With its spectacular Pyramids of Giza, rich cultural heritage, and warm weather throughout most of the year, Egypt is a popular vacation destination for travelers from around the world. And if you’ve landed on this article, you’re most likely planning a trip there.
Along with important tasks like sorting out your travel documents and packing essentials, deciding how you’ll stay connected to the internet is crucial for making the most of your trip to Egypt.
When it comes to internet connection, there are several options to choose from. By far, one of the most convenient and affordable options is eSIMs, allowing you to have mobile data abroad without swapping SIM cards or paying high roaming fees.
In this article, I’ll guide you through my top picks for the best eSIM for Egypt, highlighting their main features along with their key pros and cons.
How to choose an eSIM for travel in Egypt?
eSIMs have undoubtedly revolutionized the way people stay connected to the internet while traveling. Swapping SIM cards, relying on Wi-Fi, or paying high data roaming fees are no longer the norm. With just a few taps, an eSIM provides budget-friendly mobile data anywhere in the world.
However, with so many providers to choose from, picking the right one can turn into a quite challenging task. Here are the key criteria you should consider when picking an eSIM for your trip to Egypt:
Data speed and coverage
Pick an eSIM that connects to reliable local networks so you’re not stuck without internet in certain areas. Whether you’re exploring the cities or more remote spots, having solid 4G or 5G speeds makes all the difference for streaming, maps, or just staying connected.
Cost and data limits
Let’s face it, no one likes overpaying for data. Look for an eSIM with a price that fits your budget and offers enough data for your trip. Some plans even come with unlimited data, which may be perfect if you’re a heavy user. A bonus tip: double-check for any hidden fees so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Device compatibility
Not all devices are eSIM-compatible, so make sure yours is before buying. Most newer smartphones, tablets, and even some laptops work with eSIMs, but it’s always worth checking. Also, don’t forget to confirm that the eSIM provider works with your specific device model.
Travel duration
Your trip length is also an important factor when choosing an eSIM. For a short vacation, a small plan that lasts a few days might do the trick. If you’re staying longer, look for a plan with more data and extended validity. And if you’re unsure about your dates, flexible options are always a win.
Tethering functionality
Planning to share your internet with friends or other devices? Make sure your eSIM allows tethering or hotspot use. It’s a lifesaver when you’re traveling in a group or need to connect your laptop. Not all eSIMs offer this, so double-check before you buy.w
How We Rank eSIM Providers
While we strive to provide an objective ranking, our recommendations are grounded in thorough research and key factors such as:
Reliability
Network quality and consistency across different regions in Germany
Pricing
Value for money and competitive rates for data packages
User Ratings
Customer satisfaction and reviews from real travelers
Ease of Use
Simplicity of activation, app interface, and setup process
Extra Features
Additional benefits like tethering, multi-device support, and customer service
📌 Note: Prices and features may change, so we always recommend checking the latest details on the provider's official website before purchasing.
Best eSIM providers for Egypt
Each provider on my list of the best eSIMs for Egypt comes with its own unique benefits. To help you out with the selection process, I’ve broken them down based on key factors like network speed, plans, pricing, and customer support.
Airalo
international coverage with local rates
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
Supports cellular networks: Destinations: 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G 200+
Airalo is a popular and reputable eSIM provider, boasting coverage in over 200 countries and regions. Fun fact: in May 2024, it reached an impressive milestone of 10 million users.
Network types: While Airalo generally offers various connectivity types, for Egypt eSIM, only LTE is available. Luckily, LTE is fast and reliable enough for things like streaming, browsing, and maps, so it works great for most travelers. That said, there’s no 5G option, which might be a downside if you’re looking for super-fast speeds for HD streaming or gaming.
Plans and pricing: Currently, Airalo offers five data-only plans for Egypt. The cheapest plan costs $7, providing 1 GB of data for a week. Keep in mind that Airalo’s pricing is on the higher end of the scale, so if you’re after something more affordable, it might be worth looking into other options.
Customer support: Airalo offers 24/7 customer support through live chat. In addition, you can reach them via email or check out their extensive FAQ section. User feedback regarding Airalo’s customer service is mixed, with some appreciating the 24/7 availability and others criticizing unhelpful automated responses, long response times, poor issue resolution, and difficulties with refunds.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 200+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Wide selection of multi-country plans
- ✓ Flexible plan selection for Egypt
- ✓ Top-up option
- ✓ Offers unlimited data plans for some countries
Cons
- • 5G not available in Egypt
- • Users report issues with customer support
Saily
reliable and affordable plans
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
The second provider on my best eSIM for Egypt list is Saily. Launched by the creators of NordVPN in 2023, it has already gained a loyal customer base, thanks to its easy-to-use app and affordable plans.
To learn more about this provider, check out my dedicated Saily review.
Network types: Specifically in Egypt, Saily provides 3G and LTE connectivity. These network types are fast and reliable, making them great for most travelers. That said, the lack of 5G might be a downside if you’re planning to use it for things like HD streaming or gaming.
Plans and pricing: Saily is known for its budget-friendly pricing and Egypt is no exception. Currently, there are four plans available for Egypt, starting with a 1 GB plan priced at just $6.29, valid for one week.
Customer support: If you run into any issues, you can contact Saily’s customer support team via live chat, available 24/7. Besides that, there’s an option to contact them through a request form or explore their in-depth FAQ section. The user reviews online are mostly positive, with customers praising their fast responses and helpful support team.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 190+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Budget-friendly plans
- ✓ Top-up option
- ✓ Single-install eSIM
Cons
- • 5G not available in Egypt
- • No unlimited data plans
Nomad
great selection of budget-friendly plans for Egypt
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
With coverage in over 190 destinations and convenient regional plans, Nomad is another reliable eSIM provider on my list.
To learn more about this eSIM provider, check out my in-depth Nomad review.
Network types: Nomad offers LTE for Egypt eSIM, which is the standard connectivity type for most eSIM providers in the country. Although 5G isn’t available, LTE provides more than enough speed and coverage for most travelers.
Plans and pricing: With five plans currently available, Nomad offers a great selection for Egypt. The smallest data costs $6, providing 1 GB of data for a week. In fact, Nomad is one of the most affordable plans on this list, especially when buying bigger data plans.
Customer support: Nomad has a few channels for customer support, allowing you to contact them through 24/7 live chat or email. In addition, their extensive FAQ section can come in handy as well. Overall, most users seem to find Nomad’s customer support responsive, efficient, and helpful, with the live chat being a standout for quick
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 190+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Budget-friendly plans
- ✓ Flexible plan selection for Egypt
- ✓ Top-up option
Cons
- • 5G not available in Egypt
- • Some users reported network issues in certain locations
JetPac
multi-country plans for flexible usage
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
150+
Jetpac, covering over 150 destinations, is especially convenient if you’re planning to visit not just one but multiple countries. Besides Egypt, its plans for this destination also work in seven other countries, such as Morocco, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates.
Network types: As with most eSIM providers, Jetpac offers travelers to Egypt access to an LTE network. Yet, as I mentioned before, this type of connectivity is usually more than enough for browsing, using maps, streaming, and chatting.
Plans and pricing: Currently, there are eight data plans for Egypt to choose from. The smallest plan offers 1 GB for $4, valid for four days. While the smaller data plans are quite budget-friendly, the larger ones tend to be a bit more expensive compared to some other providers.
Customer support: Jetpac’s customer support team can be reached through multiple channels, including 24/7 live chat, WhatsApp, and email. On the website, they also have an in-depth FAQ section. Most users online seem to be happy about Jetpac’s customer service, describing it as responsive and helpful. I only managed to find a few complaints mentioning slow responses and unresolved issues.
Pros
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Budget-friendly small data plans
- ✓ Plans for Egypt work in 7 other countries
- ✓ Top-up option
Cons
- • 5G not available in Egypt
- • Relatively limited coverage (150+ countries and destinations)
- • Larger data plans are quite expensive
aloSIM
global connectivity for data and calls
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
175+
Lastly, we have aloSIM, with coverage in over 175 countries and destinations. What’s unique about this provider is that with most of its plans, you also get a free international phone number that runs over the internet, allowing you to call and text.
Network types: With data plans for Egypt, aloSIM provides LTE connectivity. As mentioned earlier, this type of network is more than sufficient for browsing, using maps, and staying in touch with friends and family. Unless you have very specific requirements, it should cover all your travel needs.
Plans and pricing: For Egypt, there are five plans to choose from. 1 GB of data is valid for a week and costs $7, which is slightly more compared to most of the other providers on this list. The pricing for other aloSIM plans is also on the higher end.
Customer support: aloSIM provides customer support through 24/7 live chat and email. In addition, there’s an FAQ section with loads of useful information. In terms of customer feedback, their support has received many good reviews online, with people mentioning how responsive and helpful it is.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 175+ countries
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Free international phone number that runs over the internet
- ✓ Top-up option
Cons
- • 5G not available in Egypt
- • Some users reported network issues in certain locations
- • Quite expensive
- •
Comparison table of plans for Egypt
| Provider | Countries covered | Customer support | Starting price | 24/7 customer support | Tethering | Unlimited data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo |
🌍 200+
|
Average | $7.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Saily |
🌍 180+
|
Great | $6.29 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| Nomad |
🌍 190+
|
Great | $6.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| JetPac |
🌍 150+
|
Great | $4.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| aloSIM |
🌍 175+
|
Great | $7.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find helpful information to answer common questions about eSIMs in Egypt
Is there 5G in Egypt?
Can I make calls using an eSIM in Egypt?
When will eSIM be available in Egypt?
Simple ways to activate your eSIM
The activation process for an eSIM card can vary slightly depending on the provider. That said, there are a few common methods for activation, including manual activation, using a QR code, through the provider’s app, via their website, or in-store. Below, I’ll describe each method in more detail.
Manual activation
For manual activation, you’ll need to enter specific details shared by your eSIM provider, such as the SM-DP+ address. This is a unique URL that connects your device to the provider’s system, allowing it to download and activate the eSIM profile. You may also need an activation code or confirmation from your provider to complete the setup.
QR code activation
This one’s super easy and the most common one. Your provider gives you a QR code, and you just scan it with your phone and follow the on-screen prompts. The code automatically loads the eSIM details and sets everything up for you.
Using the provider’s app
Many eSIM providers offer their own apps, making the activation process quick and easy. With just a few taps, you can get your eSIM set up directly on your device.
For example, with Saily, once you’ve bought your eSIM, you simply download their app, log in, and follow the easy instructions to activate your eSIM. The app will guide you through each step, making the process seamless and straightforward.
Activate via the provider’s website
Some eSIM providers allow you to activate your eSIM directly from their website. After purchasing, you simply log into their portal, follow the provided instructions, and your eSIM is activated through your browser. It’s a convenient option, especially if you prefer using a computer.
Additionally, many providers offer in-depth explanations and step-by-step guides on their websites to make sure you have all the details you need for a smooth activation process.
In-store activation
If you’d rather have a little extra help, in-store activation is a great option. You can visit a store that sells eSIMs or a dedicated kiosk, where staff will assist you in getting the eSIM up and running on your phone.
Checking eSIM compatibility with your phone
While the majority of newer phones support eSIM technology, it’s always a good idea to double-check before buying.
Here’s how you can check for both iPhone and Android devices:
For iPhone devices
Generally, all iPhones from the iPhone XS onward support eSIM functionality. However, if you want to be extra sure, follow these steps:
- Go to “Settings” > “Cellular.”
- Look for an option called “Add Cellular Plan.”
- If this option is available, it means that your iPhone supports eSIM.
For Android devices
Most Android phones from 2018 onward also support eSIM, but it can vary by model and carrier. To check:
- Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Mobile Network.”
- Look for an option to “Add Carrier” or “Add eSIM.”
- If this option appears, your Android device supports eSIM.
General note
Keep in mind that some carriers might have restrictions based on your location or the plan you’re on. For example, certain carriers only support eSIM on specific iPhone and Android devices. To avoid any surprises, it’s also a good idea to check with your carrier or eSIM provider to make sure everything’s good to go before you proceed.
Final thoughts
Using an eSIM is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to stay connected while traveling. When choosing the best eSIM for Egypt, all five providers I mentioned could be great options. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your personal travel needs, such as the duration of your trip, data usage, and the places you’ll be visiting, among other factors. Make sure to think these through before making a decision to ensure your adventures are seamless and enjoyable.