Getting a Tashkent Airport SIM card is one of the easiest ways to stay connected when visiting Uzbekistan. With shops located conveniently in the airport, you can grab a SIM card right after landing. The options available are affordable and cater to different needs, from light browsing to heavy data use. This guide will help you find the best choice for your trip.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Tashkent Airport?
There are 2 Tashkent Airport SIM card shops conveniently located in the baggage claim area, making it simple to get connected as soon as you land.
- Available Stores:
- Ucell Store: A dedicated store offering SIM card services.
- Tourist Information/Beeline Store: A combined information counter and SIM card provider.
- Payment Options: Both shops accept local currency (Uzbekistani Som), USD, and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard.
- Operating Hours: These shops are open 24/7, so you can buy a SIM card no matter what time your flight lands.
Note: Buy your SIM card before exiting the baggage claim area; there are no shops afterward.
II. Tashkent International Airport SIM Card options and costs
Prices may vary slightly, but these are the approximate costs you can expect to pay for a prepaid SIM card Tashkent Airport. Below are Ucell and Beeline SIM’s plans at Tashkent International Airport.
Ucell SIM Cards
- Plans and Prices:
- 20 GB + Unlimited Calls + 1,500 SMS: 50,000 UZS (~$4 USD)
- 35 GB + Unlimited Calls + 2,000 SMS: 70,000 UZS (~$6 USD)
- 50 GB + Unlimited Calls + 2,500 SMS: 100,000 UZS (~$8 USD)
- 200 GB + Unlimited Calls + 3,000 SMS: 150,000 UZS (~$12 USD)
- Features:
- All plans are valid for 1 month.
- Unlimited use of popular social media apps: Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook.
- Offers eSIM options but has limited 4G/LTE network coverage.
Beeline SIM Cards
- Plans and Prices:
- 10 GB + Unlimited Calls + 1,000 SMS + 20 GB Social Media: 80,000 UZS (~$6 USD)
- 20 GB + Unlimited Calls + 1,000 SMS + 40 GB Social Media: 100,000 UZS (~$8 USD)
- 35 GB + Unlimited Calls + 1,000 SMS + 70 GB Social Media: 130,000 UZS (~$10 USD)
- 50 GB + Unlimited Calls + Unlimited SMS + 100 GB Social Media: 170,000 UZS (~$14 USD)
- 100 GB + Unlimited Calls + Unlimited SMS + 200 GB Social Media: 190,000 UZS (~$15 USD)
- Unlimited Data, Calls, and SMS: 230,000 UZS (~$19 USD)
- Features:
- Plans are valid for 1 month.
- Extensive 4G/LTE network coverage.
- Does not offer eSIM options.
Recommendation:
- Ucell is ideal for budget-conscious travelers with affordable plans but limited network coverage.
- Beeline provides better coverage and premium plans for heavier data users.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Tashkent International Airport
Travelers arriving in Uzbekistan can purchase a Tashkent Airport SIM card upon arrival, but there are a few important things to have prepared beforehand. Here’s what you need to know:
- Your passport – Keep it handy! The staff will need to scan or copy it for registration
- Cash in USD or Uzbek Som – Most kiosks accept both currencies, but cash is king here
- A few minutes of your time – The process is quick, usually takes 10-15 minutes
- An unlocked phone – Double-check before your trip that your phone isn’t carrier-locked
- Basic info for registering – They’ll ask for Your name, Passport number, and local address (hotel name is fine)
- Google Translate on your phone – Just in case! Not all staff speak English fluently
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Tashkent International Airport
Travelers can now activate their mobile data before landing in Tashkent, making the arrival experience smooth. The digital setup takes just minutes, and swapping physical cards or visiting any counters is unnecessary.
europe-esim.com provides reliable eSIM packages for Uzbekistan, which have excellent coverage through the Beeline network. Our plans include blazing-fast 4G/LTE/5G connectivity and flexible options to suit any travel duration.
Key Features of Uzbekistan eSIM Plans:
- Data Options:
- Daily plans: 500MB to 3GB per day
- Fixed plans: 1GB to 30GB total
- Unlimited data with 5Mbps speed
- Price Range: $3.50 – $128.00 (great value for travelers coming to Uzbekistan)
- Validity: 3 to 30 days to match your travel schedule
For the best travel experience in Uzbekistan, eSIM is the way to go. It’s modern, convenient, and eliminates the stress of dealing with Tashkent Airport SIM cards at the airport. Just make sure your device is eSIM-compatible before purchasing, and you’ll be all set for your Uzbekistan adventure!
V. FAQs
Where can I buy a SIM card upon arrival at Tashkent International Airport?
You can purchase Tashkent Airport SIM cards from Ucell and Beeline at their respective shops located in the baggage claim area. Both stores operate 24/7 and accept local currency (Uzbekistani Som), USD, and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard.
Are eSIM options available at Tashkent International Airport?
Yes, Ucell offers eSIM options, allowing travelers to activate mobile data before landing, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards.
Is it possible to purchase a SIM card after exiting the baggage claim area?
No, SIM card shops are located within the baggage claim area. It’s advisable to purchase your SIM card before exiting, as there are no shops available afterward.
VI. Final words
Purchasing a local SIM card at Tashkent International Airport is a convenient option for tourists. Major operators have kiosks in the arrival halls, offering quick and affordable plans. Alternatively, eSIM is an increasingly available hassle-free choice, allowing virtual activation on your device. Getting connected at the airport ensures reliable access to stay in touch during your time in Uzbekistan.