Table of Contents
- Understanding eSIM Technology in Egypt
- What’s the Best eSIM Provider for Egypt?
- Final Thoughts: Which Provider to Choose?
- Conclusion
Traveling with stable Internet is finally possible in 2024. While most tourists still hunt for local SIM cards in the airport, seasoned travelers choose eSIM solutions. These virtual plans fully replace the physical card, activating the local cell data on your smartphone. In Egypt, eSIM companies cooperate with local providers and connect you to the Egyptian mobile Internet without roaming.
To choose the best eSIM card for Egypt, compare the following alternatives and their offers. Explore the leading eSIM providers – Yesim, Airalo, Instabridge, and Nomad. See how their coverage, pricing, and ease of use differ.
Understanding eSIM Technology in Egypt
eSIM has appeared recently and already replaced SIM cards for travelers. Using this technology, you can buy and activate the cell data plan in any country. Purchase, install, and be online no matter where you travel. The advantages are obvious:
| eSIM | Traditional SIM card |
|---|---|
| No need for a physical card. eSIM is virtual. | You need to buy a local SIM card in the country, which requires time. |
| Choose and activate the plan before you arrive; save your time abroad. | You can only buy the SIM card once you land. The choice of plans is limited. |
| eSIM connects to all cell data providers, available in the country. You are well-connected everywhere since the card automatically chooses the best coverage. | SIM card is limited by the provider’s coverage and capabilities. |
| The duration varies from one day to several months. | The plan duration starts from 30 days. |
| If you run out of data, top up with the application. | You may need to re-activate the plan or even wait for a month to do it. |
| No trouble storing the card. It’s fully virtual, and you cannot lose it. | The card must be compatible with your phone, and you still risk losing it. |
As for eSIM data Egypt, providers commonly work with Vodafone, Etisalat, Orange, and WE. All of them support 4G, 3G, and 2G connection, yet WE is considered the best. But don’t expect to get 5G. The first permission to use 5G was in Egypt was released at the beginning of 2024. Now, few companies even try to implement it here.
Consider Compatibility
Not all devices support eSIM, though. Before buying one for Egypt, make sure your phone will work out. Also, each brand is limited with a different number of eSIM plans, activated at the same time:
- Apple allows 20 eSIM plans on a device maximum. Starting from the iPhone 11 (and its versions), all devices are compatible.
- Apple iPad also works with eSIM and allows the activation of 20 cards at the same time.
- All generations of Apple Watch are compatible, yet you can only use 1 eSIM.
- Motorola, Sony, Oppo, Xiaomi, Huawei, and other Android devices allow 1 eSIM. Check each device individually.
- Samsung accepts up to 5 eSIM plans on the Flip series. Other smartphones, released after 2018-2019, work with even more plans.
Before ordering a card, always check the provider’s official website. Here, you will find a detailed list of compatibility. Read other rules and limitations as well.
What’s the Best eSIM Provider for Egypt?
To see the whole picture, compare all the aspects: coverage, connection speed, plans and pricing, and unlimited Internet options. Additional features are also important. Explore the 4 leading companies in 2024.
Yesim: Wide Coverage and Convenient App
Yesim is famous for its versatile pricing and offers. The company works with both limited and unlimited connection. Be ready, however, that phone calls and virtual numbers are not included in the plan. The services are rather for web scrolling and Internet sharing.
Coverage
In Egypt, Yesim works with Orange only. This is a large provider, yet it lacks the speed of WE. However, most users praise the connection speed and good coverage. You’ll be connected to the Internet even in distant parts of the country, deserts, and during hikes.
Yesim is one of the few who offer 5G connection in Egypt. This is hardly possible since most of the country still uses 4G. Still, the provider will connect you to 5G once possible. This type of connection is sometimes available in hotels and airports.
Plans and Pricing
8 plans are available. 4 of them offer unlimited connection, and others are pre-paid:
- 3G for $22;
- 5 GB for $30.80;
- 10 GB for $48.40;
- 20 GB for $63.80;
- 1 unlimited day for $7.70;
- 7 unlimited days for $42.90;
- 15 unlimited days for $57.20;
- 30 unlimited days for $89.10.
Note that some plans are discounted in 2024, and prices may change. Luckily, you can buy the plan and activate it within 365 days. If you plan the Egypt trip, it is high time to order the tariff while it is on sale.
Activation and Compatibility
There are two activation methods:
- QR code. Yesim sends codes and instructions by email. Follow them, and eSIM will be activated once you scan the QR.
- Application. Download the Yesim application to activate it here. The app also allows choosing plans, buying them, and managing data.
Beforehand, check your phone’s compatibility. The information is available on the official website and in the app.
What Do Users Say About Yesim in Egypt?
Currently, two reviews about Yesim in Egypt are available. Both say about high-speed internet and seamless coverage.
Airalo: Competitive Pricing
If you prefer pre-paid plans, choose Airalo. This provider doesn’t work with unlimited Internet, but you’ll hardly need it during vacation. Moreover, prepaid plans offer up to 10 GB of data – more than enough.
Coverage
This option for your trip offers only Orange and only LTE speed. That’s good for resort stays, but you may lack coverage in distant parts of Egypt. Orange is quite good in cities, though. If you travel to see the pyramids and relax near the pool, this eSIM is quite enough. Competitive pricing also makes it a good choice
Plans and Pricing
Pick one of 5 plans:
- 1 GB per $7;
- 2 GB per $12.50;
- 3 GB per $17.50;
- 5 GB per $26.50;
- 10 GB per $44.
The more you buy, the cheaper the Internet. This policy makes Airalo a popular choice for long-term vacations. All plans support the VPN and hotspots. If you lack data, top the plan up. This function, for example, is absent in Yesim.
Airalo offers another cost-effective solution. The validity period starts once the phone connects to any Egyptian network. So, if you’re in Egypt, but the Internet is not active, the time doesn’t count.
Activation and Compatibility
The easiest way is app activation. Download the program from the App Store and Play Market and follow the instructions. To see if your phone works with eSIM, visit Airalo’s Help Center. Use the search bar to find compatibility information.
What Do Users Say About Airalo in Egypt?
Unfortunately, many users experience trouble connecting in Egypt. Most probably, it happens because of poor Orange coverage. At the same time, other customers praise quality and speed. Check how Orange works in your destination, particularly. While connection in big cities is good, some regions are not covered.
Nomad: Versatile Plans
Nomad is quite cheap if you buy up to 20 GB. Otherwise, you may overpay. Use this provider if you need a stable connection and travel for at least a week.
Coverage
The company works with Orange provider. At the same time, some plans are called “Orange” and some – “Orange Egypt”. The difference is not quite clear. Yet, users are content with coverage everywhere.
Plans and Pricing
7 plans with prepaid data are available:
- 20 GB for $46.
- 10 GB for $28;
- 5 GB for $18;
- 3 GB for $13;
- 1 GB for $6;
- 1 GB for $9.
Buying 20 GB, you pay only $2.3 per each. Also, there are two 1GB plans. The cheaper offers Orange provider, and the $9 one works with Orange Egypt.
Activation and Compatibility
You need to scan a QR code and set some things manually. Receive the QR code once you pay, install the eSIM, and then turn it on in your phone settings. Beginners may find this way too complicated. Alternatively, download the official Nomad eSIM application.
What Do Users Say About Nomad eSIM in Egypt?
Customers compliment the amazing coverage. Even on excursions, users are well-connected. The drawback lies in prices. Mr. Worldwide from Trustpilot claims that local SIM cards are cheaper.
Instabridge: Online Security and Special Perks
Instabridge seems like a fresh breath in the industry. This provider offers unique features: download the personal VPN, use a data-saving browser mode, and protect your data. Instabeidge also has a separate app with Wi-Fi maps all over the world. Is it so good in terms of connection, though? Or is it covering disadvantages with perks? Be ready that some information is hard to find, and you need to search through the Help Center manually.
Coverage
In Egypt, Instabridge works with Etisalat Egypt and EMS Mobinil Egypt. Compared to Orange, these providers are younger, yet they offer decent connection and 4G speed.
Plans and Pricing
You can choose among 4 prepaid plans:
- 1 GB for $3;
- 3 GB for $8;
- 10 GB for $23;
- 20 GB for $41.
The pricing is quite competitive. Even buying 1 GB, you pay only $3. This makes Instabridge the cheapest and the best eSIM for short-term trips.
Activation and Compatibility
Users recommend the Instabridge app for activation. You don’t need any manual procedure. Install the app, buy the plan here, and the activation happens automatically. A detailed list of compatible devices is available on the official site. Onstabeidge regularly updates it, so stay tuned.
What Do Users Say About Instabridge in Egypt?
Currently, Instabridge doesn’t have the Trustpilot page. The reviews from the App Store are different – some claim that everything is alright, while others experience trouble connecting to the Internet. Some Reddit users say that Instabridge deletes negative reviews. However, this information is not confirmed.
Final Thoughts: Which Provider to Choose?
While each provider has pros and cons, the final decision of the best eSIM for Egypt is yours. See the key aspects.
| The eSIM company | Yesim | Airalo | Nomad | Instabridge |
| Coverage in Egypt | Orange. Supports 5G, 4G, 3G, and LTE. | Orange. Information about 4g/5g/LTE is not mentioned. | Orange and Orange Egypt. 4G connection only. | Etisalat Egypt and EMS Mobinil Egypt. 4G Internet. |
| Activation | Via QR code (sent by email) or Yesim application | Via application. | Installation via QR code, then manually | Via application. |
| Pricing | from $3 to $7 per 1 GB depending on the duration | from $4.4 to $7 per 1 GB depending on the data volume | from $2.30 to $9 per 1 GB depending on data volume and duration | $3 per 1 GB or cheaper (depending on data volume) |
| Unlimited connection pricing | $7.70 per day | unavailable | unavailable | unavailable |
| Unique features | automatic activation after paymentpostponed activationunlimited hotspot | – | – | data saving browser for your phone |
| Advantages | a convenient app for activating and plan purchases;wide coverage in Egypt. | competitive pricing;easy app activation. | Versatile plans;Pricing depends on duration. | Wi-Fi map;data-saving features. |
| Disadvantages | The website lacks detailed information on each tariff | No unlimited Internet plans | Limited information on speed and tariffs. | little information on roaming partners, plan details, etc.;limited coverage in Egypt. |
Some More Tips for the Best eSIM Choice and Usage
The key is differentiating companies’ pros and cons. In terms of price, prioritize Airalo, while Nomad has the best coverage. And if you need a fast connection, choose providers that support WE. This local SIM provider offers 4G and is the best SIM company in Egypt. Plus, remember of your priorities:
- Choose coverage if you travel across the country and its distant parts;
- Prioritize pricing if you don’t need much data;
- Look for long-term or short-term plans, depending on your stay duration.
Remember special features as well. Unessential for some people, they may be crucial for you. Yesim, for example, offers an unlimited hotspot. Nomad is famous for regular discounts. Instabridge, meanwhile, is the best for those who need data safety. Many entrepreneurs and companies choose it to secure passwords and personal information.
Conclusion
Choosing the right eSIM for your Egyptian travel is crucial. In 2024, this is a way to remain connected and use the Internet without roaming. For the best fit, consider your priorities: coverage, speed, pricing, or device compatibility. Remember to read reviews before buying any plan. Be careful and ensure you know how to install and activate an eSIM before you arrive in the country. And what are your thoughts on Egyptian eSIM offers? Have you tried any? Share your experiences and seek support from seasoned travelers.
In 2024, few providers accept it. The implementation of 5G was officially announced, but you’ll hardly connect to it. Prioritize companies with 4G instead.
Depends on the data volume, plan, and the provider. The common price per 1 GB in Egypt is $7. Instabridge is an exception – it offers 1 GB per $3.
Do it before your trip, while you’re connected to the Internet. You’ll receive detailed instructions from your provider. Activate via the unique QR code or an application.
