offer online purchasing options or provide information on authorized resellers.
• Online Retailers: Look for international online retailers that specialize in SIM cards, such as: Gigago, Amazon, eBay
• Travel SIM Providers: Consider websites that specialize in travel SIM cards that might offer plans covering Yemen.

Suitable for:  Individuals moving to Yemen who need a quick way to get connected. 

Pros:

• Immediate Connectivity: Get your SIM card ready to use as soon as you arrive in Yemen.
• Convenience: Avoid the trouble of searching for a SIM card vendor when you arrive.
• Preloaded Plans: Many overseas SIM cards include preloaded data, call, and text plans designed for travelers.

Cons:

• Shipping Time: May take longer to receive the SIM card, potentially delaying activation.
• Limited Options: Online availability may be restricted compared to in-store options.
• Verification Issues: Registration requirements may complicate the online purchase process, as some providers may require in-person verification.

2. Buy SIM card at Yemen airports

In Yemen, major airports like Sana’a International Airport and Aden International Airport have facilities for purchasing SIM cards from local mobile network providers, including Sabafon, MTN Yemen, and Yemen Mobile. Yemen SIM cards are typically purchased at duty-free stores, kiosks, and mobile service provider booths.

Suitable for: People on short business trips, individuals without prior arrangements.

Pros: 

• Access to mobile services right away after arriving.
• Staff members might help with setup.

Cons: 

• Higher prices compared to urban areas.
• Fewer options available than in city stores.
• A more complex and time-consuming registration process

3. Buy SIM Card in Yemen City

If you’re in Yemen City and need a Yemen SIM card, you can find mobile service providers’ official stores, kiosks, or at numerous authorized retailers across the city.

Suitable for: Travelers who are already in Yemen City, looking for mobile connectivity with affordable mobile plans.

Pros: Competitive rates compared to the Yemen airport.

Cons: Some Yemen SIM card operators require a manual activation process, which can take time. You may also need to provide identification to register your SIM card

You can look up the nearest mobile stores using Google Maps. Here is some locations you can refer to: 

• Yemen Mobile Zubayri Branch: Zubayri Street, Sana’a, Yemen
• SabaFon Service Center: 96F3+XX5, Sana’a, Yemen
• YOU Telecom Branch (MTN): 85WX+2HV, Zubayri Street, Sana’a, Yemen

III. How Much is a Tourist Yemen SIM Card? 

Prepaid SIM cards in Yemen are reasonably priced, often ranging from $5 to $20 USD. Data, call, and text packages range from about $10 to $50 USD, depending on the amount of data and other services. 

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

There are 2 types of Yemen SIM cards available for tourists: Prepaid SIM Card for Yemen; tourist eSIM for Yemen.

Here is a table to show the key differences between prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs available for tourists in Yemen.

Criteria	Prepaid SIM Card	Tourist eSIM
Convenience	Easy to purchase at airports and shops	Purchase online and activate instantly
Compatibility	Works with most GSM phones	Requires eSIM-compatible devices
How to Use	Insert the SIM card, dial activation code	Scan QR code to activate
Plan Example	Data packages ranging from 1GB to 10GB	Flexible data plans (specifics vary)
Price	Approximately 1,000 to 5,000 YER	Similar range; varies by provider

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

Yes, A SIM card is a must when visiting Yemen. These are the main reason for that:

• Efficient communication: SIM guarantees that sending and receiving texts is simple.
• Internet connectivity: Use it for research, experience sharing, and navigation.
• Convenience: Several locations for purchases, including retail and convenience businesses.
• Different choices: Choose from a variety of prepaid choices according to your requirements and financial circumstances.

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

Purchasing and setting up a Yemen SIM card is quite easy. Here are things that you should prepare:

• Unlocked Phone: Verify that any SIM card can be used with your phone. Before you go, get in touch with your carrier to unlock it if needed.
• Passport: To register your SIM card in Israel, you typically need a valid passport, so have it available to save time.
• Using a credit card or local currency: Even while most establishments accept cards, it’s a good idea to have an extra YER for smaller stores that might not accept international cards.
• eSIM Compatibility: If your phones support eSIM , think about utilizing your phone’s eSIM feature. Remotely activated eSIMs are available from major providers such as YOU Telecom Branch and Sabafone.

VII. Yemen eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards 

Save your time by buying a Yemen eSIM online. Travelers now won’t need to visit a physical store to buy Yemen SIM card, you can activate your eSIM instantly from anywhere, even before you arrive in Yemen. You can easily switch between local and international networks without having to physically change SIM cards over again to your phone.

Yemen eSIM is available from several online providers, and one of the most trusted travel eSIM retailers is Gigago. The Gigago Yemen eSIM is priced around $15.00 – $60.50 , with plans starting from $15.00 for 1GB of data valid for 3 days.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Yemen?

A tourist Yemen SIM card typically lasts between 3 to 30 days, depending on the plan and provider you choose. Most providers offer flexible options for tourists, with short-term plans for 3, 5, 7, or 15 days, as well as longer plans lasting up to 30 days. You can select a plan based on the duration of your stay in Yemen and your data or calling needs.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Yemen

Activating a SIM card in Yemen is a simple process that ensures tourists and residents can quickly get connected. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to activate a SIM card. 

1. Using Prepaid Yemen tourist SIM Cards

To activate a prepaid Yemen tourist SIM card, follow these steps:

1. Purchase the SIM Card: Available at airports, telecom shops, or authorized outlets from major providers like Yemen Mobile or Sabafon.
2. Register with Your Passport: Provide your passport for registration, which is mandatory for SIM card activation in Yemen.
3. Insert the SIM Card: Place the SIM card into your phone and restart the device.
4. Dial Activation Code: Follow the provider’s instructions to activate the SIM. This often involves dialing a specific USSD code (check with the retailer or the instructions provided with the SIM).
5. Top-Up or Select a Package: Add credit or choose a data/call plan by purchasing top-up vouchers or using the provider’s mobile app.
6. Check Activation: You will receive a confirmation SMS once the SIM is activated and ready for use.

2. Setting up and activating Yemen eSIM

Setting up and activating an eSIM in Yemen involves a few key steps:

1. Check Device Compatibility: Ensure that your smartphone supports eSIM functionality. Most modern smartphones (like iPhones and some Android models) support eSIMs.
2. Choose a Provider: Yemen Mobile or Sabafon may offer eSIM options, but eSIM availability in Yemen can be limited. Alternatively, international eSIM providers might offer Yemen-specific plans for travelers.
3. Purchase an eSIM Plan: If available, purchase an eSIM plan either online through the provider’s website or at authorized outlets.
4. Scan QR Code: Once purchased, you will receive a QR code (via email or in-store). Open your phone’s settings and navigate to the eSIM setup menu (usually under Mobile Network or Cellular Settings). Scan the QR code to download the eSIM profile.
5. Activate the eSIM: Follow the on-screen prompts to finalize the setup. This may include adding APN settings manually if required. Some providers might require dialing a USSD code to activate.
6. Add Credit or Data: Once activated, you can purchase and add top-up or data packages through the provider’s app, USSD codes, or recharge vouchers.

After these steps, your eSIM will be active and ready for use in Yemen.

X. FAQs about Yemen SIM card

XI. Conclusion 

In conclusion, getting a prepaid Yemen SIM card as a tourist is a straightforward way to stay connected. Major providers like Yemen Mobile and Sabafon offer affordable options with easy activation. SIM cards can be purchased at airports, kiosks, or shops, and top-up services are widely available. For travelers, it’s essential to have your passport handy for registration and consider the coverage and data package based on your destination within Yemen.