Telecom companies to begin eSim operations this week

Cairo – December 2, 2024: eSims are expected to be officially introduced sometime this week, according to several sources speaking to various news outlets.

The digital sim card software will be available for purchase at a price of around EGP 270 through four major mobile operators, explained a source from the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA).

eSIM, or embedded SIM, offers a digital alternative to traditional physical SIM cards. With eSIM, users can activate their mobile service by simply scanning a QR code or entering a code, eliminating the need for a physical card.

This new service will be compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, marking a significant milestone in Egypt's telecommunications landscape.

Many modern smartphones, including the latest models from Apple, Samsung, and Google, already support eSIM technology, and it is widely believed that physical SIM cards could soon be a thing of the past.

The launch comes after extensive preparations by mobile operators. According to Al Mal on Sunday, several telecom companies have been updating their internal systems and integrating new software to support the eSIM rollout. These technical adjustments follow the NTRA's formal approval to begin offering eSIM services to customers.

This isn't the first time Egypt has made efforts to introduce eSIMs. In 2022, Telecom Egypt completed successful initial tests of eSIM technology on its network, collaborating with global industry leaders to ensure technical readiness and smooth service delivery.

According to data from the Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) in October, Egypt's telecommunications sector reported 110.41 million mobile subscribers and 12.84 million landline subscribers in Q2 2024.

The launch of eSIM technology aligns with broader advancements in Egypt’s telecom sector. In October, the NTRA signed an agreement with Telecom Egypt, Orange Egypt, Vodafone Egypt, and e& Egypt, granting them licenses to offer fifth-generation (5G) mobile services.