SIM card and internet in Uzbekistan for tourists: eSIM, operators, prices (2026)

Two ways to get online

Local operators and approximate prices

Prices change often, so treat these as a rough guide (around spring 2026):

Buying a local SIM

1. Bring your passport: foreigners must register the SIM, and shops will copy it.
2. The easiest place is the operator desk at Tashkent airport; the desk may be closed at night, so have an eSIM or roaming as a backup.
3. City shops can be cheaper, but staff may speak only Uzbek and Russian. Have the plan name or price written down.
4. Activation usually takes a few minutes, occasionally a few hours.
5. If you stay longer than a month, ask the operator whether your phone needs to be registered (IMEI); rules for long stays have changed over time.

eSIM

• Regional and global eSIM apps (such as Airalo, Holafly or GigSky) sell Uzbekistan plans; small data packs start at a few dollars, and unlimited plans cost much more.
• Install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi, then switch it on when you land.
• Check that your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM.

Useful tips

• Public Wi-Fi in cafés and hotels is often slow, so keep mobile data on for maps and your taxi app.
• Download offline maps of the cities you will visit, and the Uzbek or Russian language pack for your translator.
• Many guides and small businesses answer on Telegram, so install it.
• In UzGidAI you can use the phrasebook offline, but asking the guide needs internet.