Egypt is set to officially introduce eSIM technology this week, according to sources from various news outlets. The digital SIM card software will be available for purchase at approximately EGP 270 through four major mobile operators, as confirmed by a representative from the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA).
eSIM, or embedded SIM, offers a digital alternative to traditional physical SIM cards, allowing users to activate their mobile services simply by scanning a QR code or entering a code, removing the need for a physical card. This technology will be compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, marking a significant advancement in Egypt’s telecommunications industry.
Many modern smartphones, including the latest Apple, Samsung, and Google models, already support eSIM, and industry experts predict that physical SIM cards may soon be phased out entirely. The rollout follows extensive preparations by mobile operators, with several telecom companies updating their internal systems and integrating new software to accommodate the eSIM service. This comes after the NTRA’s official approval for eSIM offerings to customers.
Egypt has previously trialed eSIM technology, with Telecom Egypt conducting successful tests in 2022 in partnership with global industry leaders to ensure smooth implementation. The country’s telecommunications sector, as reported by the Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC), had 110.41 million mobile subscribers and 12.84 million landline subscribers in Q2 2024.
The introduction of eSIM aligns with broader developments in Egypt’s telecom sector. In October, the NTRA signed agreements with Telecom Egypt, Orange Egypt, Vodafone Egypt, and e& Egypt, granting licenses to offer fifth-generation (5G) mobile services, further positioning Egypt as a key player in the digital age.
