Getting online in Egypt with an eSIM is easier than ever in 2024. Avoid roaming charges and benefit from faster speeds by purchasing an Egypt eSIM before your trip.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the top eSIM providers available for travel to Egypt. I’ll share hands-on experience using these eSIMs along with tips to help you choose the best option based on your needs and budget.
Whether you need a basic data plan or unlimited internet access, you’ll find an eSIM solution for Egypt here.
An Overview of eSIMs for Egypt
Before jumping into the top picks, let’s go over the basics. Here’s a quick 101 on what eSIMs are and why they make travel connectivity a breeze:
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or electronic SIM card, stores your plan details digitally instead of on a physical card. eSIMs integrate directly with the modem inside eSIM-compatible smartphones and devices.
To connect, you simply download a profile containing network credentials to access available carriers at your destination.
Why Use an eSIM in Egypt?
eSIMs help eliminate roaming charges by providing access to local rates and plans. They make travel connectivity more convenient by removing the need to obtain a physical SIM card when visiting Egypt.
With an eSIM, you can have a data plan ready before your trip and stay connected as soon as you land. Plus, switching between plans is a cinch without swapping out SIMs.
Are eSIMs Available From Local Carriers in Egypt?
Some providers do offer eSIMs in Egypt, like Orange Egypt and Etisalat. However, these are only accessible to residents and postpaid customers.
As a traveler, your best bet is to go with international eSIM providers that cater specifically to tourists visiting Egypt.
The 6 Best eSIMs for Egypt
Based on pricing, included data, coverage, and ease of use, these are my top picks for eSIMs in Egypt this year.
1. Airalo
I’ve tested Airalo myself across 4 continents, and it hasn’t let me down yet. For Egypt, they stand out for rock-bottom pricing coupled with a stellar user experience.
While Airalo has historically been a data-only provider, in late 2022 they introduced a new Global eSIM with calling & texting.
For Egypt, I recommend going with the Airalo Discover+ Global eSIM if you want calling and texts. And the Giza Mobile eSIM if you just need data.
Here’s an overview of what Airalo offers travelers to Egypt:
Airalo Giza Mobile (Data Only)
Price – From $7 for 1GB valid for 7 days to $26.50 for 5GB over 30 days
Data – 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, and 5GB options with 7-day, 15-day, and 30-day validity
Coverage – Egypt’s Orange network
Perks – Plans available with or without auto-renewal. Easy top-up if you need more data mid-trip
Airalo Discover+ Global eSIM (With Calling & Texting)
Price – From $15 for 1GB data + 10 minutes/SMS valid for 7 days. Goes up to 365-day packages with 200 minutes/SMS
Data – Options range from 1GB to 20GB
Countries – 140+ including Egypt, with the ability to use your text/talk minutes to call landlines and mobile phones internationally
Perks – Calling and texts give you peace of mind across Egypt and beyond. Ultra-affordable prices for maximum global connectivity
For data-only plans in Egypt, Airalo can’t be beaten on cost. Their new global eSIM makes travel connectivity effortless no matter where your adventures take you.
2. DENT eSIM
DENT has become synonymous with hassle-free global roaming in over 75 countries. You can pick up a tourist eSIM plan for Egypt in a few taps without registration.
Here’s an overview of DENT’s Egypt offering:
Price – $9 for 1GB data, $17 for 3.5GB, $26 for 6GB
Data – Packages ranging from 500MB up to 6GB
Coverage – Access provided on Etisalat Misr’s LTE network
Perks – Plans have a 30-day validity. DENT has an easy-to-use app to manage your account
If you download the DENT eSIM app, you can purchase plans before take-off and activate your service upon arrival in Egypt. It’s an uncomplicated way to get set up with a reliable Etisalat Misr data connection.
Keep in mind that DENT eSIM plans are data-only. You won’t get calling and texting capabilities. So if you need to make calls or send SMS messages within Egypt, another provider like Airalo might serve you better.
That said, DENT does give you WiFi calling capability using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Zoom and others. As long as you have a data connection, you can call and message people back home without paying exorbitant roaming fees.
3. AlwaysOnline Wireless
California-based AlwaysOnline Wireless offers both global and local eSIMs tailored to the countries you’re visiting.
Let’s have a look at what they provide travelers headed to Egypt:
Price – $15 for 5GB of LTE/4G data valid for 30 days
Data – Currently only a single 5GB, 30-day option
Coverage – Uses Vodafone network, Egypt’s largest by subscribers
Perks – Plans work in other countries too if your travels continue beyond Egypt. Support via in-app chat or email
The 5GB of full-speed data should easily get most travelers through a 1-2 week Egypt trip if conservatively used. AlwaysOnline’s Egypt eSIM works out cheaper than Vodafone’s own Travel Data Packs purchased in-country.
One word of caution – I have found AlwaysOnline’s website and app a bit unintuitive at times. Make sure to follow the setup instructions they email to confirm your eSIM is properly installed before departing on your trip.
4. Truphone eSIM
As one of the pioneers in eSIM technology since 2014, Truphone is a trusted solution for connectivity abroad.
They offer an eSIM designed for use in the Middle East region with the following details:
Price – $30 for 10 days with unlimited data use in Egypt
Data – Unlimited at 4G LTE speeds
Countries – All Middle East nations plus Afghanistan and Pakistan
Perks – 10-day plan can activate whenever needed. Multiple countries covered in one eSIM package.
If you want the peace of mind unlimited data provides alongside fast speeds, Truphone delivers. You do pay a premium over more budget-friendly picks though.
One cool perk Truphone includes is free incoming calls in Egypt, even on their data-only plan. Outbound calls are charged at advertised local rates.
Keep in mind that while advertised as unlimited data, Truphone reserves the right to throttle your speeds if you exceed 60GB during any 30-day period. For most, that threshold should provide more than enough data coverage visiting Egypt and the rest of the Middle East region.
5. Orange Holiday eSIM
In October 2022, Orange introduced new Holiday eSIM packages aimed at travelers in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Egypt.
Here are the quick details on Orange’s offering:
Price – $41 for 10 days with 10GB high-speed data
Data – Two options: 7-days with 5GB or 10-days with 10GB
Coverage – Over 55 destinations including Egypt, on Orange networks where available
Perks – Unused data rolls over if you buy a second package. eSIMs work for future trips too.
If you’re already an Orange mobile customer in your home country, their new Holiday eSIM for travel comes with some nice perks. You keep your phone number while using the same account login abroad.
However, prices are at the higher end of the market, and packages only last a week or two. Great if Egypt is part of a brief tour beyond Europe, for example. But for longer Egyptian holidays, I’d probably opt for a max duration eSIM available up to 30 days like Airalo or DENT.
Still, solid speeds and the convenience factor of sticking with your regular Orange mobile carrier overseas make this worth a look.
6. Ubigi
With coverage in over 165 countries, Ubigi is a relatively new player slowly making inroads in the eSIM market since starting up in 2017.
Let’s look at what they offer for Egypt:
Price – $16 starter kits that include 500MB data. $33 per GB of data credited from there. $49 for unlimited talk and text capabilities.
Data – 500MB trial kit to start. Add 1GB credits as needed from $33 per GB
Coverage – Vodafone Egypt network along with multiple providers on 5 continents
Perks – Pool shared data across devices. Dual SIM functionality saving active SIM slot.
Ubigi tries to differentiate itself through perks like sharing data allowance across multiple devices and keeping your usual SIM active in dual SIM phones. No carrying around extra hardware to swap physical SIM cards.
However, once you get beyond the 500MB starter kit, costs get relatively expensive fast. At $33+ per GB, most travelers will find better value in 1-2 week packages from other leading eSIM providers here.
But if you need extreme flexibility, potentially opening the door for using an Ubigi eSIM long term across Egypt and other countries, it warrants a look for advanced digital nomads. Everyone else will likely be happier getting setup with Airalo, DENT or alternatives instead.
What Is the Best eSIM for Egypt?
All six of the above options will serve you just fine on travels around Egypt. However, when we weigh price against performance, coverage and features, my top recommendation is Airalo.
Airalo offers unrivaled value while delivering quality Egypt connectivity:
- Plans starting from $7 for 1GB make Airalo the budget choice
- Orange Egypt coverage taps into one of the more robust networks locally
- Top-ups take just seconds if requiring more data
- The Global eSIM means connectivity anywhere across 145+ countries with calling & texting ability
Between Airalo’s Giza Mobile data plans and next-gen Global eSIM, staying connected in Egypt is a breeze.
For other flexible eSIM choices, DENT is worth considering too. But for my money, Airalo comes out the winner this year.
Things to Consider When Picking an Egypt eSIM
To select the ideal eSIM provider for your travel needs in Egypt, keep these key factors in mind:
Network Coverage Where You’re Traveling
Some carriers leverage different network partners across Egypt. Make sure to select an eSIM based on coverage within your specific destination regions.
Many focus on Cairo and central areas. If venturing to resort towns along the Red Sea or cruising down the Nile, double check carrier map reach.
Duration of Travel in Egypt
If only in Egypt for a few nights or up to a week, prioritize low cost. Options from Airalo provide great value for shorter trips starting under $10.
Staying for 1-3 weeks opens you up to tiered offerings with longer validity and more generous data caps from the likes of DENT.
Month+ long stays? Seek flexible top up capabilities paired with auto renewal whenever possible.
Your Expected Data Usage
To calculate how much data you need when traveling in Egypt, consider these usage estimates as a baseline:
- Light use (email, basic maps and messaging apps) – 500MB/day
- Medium use (light use + social media, web browsing) – 1GB/day
- Heavy use (medium use + video/music streaming, large downloads) – 2GB+ per day
Most travelers fit safely under light or medium use levels. If you plan to stream HD video content for hours daily, swing for the highest data packages or unlimited where possible.
Capabilities Beyond Data
While data-only plans still suit most visitors, having SMS or calling functionality is a game changer in emergencies. It also keeps your trip apps working sans WiFi.
If relying solely on eSIM connectivity without roaming capability on another SIM line from your home carrier, make sure your provider enables full mobile functionality.
Are eSIMs Available From Local Carriers in Egypt?
Some top telecommunications companies like Orange Egypt and Etisalat Misr have introduced eSIM capabilities, but with caveats.
Prepaid customers and travelers don’t have access currently. Plans are restricted to postpaid subscribers and residents registering extensive documentation tied to local Egyptian addresses and banks.
Until restrictions ease up, tourists need to rely on the growing list of dedicated travel eSIM providers facilitating connectivity across Egypt.
How to Choose the Best eSIM for Egypt
While local carrier options are limited requiring residency, various global eSIM providers now enable data connectivity across Egypt.
Here is a checklist of key considerations when selecting your ideal eSIM for travel needs while visiting Egypt:
- Ensure your device supports eSIM functionality
- Pick an eSIM provider matching your trip length (look for 30-day options if staying longer)
- Calculate your expected total data needs
- Confirm coverage where you are visiting (Cairo? Resort towns?)
- Check rates and top-up fees if you go over Data limits
- Determine if you need calling, SMS and mobile data, or only data-only will suffice
- Review activation, delivery and support channels in case issues arise
Arming yourself with answers to these questions takes the guesswork out of getting set up hassle-free.
You want connectivity concerns erased from your mind, allowing complete immersion into your Egyptian adventures!
How Much Data Do You Really Need When Traveling in Egypt?
With so many pyramids to explore, temples to wander, markets to meander and shores to bask along, you don’t want to waste vacation time fretting over data balances.
To gauge how much data makes sense for your trip, let’s look at common usage amounts:
Activity – Data Used
- Emails received/sent – 5 emails = 5MB
- Google Maps navigation – 1 hour = 60MB
- Social media scrolling – 1 hour = 20MB
- Music streaming – 1 hour = 144MB
- SD video streaming – 1 hour = 730MB
Most eSIM data packs start in the 1-2GB range. With light to moderate usage, that’s often plenty for short Egypt getaways under two weeks:
- 5 emails and internet searches daily = 25MB
- 30 minutes social media catch up daily = 10MB
- 1-2 Google Maps route views daily = 120MB
Over two weeks, that tally comes to under 1GB total assuming 200MB averaged per day. Bump video streaming up drastically, long stays beyond a couple weeks, or if your work depends on heavy data transfers, and higher data limits in the 5-10GB vicinity make more sense.
Both DENT and Airalo make sizing up data straightforward with tiered offerings to suit varied traveler needs at reasonable price increments.
Do You Need a Special Phone to Use eSIMs in Egypt?
Luckily accessing eSIM connectivity has never been easier with capable devices more prevalent by the year. However, your phone or tablet still needs eSIM support to utilize the technology abroad.
So before purchasing an Egypt eSIM plan, double check your mobile device or other connected gadgets feature eSIM readiness.
Here’s a general guideline on compatibility:
- Most iPhones from iPhone XS (2018) forward support eSIM alongside Android phones released from 2019 onward
- Google Pixel phones have been eSIM compatible since the Pixel 3 series initially launched in 2018
- Recent flagship Samsung Galaxy models often support dual SIM with eSIM
- iPads gained eSIM capabilities in iPad Pro versions released since Fall 2018
- Laptops begin offering built-in eSIM connectivity including Microsoft Surface Pros now
- Some Garmin sport watches provide downloadable connectivity plans as wearables add eSIM access
Review your mobile device capabilities to confirm if an eSIM can be activated. If you have an older model lacking compatibility, external hotspot gadgets like Skyroam provide global data connectivity traveling to Egypt.
But with newer eSIM-ready phones now easy to source at reasonable prices, you’ll likely be set software wise to utilize the technology if device shopping before your travels.
Are eSIMs Difficult to Set Up?
If not already familiar configuring eSIMs previously, don’t worry. The setup process is straightforward for DIY installation before flying out:
1. Verify eSIM compatibility with your device manufacturer if unsure. You want confirmation your hardware and OS supports eSIM functionality.
2. Purchase your eSIM from your provider of choice for your travel dates and destination. You’ll complete checkout online and receive a follow-up email.
3. Download the eSIM app on your mobile device or tablet if required. For iOS, the process is completed natively under iPhone cellular settings.
4. Activate your eSIM app upon installation if requested. Otherwise proceed to the next step.
5. Tap to install your eSIM profile via email link, QR scan, or directly within the eSIM provider’s app interface.
6. Follow activation instructions which vary between GSM carriers, but usually involve a network restart.
