Back in the day, it was a huge hassle to get a Pakistani SIM card while in Pakistan. The SIM card registration regulations got tightened up after several terrorist attacks.
Not only was this a challenge for travelers, but it was even more challenging for the locals, who had to re-register their SIM cards twice within a two year – with photos, government ID information captures, and even fingerprints collected (one of the few countries in the world to do so).
This caused long lines as phone shops for a long time. Let's hope not many more countries will introduce such strict SIM card registration schemes
Nowadays, after a rocky start, it is relatively easy to get a SIM card, even for travelers. However, the process of getting a SIM card (activated) may take longer than what you are used to.
But first things first, how much will a SIM card cost you?
You can get a Pakistani SIM card between 200 PKR (0.65 USD) to 570 PKR (2.85 USD) in the official stores of the four operators (Jazz, Telenor, Zong & Ufone). A data package featuring 1 GB valid for 7 days can be obtained for as low as 120 PKR (0.40 USD).
Okay, so we know that SIM cards and mobile data are cheap in Pakistan, which is a good thing.
The less you pay for SIM cards and local packages, the more money you can spend on experiences while in Pakistan.
Something you could not do if you were to pay expensive international roaming rates.
But there is a lot more to know about getting yourself a SIM card in Pakistan. The operators, speeds, coverage, and packages.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Pakistan. Let's get started.
Original publication: 26th of February 2020. Last updated: 25th of September 2023.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Pakistan?
Everyone living in or visiting Pakistan is allowed to buy a Pakistani SIM card. Pakistani nationals can have 5 SIM cards active on their names. In contrast, foreign nationals, including Pakistan Origin Card holders can have 2 active SIM cards.
All SIM card purchases have to go through a rigorous registration process, which includes biometric capture (fingerprints).
And you also need a device that supports the frequencies used in Pakistan and have an unlocked (SIM-lock-free device).
Else, you can only use the SIM card provided by your home operator.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Pakistan?
You can buy a Pakistani SIM card in the four operators' official stores (Jazz, Telenor Pakistan, Zong, Ufone), its authorized franchises, and the Telenor Self Service Booths (TSSBs – Telenor only).
Do note that it is not possible to buy a SIM card at Islamabad International Airport or Karachi International Airport (officially known as Jinnah International Airport).
Here is an overview of what to expect to pay for a SIM card in Pakistan:
- Jazz: 500 PKR
- Telenor Pakistan: 200 PKR
- Zong: 200 PKR
- Ufone: Between 200 PKR and 570 PKR
TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for Pakistani SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).
Can You Use Your Phone in Pakistan?
To use your phone in Pakistan, you need a device that supports GSM. CDMA phones will not work in Pakistan anymore since 2018. Fortunately, there is a 99% chance that your phone supports GSM.
Pakistan uses primarily European frequencies. Those frequencies are used in countries in ITU Regions 1 & 3, including Africa, Asia (with the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania. Phones sold in ITU Regions 1 and 3 will have no connectivity issues when in Pakistan.
In the Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2), they use American frequencies. Those are different from European frequencies. Phones sold in ITU Region 2 may experience connectivity issues when in Pakistan.
If you have a low/medium-end device without Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, then you should go with Telenor Pakistan. It uses a 3G and 4G/LTE frequency (850 MHz – Band 5), which is one of the primary 3G and 4G/LTE frequencies used in ITU Region 2.
Suppose you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support. In that case, you should experience limited to no hindrance when using your phone in Pakistan.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Pakistan
Pakistan has four mobile network operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Jazz
- Telenor Pakistan
- Zong
- Ufone
The following frequencies are used by the Pakistani operators:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G: 850 MHz (Band 5), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2100 MHz (Band 1)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Pakistan, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
5G NR in Pakistan
5G NR is currently not available in Pakistan to the general public, and it will not be until late 2022.
Zong was the first operator in Pakistan to hold 5G trials in the summer of 2019, with speeds reaching more than 1 Gbps (1171 Mbps – see video).
The Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication noted that PTCL Group managed to achieve an even higher download speed of 1.685 Gbps (1685 Mbps) on the 12th of February 2021.
I will be discussing internet speeds in Pakistan in-depth a bit later (spoiler alert – it is slow).
You should note that 5G will not be available for commercial use until the end of 2022, as stated by Amin-ul-Haq, the Federal Minister for Information Technology & Telecommunication, when speaking as a chief guest at the 2nd PMFA Appreciation Awards in November 2020, as reported by The Nation.
Best SIM Card in Pakistan
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Pakistan, I recommend going with either Jazz or Zong. Jazz’ 2G network is the most extensive in Pakistan, but 2G is too slow for data browsing. Zong has the best 4G availability and coverage in the country. In terms of speed, both Jazz and Zong are topping the list.
Best eSIM in Pakistan
Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM (to prepaid customers) in Pakistan yet.
However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.
The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Pakistan.
But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.
Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).
So here are the seven best eSIMs for Pakistan:
- Pakistani mobile operators (one offer eSIMs to prepaid customers – read more in my Pakistan SIM card buying guide)
- Airalo Sheesh eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 10 GB (best value for money)
- Alosim Pakistan eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 10 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options – use code PTW for 5% off)
- Holafly Pakistan eSIM wwith unlimited data for 5 to 20 days (unlimited data eSIMs – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
- AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported Asian countries (12/32) at a reasonable price but with a short validity – SimOptions does sell other Asian eSIMs, but they are not as good as AIS)
- Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
- AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Pakistan, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).
If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Pakistan, you better check out my Pakistan eSIM buying guide.
It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.
SIM Card Registration in Pakistan
Pakistani SIM cards have to be registered with your personal information, such as your passport details or your Pakistan Origin Card (POC), your (valid) Visa, a photo of you, and a biometric scan of your thumb as part of the SIM card registration process. This will be done at the point of purchase.
At the time of writing, Pakistan is one of the 17 countries with biometric SIM card registration regulations.
The Pakistani government has tightened SIM card registration laws starting from 2014 because of terrorist attacks. Then, biometric registration was introduced.
Later, the photo requirement was added. And in 2015, all registered SIM cards had to be re-registered again.
Now, it is actually a crime to use an unregistered SIM card or use someone else's SIM card (with fines up to 500 000 PKR (3160 USD) or a maximum prison sentence of 3 years). In most cases, an unregistered SIM card will be deactivated swiftly by the operator once it notices that an unregistered SIM card uses its network. And most Pakistanis are hesitant to even give you their SIM card because of potential repercussions.
All SIM cards and fingerprints are verified and stores in the National Database and Registration Authority's (NADRA) national database.
Although Pakistani nationals are allowed to have 5 SIM cards to their name, foreign nationals or holders of Pakistan Origin Cards (POC) are allowed to have only 2 SIM cards issued to them. Moreover, the validity of the SIM card is tied to the validity of your Visa or POC.
Moreover, those with foreign phones (phones bought abroad) and who want to use a Pakistani SIM card for more than 14 days have to get their device whitelisted by the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA). This has to be done on the DIRBS website and cannot be done through the operator when purchasing your SIM card. You can only register five devices per year.
From the looks of it, access to the website is geo-restricted because I have yet been able to access that website for more than a year (outside of Pakistan – even when changing VPN locations). So I cannot give you instructions on how to use that tool (it will be a while because of the current conditions in the world)
When SIM card registration got tightened, getting a Pakistani SIM card was a challenge for travelers – headache-inducing, you could say. However, with more than 70 000 fingerprint scanners installed across the country, sales agents knowing what documents to process for foreigners, and a more streamlined process of processing SIM card registration, getting yourself a SIM card is not as bothersome as some other countries in the region. However, it may seem intimidating.
Internet Censorship in Pakistan
In 2019, it was reported that The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has apparently blocked more than 900 000 URLs in Pakistan for “reasons such as carrying blasphemous and pornographic content and/or sentiments against the state, judiciary or the armed forces.” Moreover, blasphemous, anti-Islamic, or threatening to internal security are also blocked.
With all this censorship, you may want to use a VPN to access blocked websites. Remember, the government's definition of some of the terms is subjective. Innocent blogs have been censored from the web without a solid reason (as in, them not even being critical of Pakistan, Islam, or anything controversial related to Pakistan).
This, with the excessive information required to be captured and stored by the government, which invades your individual privacy in various magditudes, should be a reason to keep your internet traffic private.
I recommend NordVPN and connecting to Indian servers, the closest to Pakistan (there are no VPN servers in Pakistan). Yes, I know Pakistan and India are not friends, but that does not matter if you want to keep your internet traffic secure.
Regional Taxes in Pakistan
Mobile operators in Pakistan have to charge their customers Goods and Service Tax (GST) based on the regional (provincial) tax rates and WHT (Advance Income Tax) on recharges, surcharges on recharges, and out-of-bundle voice and SMS traffic.
The GST and WHT rates differ per region. Below are the current tax rates:
| Region | WHT | GST |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab | 12.5% | 19.5% |
| Sindh | 12.5% | 19.5% |
| Baluchistan | 12.5% | 19.5% |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) | 12.5% | 19.5% |
| Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) | 12.5% | 17% |
| Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) | 12.5% | 17% |
| Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) | 0% | 0% |
| Federally/Provincially Administered Tribal Areas (FATA/PATA) | 0% | 0% |
You should reload more than what the listed bundle price is if you plan on purchasing a plan because of these taxes.
For example, the Jazz Weekly Mega data bundle (7 GB) costs 210 PKR. However, you would need to recharge at least 237 PKR to purchase this bundle (in most regions).
However, the following services are inclusive of the taxes:
- Out-of-bundle data usage
- Bundles (combo-hybrid/data/voice/SMS)
- Certain reload methods (such as Internet EasyLoad with Telenor Pakistan)
- Value-Added Services (VAS)
- Postpaid
On the bundle pages of the operators, the bundle prices will say that the price is inclusive of all taxes, which they technically are. But the recharges are not, which is something to keep in mind when topping-up to buy a specific bundle.
Normally, I would add another column with the price with VAT/GST when listing the bundles. However, because GST varies per region, it would not be simple to calculate and make the tables confusing.
To never be short on a reload, multiply the bundle price with * 1.20 (20%). For example, you want to buy a bundle that costs 100 PKR. To be safe, you should reload at least 20% more than the listing price. In this case, that would be 100 PKR * 1.20 = 120 PKR.
You will be charged the default tax of 12.5% WHT and 19.5% GST if you recharge your SIM card while your phone is off. This could be possible by using Telenor Pakistan's EasyLoad service, for example. This is because the tax will be charged based upon the location of the tower your device is catching signals. So make sure your phone is on when you are in GB, FATA, and PATA when recharging.
Pakistan Mobile Internet Prices, Mobile Speeds & Insights
South Asia is not known for having fast mobile internet speeds. Although the Maldives is somewhat of an exception (with an average download speed of 44 Mbps at the time of writing).
Before we talk about speeds, let's talk about prices.
Asia is known for having low mobile data rates. Neighboring country India is the cheapest country in the world to get 1 GB of data, with a price of just 0.09 USD – borderline free.
So what about in Pakistan? How expensive is mobile internet here?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Pakistan is 0.69 USD, far below the Asian average of 2.28 USD (excluding Near East). The world average is 5.03 USD.
That places Pakistan in the top 20 countries with the cheapest mobile data rates and the third place when just looking at South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and, of course, Pakistan).
But do not get too excited yet. We have to talk about speeds a bit more.
Sadly, internet speeds are not fast in Pakistan, especially in remote areas. In fact, you would be lucky if you can even catch a signal in some places.
However, you should not forget that Pakistan did not have 3G until 2014 (at that time, some countries were already working on setting up 4G networks). Until then, the country was using 2G only. You probably know that 2G is practically useless for modern data browsing.
From 2014, mobile infrastructure has massively improved. 3G reception in almost all places that had 2G before, and a lot of 4G/LTE coverage as well, significantly increasing mobile internet speeds in Pakistan, but also demand.
But how are things now? What type of speeds can you expect in Pakistan?
The average mobile download speed in Pakistan is 18 Mbps, far below the world average of 47 Mbps.
For South Asian standards, this is a typical average. Afghanistan has to deal with an average download speed of 6 Mbps, literally at the bottom of the Speedtest Global Index, so it could be much worse for Pakistan.
Of course, you can expect even faster speeds in Pakistan's more populated areas (if the networks are not overloaded – that happens every now and then).
But there is another thing to be aware of – Pakistan is mountainous, especially up north (the area where most travelers go to). Like many countries with mountains, you should not expect any reception, including 2G reception, when in mountainous areas – you will get nothing.
However, do not let any of this discourage you. All the Pakistani operators, well, at least three of them, are still working hard to expand coverage throughout the country and improve speeds.
While the introduction of 5G is somewhat around the corner, nationwide 5G still far away. However, once it has been developed, it will bring the much-needed speeds, latency, and, more importantly, bandwidth to the country that desperately needs it.
Once again, you will have good to almost great reception when staying in the populated areas, even on 4G/LTE (but you may deal with 3G more often than you are used to). Not only that, but data packages are cheap too. The competition in the country is healthy, bringing Pakistan is on the right track to a flourishing mobile market.
Currency in Pakistan
Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee with the symbol PKR (which will be used throughout this article). Prices in Pakistan are listed in Rs. For example, 25 PKR = Rs. 25. For reference, below are some exchange rates between PKR and USD (US Dollars – Rounded):
- 10 PKR = 0.35 USD
- 100 PKR – 0.35 USD
- 1000 PKR = 3.25 USD
- 10 000 PKR = 32.55 USD
- 100 000 PKR = 325.75 USD
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.
Pakistan Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Jazz, Telenor Pakistan, Zong & Ufone, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge / top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Pakistan has to offer to us.
Jazz
Jazz is the largest operator in Pakistan. Until 2016, Jazz was known as Mobilink before changing names to Jazz. Around the same time, Mobilink/Jazz decided to merge with Warid (which, at the time, was Pakistan's 4th largest mobile operator with 13 million subscribers).
For a long period, the brands Mobilink and Warid were still being used while the rebranding process was still in motion. Although the Mobilink brand ceased to exist relatively quickly, the Warid brand was still out there in 2019. Now, everything is simply Jazz.
Jazz has won the Speedtest Fastest Mobile Network two years in a row (2018 & 2019).
No Speedtest Awards was given to any Pakistani operator in 2020.
Jazz uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about Jazz:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Jazz SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharge Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* Roaming
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Jazz
Jazz has the most extensive coverage in Pakistan.
Jazz's 2G coverage is the best in the country. However, 2G is useless for modern data browsing. Jazz's 3G and 4G/LTE footprint are on top of the list, sharing the 3G position with Telenor Pakistan and the 4G/LTE position with Zong.
Jazz has no official coverage map on its site (anymore). Luckily, the Speedtest app has created one to give us insights into what to expect with Jazz.
Below is Jazz's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Jazz
You can buy a regular Jazz SIM card and the Data-Only SIM card for 500 PKR in Jazz stores (Retail Shops, Experience Centers, and Franchise Centers).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Pakistan Sheeh eSIMs from Airalo (four options):
- 1 GB/7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 3 GB/30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days
- 10 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Pakistan.
You can read about them in my Best Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Jazz
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Jazz
Jazz has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- MYOB Make Your Own Bundle (customizable combo)
- All in One Offers (combo)
- Data Packages
I will list all the prices in PKR (Pakistani Rupee).
To convert PKR to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
MYOB Make Your Own Bundle – Jazz
MYOB Make Your Own Bundle is, as the name implies, a product that allows you to customize your bundle. You can set the amount of data (without 5G NR access), minutes, and SMS you want and set the validity to 1 day, 7 days, or 30 days.
Make Your Own Bundle can be set up by dialing *303#, and everything can be customized through the USSD menu or on the Jazz World app.
After dialing the USSD code, the following steps have to be followed:
- Select the validity (1: 1 day, 2: 7 days, 3: 30 days)
- Confirm that you agree with the terms of MYOB by pressing 1
- Enter how many on-net minutes you want (maximum of 6000 on-net minutes)
- Enter how many off-net minutes you want (maximum of 1000 off-net minutes)
- Select how much data you want (0: 0MB, 1: 3000 MB, 2: 6000 MB, 3: 9000 MB, 4: 12 000 MB, 5: 15 000 MB)
- Enter how many local SMS you want (maximum of 10 000 SMS)
- Review your entries and review the bundle's price.
- If everything is to satisfaction, press 1 to confirm your bundle
- You have successfully set up MYOB
Depending on the validity of your bundle, you have different USSD codes to check your bundle's balance:
- 1-day validity: *303*1#
- 7-day validity: *303*7#
- 30-day validity: *303*30#
MYOB does not auto-renew. When MYOB expires, you have to set up a new bundle or choose another Jazz bundle.
All In One Offers – Jazz
The All In One Offers are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), social media data, minutes, and SMS.
The following All In One Offers are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 PKR | Give-A-Bundle | 1 GB | 100 minutes | N/A | N/A | 3 days | *919# |
| 60 PKR | 3 Day-Max Offer | 1 GB | 1000 minutes | 10 minutes | 1000 SMS | 3 days | *631# |
| 100 PKR | Voice Infinity Offer | N/A | 120 minutes | 20 minutes | N/A | 180 days | *710# |
| 145 PKR | Super Woman Bundle | 12 GB | Unlimited 1 | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *117*14# |
| 174 PKR | Raabta Plus | 10 GB 2 | 1000 minutes | 1000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *7678# |
| 260 PKR | Weekly All Network | 3 GB | 1000 minutes | 90 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *700# |
| 345 PKR | Weekly Super Plus | 10 GB | 5000 minutes | 120 minutes | 5000 SMS | 7 days | *505# |
| 400 PKR | Weekly Super Max | 30 GB | 6000 minutes | 150 minutes | 6000 minutes | 7 days | *506# |
| 868 PKR | Monthly Super Duper | 12 GB | 3000 minutes | 300 minutes | 3000 SMS | 30 days | Dial 3111 > 2 > 6 |
| 1215 PKR | Monthly Max | 40 GB | 3000 minutes | 500 minutes | 3000 SMS | 30 days | *708# |
| 1218 PKR | Aala (10 PM – 7 PM) | 80 GB 2 | 2000 minutes | Shared with on-net minutes | 2000 SMS | 30 days | *7335# |
| 1305 PKR | Aala Offer | 80 GB | 2000 minutes | Shared with on-net minutes | 2000 SMS | 30 days | *7334# |
1 for between 8:00 – 18:00
2 for between 22:00 – 19:00
Prepaid – Jazz
The Prepaid plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
You can purchase the following Prepaid plans:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Data | App(s) | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.3 PKR | Super Data Offer | 5 GB (12 AM – 9 AM) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *577# |
| 12 PKR | Punjab Daily Offer | 250 MB 1 | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | 1000 SMS | 1 day | *6000# |
| 17 PKR | Janoobi Punjab Super Data Offer | 5 GB (23:00 – 9:00) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *742# |
| 17 PKR | Sindh Super Data Offer | 5000 MB (23:00 – 9:00) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *773# |
| 21 PKR | Sindh Daily Offer | 250 MB 1 | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | 1500 SMS | 1 day | *522# |
| 21 PKR | KP Daily Offer | 250 MB 1 | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | 1500 SMS | 1 day | *291# |
| 21 PKR | Karachi Daily Offer | 250 MB 1 | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | 1500 SMS | Until midnight | *400*2# |
| 30 PKR | WhatsApp Bundle | N/A | 250 MB | N/A | N/A | 1500 SMS | 7 days | *101*1*07# | |
| 52 PKR | Facebook &WhatsApp | N/A | 4 GB | BiP, Facebook, IMO & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *499# |
| 69 PKR | Karachi Monthly Social Offer | N/A | 5 GB | Facebook & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *532# |
| 78 PKR | SIM Offer | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | 600 SMS | 30 minutes | 600 SMS | 7 days | *476# |
| 104 PKR | Lajawab Haftawar Offer | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | 3000 minutes | 30 minutes | 3000 SMS | 7 days | *565# |
| 130 PKR | Sargodha Weekly Offer | 3000 MB | N/A | N/A | 3000 minutes | 30 minutes | 3000 SMS | 7 days | *627# |
| 156 PKR | Haftawar Data Offer | 5 GB | Shared with data allowance | 500 minutes | 50 minutes | N/A | 7 days | *545# | |
| 139 PKR | Taxila Offer | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *596# |
| 150 PKR | Haftawaar All Rounder Offer | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | 1000 minutes | 50 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *747# |
| 173 PKR | & Jhelum Haftawar Offer | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | 100 minutes | Shared with on-net minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *307# |
| 200 PKR | Harripur & Nowshere Offer | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | 50 minutes | N/A | 7 days | *598# |
| 260 PKR | Social Plus | 10 GB | Shared with data allowance | 300 minutes | 50 minutes | 300 SMS | 30 days | *617# | |
| 278 PKR | Haftawaar Offer | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | 1000 minutes | 100 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *406# |
| 319 PKR | Shahadkot Monthly Offer | 2 GB | N/A | N/A | 2000 minutes | 200 minutes | 4000 SMS | 30 days | *873# |
| 350 PKR | DG Khan Monthly Offer | 5000 MB | N/A | N/A | 2000 minutes | 200 minutes | 4000 SMS | 30 days | *705# |
| 521 PKR | Super Mahana Offer | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes | 150 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days | *529# |
1 for between 00:00 – 9:00
2 for between 23:00 – 9:00
Roaming with Jazz
Jazz does not have any regular plans that include free international roaming (IR). However, they do have attractive roaming packages. Check out this guide for more information about roaming with Jazz.
APN/Internet Settings – Jazz
In most cases, your phone will automatically retrieve the correct Jazz APN settings. However, if that is not the case, you can get the internet settings by dialing *443# and selecting option 5 or dialing *444*6*5#.
If the aforementioned methods do not work, you have to add the following APN settings manually:
- Name: Jazz
- APN: jazzconnect.mobilinkworld.com
Notes: APN “connect.mobilinkworld.com” is for postpaid customers only. Do not add or change anything else not mentioned above.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Telenor Pakistan
Telenor Pakistan, just Telenor, is the second-largest provider in Pakistan.
Telenor itself is active in Scandinavia (Norway (origin), Denmark, Sweden, Finland (as DNA), and a few countries in Asia, including Bangladesh (as Grameenphone), Malaysia (as Digi), Myanmar & Thailand (as dtac).
Telenor uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about Telenor:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Telenor SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharge Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Telenor Pakistan
Telenor has extensive coverage in Pakistan.
Telenor is known for having the best 3G coverage together with Jazz in the country. Telenor's 4G/LTE footprint is extensive too, but (slightly) lacks behind the ones of Jazz and Zong.
Telenor used to have a (3G) coverage map on its site. However, that was mysteriously removed, so I will show the Speedtest app's one instead.
Below is Telenor's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
You can check if the area you are in is covered by 3G by dialing *7799#.
SIM Card Price – Telenor Pakistan
You can get a Telenor SIM card for 200 PKR in Telenor stores or a Telenor Self Service Booth (TSSB).
Although it is possible to order a SIM card online, I discourage you from doing so. Only premium numbers can be selected when buying a SIM card online, priced at 1200 PKR and 5200 PKR. Moreover, delivery can take up to 72 hours.
It will be more convenient and faster to find a Telenor store or a TBBS instead of ordering an expensive SIM card online.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get eSIMs from Holafly (five option):
6 GB/15 days- Unlimited/5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/7 days
- Unlimited/10 days
- Unlimited/15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/20 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Pakistan.
You can read about them in my Best Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Telenor Pakistan
You can get Telenor recharge cards, in values between 100 PKR and 1000 PKR, in Telenor stores, Telenor Self Service Booths, and at many other stores, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and mobile shops.
You can redeem your Telenor recharge card by dialing *555*VoucherCode#. The same can be done by calling 555 and following the instructions.
For example, if your voucher vode is 123456, you would dial *555*123456#.
To check your overall balance, dial *444# (costing 0.24 PKR). The same can be done by calling 555 and selecting option 2.
You can dial select USSD codes for specific balance checks, such as your data, SMS, and minute allowance. Do note that all these shortcodes cost 0.24 PKR per request:
- Data: *200# & *999#
- Minutes: *222#
- SMS: *111#
- Everything (else): *123#
You can check your balances for free by using the My Telenor App (Android & iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Telenor Pakistan
Telenor has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Offers. It includes data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
I will list all the prices in PKR (Pakistani Rupee).
To convert PKR to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 PKR | Monthly Snapchat Package | N/A | 2000 MB | Snapchat | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *915# |
| 18 PKR | Raat Din Offer | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 12 hours (0:00 – 12:00) | *150# |
| 44 PKR | 4G 3 Day Bundle | 1000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 3 days | *32# |
| 55 PKR | 4G Weekly Internet Max | 30 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days (00:00 – 9:00) | *19# |
| 60 PKR | Monthly Social Pack | N/A | 2500 MB | Facebook & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *911# |
| 60 PKR | Weekly 6 to 6 Package | 5000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days (6:00 – 18:00) | |
| 60 PKR | PUBGM Monthly Offer | 2 GB | 100 MB | PUBG Mobile | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *345*57# |
| 85 PKR | Monthly Social Pack Plus | N/A | 4000 MB | Facebook & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | 1000 SMS | 30 days | *660# |
| 104 PKR | Weekly Social Pack | N/A | 5000 MB | Facebook & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *345*53# |
| 120 PKR | 4G Weekly Super | 4000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *288# |
| 130 PKR | Monthly Social Extreme | N/A | 10 000 MB | Facebook & WhatsApp | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *345*61# | |
| 190 PKR | 4G Monthly Lite | 4 GB 2 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *301# |
| 200 PKR | 4G Weekly Ultra | 8 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 100 minutes | N/A | 7 days | *336# |
| 235 PKR | Weekly EasyCard Mega | 8000 MB | N/A | N/A | 2000 minutes (+PCTL) | 85 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | *001# |
| 260 PKR | Mega Plus Weekly EasyCard | 16 GB | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes + PTCL | 100 minutes | 2500 SMS | 7 days | *003# |
| 350 PKR | 4G Monthly Super | 12 000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *345*169# |
| 370 PKR | 4G Monthly Starter Bundle | 8 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *302# |
| 700 PKR | 4G Monthly Ultra Plus | 50 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *303# |
APN/Internet Settings – Telenor Pakistan
In most cases, your phone will automatically retrieve the correct Telenor Pakistan APN settings. However, if that is not the case, you can get the internet settings by texting internet to 131.
If the aforementioned methods do not work, you have to add the following APN settings manually:
- Name: Telenor
- APN: internet
- Username: Telenor
- Password: Telenor
Note: Do not add or change anything else not mentioned above.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Zong
Zong, officially known as CMPak or China Mobile Pakistan, is the third-largest operator in Pakistan.
China Mobile managed to enter the Pakistani mobile market by buying Millicom's shares in Paktel. Paktel was rebranded to China Mobile Pakistan. Within almost a year, that name changed to Zong.
Zong uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2100 MHz (Band 1)
This is what you will learn about Zong:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Zong SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharge Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Zong
Zong has extensive coverage in Pakistan. They also have the best 4G/LTE coverage in the country, together with Jazz.
When China Mobile bought Paktel, they were already introducing 4G/LTE in China. So China Mobile decided to bring their 4G/LTE expertise immediately to Pakistan. The other operators were still working on building and improving their 2G and 3G networks.
In fact, Zong had a 2-year head start with 4G/LTE than Jazz and Telenor Pakistan, who were then the more established operators. Now, they have the best 4G/LTE availability in the country, which is also recognized by OpenSignal in its Pakistan Mobile Network Experience Report of 2021.
It is worth checking out that report, as it has some interesting findings. But honestly, I was, and still am, surprised with Zong's performance.
What, however, does not impress me is Zong's official coverage map. It is practically useless for checking its nationwide coverage. And the city/town search function does not work either.
Below is Zong's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Zong's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Zong
Zong SIM cards are available for 200 PKR in Zong Service Centers. New Zong SIM cards include the New SIM Offer, featuring 2 GB of data, 1 GB for WhatsApp, 1 GB for Facebook, and 1000 on-net minutes – all valid for 7 days. You can, however, not use your data allowance between 19:00 and 23:59.
Note: the New SIM offer only applies to “regular” Zong SIM cards, not for Mobile Broadband (MBB) nor Internet SIM (data-only) cards.
On top of the New SIM Offer, you can get bonus credit depending on how much you recharge within seven days of acquiring the SIM card.
- Recharge between 50 PKR and 99.99 PKR: 25 PKR credit bonus
- Recharge between 100 PKR and 499.99 PKR: 50 PKR credit bonus
- Recharge of 500 PKR or more: 100 PKR credit bonus
You can book a phone number of liking on the Book Your Number page. A booked number can be collected at any Zong Service Center, as long as it is done within three days.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Pakistan Sheeh eSIMs from Airalo (four options):
- 1 GB/7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 3 GB/30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days
- 10 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Pakistan.
You can read about them in my Best Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Zong
Zong recharge cards are available in Zong Service Centers and many other retailers, such as grocery stores, corner shops, news stands, and gas stations. They can be obtained in values of 100 PKR, 300 PKR, 500 PKR, and 1000 PKR. You can also recharge online (50 PKR – 20 000 PKR).
To redeem your recharge voucher, dial *101*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *101*123456#.
Zong has a menu, which can be access through *310#. This menu allows you to top-up, check your balance, and and purchase plans. However, accessing the menu costs 0.24 PKR. You can also quickly check your balance by dialing *222#.
However, it is not know whether you will be charged 0.24 PKR for that method as well. (let me know if you know).
You can also use the Zong App (Android & iOS) to check your balance for free.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Zong
Zong has 11 data-featured prepaid plans:
- Hot Bundles (combo)
- All In One Bundles (combo)
- Call Bundles (combo – only those with data)
- SMS Bundles (combo – only those with data)
- Mini Bundles (combo – only those with data)
- Social Bundles (combo – only those with data)
- Stay-At-Home Bundles (data)
- App Exclusive Offers (combo – through app only)
- Data Bundles (data)
- Internet SIM Packages (data for Internet SIM (data-only SIM))
- Mobile Broadband (MBB) Bundles (data for MBB devices)
All bundles can be purchased by dialing *310# or on the Zong app.
I will list all the prices in PKR (Pakistani Rupee).
To convert PKR to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Hot Bundles – Zong
The Hot Bundles are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Hot Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99 PKR | Weekly Social Offer | 5 GB | 200 minutes | 20 minutes | 200 SMS | 7 days |
| 150 PKR | Weekly Mega Data Offer | 100 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 350 PKR | Weekly HLO | 12 GB | Unlimited | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 440 PKR | Weekly Pro | 40 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 460 PKR | Weekly Pro Plus | 60 GB | 6000 minutes | 600 minutes | 6000 SMS | 7 days |
| 800 PKR | Monthly Super Card | 12 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 1300 PKR | Monthly Pro | 40 GB | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1400 PKR | Monthly Digital Max Offer | 100 GB | 10 000 minutes | 1000 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1400 PKR | Monthly Pro Plus | 60 GB | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
All In One Bundles – Zong
The All In One Bundles are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes, and SMS.
The following All In One Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 PKR | Weekly All-In-1 Weekly | 4 GB | 5000 minutes | 60 minutes | 5000 SMS | 7 days |
| 310 PKR | Super Weekly Plus | 8 GB | Unlimited | 60 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 350 PKR | Weekly HLO | 12 GB | Unlimited | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 420 PKR | Weekly Premium | 30 GB | Unlimited | 180 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 440 PKR | Weekly Pro | 40 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 460 PKR | Weekly Pro Plus | 60 GB | 600 minutes | 600 minutes | 6000 SMS | 7 days |
| 500 PKR | Star Pre-Load Monthly Power Pack SIM 500 | 2.5 GB | 1000 minutes | 50 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
| 575 PKR | Super Star Offer | 8 GB | 3000 minutes | 500 minutes | 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 800 PKR | Monthly Super Card | 12 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 990 PKR | Monthly Supreme | 20 GB | 5000 minutes | 350 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1000 PKR | Gold Pre-Load 3 Months Power Pack SIM 1500 | 8 GB | 8000 minutes | 200 minutes | 3000 SMS | 90 days |
| 1299 PKR | Monthly Super Offer | 30 GB | 5000 minutes | 450 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1300 PKR | Monthly Pro | 40 GB | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1400 PKR | Monthly Digital Max Offer | 100 GB | 10 000 minutes | 1000 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1400 PKR | Monthly Pro Plus | 60 GB | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 2000 PKR | Monthly Family Bundle | 40 GB 1 | 15 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 15 000 SMS | 30 days |
1 + 20 GB for Facebook & WhatsApp
Call Bundles – Zong
The Call Bundles are plans focused on calls. However, a few Call Bundles include data (without 5G NR access), and minutes & SMS.
Only the bundles with a data allowance will be mentioned below.
You can get one of the following Call Bundles:
| Price | Bundle | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 PKR | Weekly Shandaar Haftawaar Offer | 500 MB | 500 minutes | 40 minutes | 500 SMS | 7 days |
| 305 PKR | Monthly Shandaar Mahana Offer | 1 GB | 1000 minutes | 100 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
For the remaining Call Bundles without a data allowance, check out the Call Bundles page.
SMS Bundles – Zong
The SMS Bundles are plans focused on SMS. However, some SMS Bundles include data (without 5G NR access) and WhatsApp data.
Only the bundles with a data allowance will be mentioned below.
You can get one of the following SMS Bundles:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 PKR | Daily SMS + WhatsApp Bundle | 1 MB | 30 MB | 500 SMS | 1 day | |
| 32 PKR | Weekly SMS + WhatsApp Bundle | N/A | 200 MB | 1300 SMS | 7 days | |
| 75 PKR | Monthly SMS + WhatsApp Bundle | N/A | 30 MB/day | 500 SMS/day | 30 days |
For the remaining SMS Bundles without a data allowance, check out the SMS Bundles page.
Mini Bundles – Zong
Mini Bundles are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Mini Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 PKR | 2 Hour Non Stop Offer | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | N/A | 2 hours |
| 17 PKR | Shaandar Daily Offer | 50 MB | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | 800 SMS | 1 day |
| 23 PKR | Daily Social Offer | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day |
| 80 PKR | 3 Day Bundle | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | 1000 minutes | N/A | N/A | 3 days |
Social Bundles are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), social data (TikTok, Youtube & WhatsApp) minutes & SMS.
The following Social Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 PKR | Weekly TikTok Offer | N/A | 3 GB | TikTok | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 100 PKR | Monthly WhatsApp | N/A | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | |
| 90 PKR | IMO Offer | 2.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 150 PKR | Monthly Social Mini | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 169 PKR | Weekly Video | N/A | 8 GB | TikTok & YouTube | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 220 PKR | Monthly WhatsApp Plus Offer | N/A | 5 GB | WhatsApp +(IMO) | 200 minutes | 30 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days |
| 300 PKR | Monthly Social | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | 250 minutes | 50 minutes | 250 SMS | 30 days |
Stay-At-Home Bundles – Zong
Stay-At-Home Bundles are data (without 5G NR access) plans.
The following Stay-At-Home Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 PKR | Daily GNO | 2.5 GB | 1 day |
| 25 PKR | Daily DTO | 1.5 GB | 1 day |
| 150 PKR | Mega Data Offer | 100 GB | 7 days |
| 170 PKR | Stay At Home Bundle | 10 GB | 7 days |
App Exclusive Offers – Zong
The App Exclusive Offers are offers that can only be redeemed or activated through the Zong App. An App Exclusive Offer may be triggered by reaching a reload threshold or purchasing the Offer on the Zong App.
Currently, these App Exclusive Offers are available:
| Price/Required Reload | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | All-Net Minutes | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free | 6 GB on First Time App Registration | 200 MB/day (6 GB) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 300 PKR | Super Weekly Premium Bundle | 15 GB | 15 GB | YouTube & TikTok | 100 minutes | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 1000 PKR | Supreme Offer | 10 000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes | 300 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 3500 PKR | 150 GB Exclusive Prepaid MBB Offer | 150 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
Data Bundles – Zong
The Data Bundles are data plans (without 5G NR access) and social data (for Facebook, Google Duo, YouTube, TikTok, WhatsApp & IMO).
The following Data Bundles can be purchased:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App(s) | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PKR | Monthly Google Maps Offer | N/A | 500 MB | Google Maps | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 2 PKR | 1 Hour YouTube | N/A | Unlimited | YouTube | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day |
| 23 PKR | Daily Basic | 100 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day |
| 49 PKR | Daily Data Max | 500 MB | 500 MB | YouTube | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day |
| 99 PKR | Weekly Haftawar Voice Offer | 1 GB | 20 GB | 1000 minutes | Shared with on-net minutes allowance | N/A | 7 days | |
| 110 PKR | Gilgit Baltisan Offer | N/A | 4 GB | 1000 minutes | 40 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | |
| 250 PKR | Weekly Super Offer | 4 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 299 PKR | Monthly 5 GB | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 300 PKR | Monthly Social | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | 250 minutes | 50 minutes | 250 SMS | 30 days |
| 330 PKR | 5 GB Monthly On Internet SIM | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 400 PKR | Super Weekly Max | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes | 100 minutes | 500 SMS | 7 days |
| 440 PKR | Weekly Pro | 40 GB | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 499 PKR | Monthly Maheena Bhar Offer | 10 GB | 20 GB | 2000 minutes | Shared with on-net minutes allowance | N/A | 30 days | |
| 700 PKR | Monthly 20 GB | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 785 PKR | Internet SIM 4 GB + 5 GB | 9 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 899 PKR | Monthly 40 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | |
| 1250 PKR | Monthly Internet SIM (12 GB + 15 GB) | 27 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 1300 PKR | Monthly Pro | 40 GB | N/A | N/A | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 1400 PKR | Monthly Pro Plus | 60 GB | N/A | N/A | 10 000 minutes | 600 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days |
| 2100 PKR | Internet SIM 65 GB | 65 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 3500 PKR | Monthly 160 GB MBB Exclusive Offer | 160 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
Internet SIM Packages – Zong
The Internet SIM Packages are data (without 5G NR access) bundles exclusively for the Internet SIM (data-only SIM card).
You can get any of the following Internet SIM Packages:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 230 PKR | Internet SIM GNO | 1 GB 3 | As per base bundle |
| 330 PKR | 5 GB Monthly On Internet SIM | 5 GB | 30 days |
| 350 PKR | Super Weekly Plus On Internet SIM | 8 GB | 7 days |
| 450 PKR | Super Weekly Max on Internet SIM | 25 GB | 7 days |
| 550 PKR | Internet SIM DTO | 1 GB | 1 day |
| 575 PKR | 20 GB Monthly Internet SIM | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 785 PKR | Internet 5 GB SIM/3 months | 5 GB | 90 days |
| 940 PKR | Monthly 40 GB Internet SIM | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 1100 PKR | Internet SIM 3 GB/3 month | 3 GB/month (9 GB) | 180 days |
| 1300 PKR | Internet SIM 15 GB/3 months | 15 GB | 90 days |
| 2700 PKR | Internet SIM New Tariff 12 GB/3 Month | 12 GB/month (36 GB) | 90 days |
| 3250 PKR | Prepaid Internet SIM Addons – (Monthly) 175 GB | 175 GB | 30 days |
| 5750 PKR | Internet SIM 65 GB/ 3 months | 65 GB | 90 days |
| 12 500 PKR | Internet SIM 105 GB/ 6 months | 105 GB 1 | 180 days |
| 23 000 PKR | Internet SIM 105 GB / 12 months | 105 GB 1 | 365 days |
1 105 GB anytime data, 30 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
2 175 GB anytime data, 100 GB for between 1:00 – 9:00
3 for between 1:00 – 9:00
Mobile Broadband (MBB) Bundles – Zong
The Mobile Broadband (MBB) Bundles are data (without 5G NR access) bundles exclusively for those with a Zong MBB device.
| Price | Bundle | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450 PKR | Monthly Prepaid MBB Add-On 5 GB | 5 GB | As per base bundle |
| 999 PKR | Monthly MBB Monthly 30 GB Offer | 30 GB | 30 days |
| 2100 PKR | MBB 65GB | 65 GB | 30 days |
| 2100 PKR | Mobile Broadband Reactivation Offer | 35 GB | 30 days |
| 2600 PKR | Prepaid MBB Monthly 80 GB | 80 GB 1 | 30 days |
| 3300 PKR | Prepaid MBB Monthly 100 GB | 100 GB 2 | 30 days |
| 5750 PKR | Prepaid MBB 3 Months Prepaid MBB (65 GB/Month) | 65 GB/month (180 GB) | 90 days |
| 12 500 PKR | MBB Data Bundle 75GB + 30GB of 6 Months | 75 GB/month (450 GB) 3 | 180 days |
| 23 000 PKR | 12 Months Prepaid MBB (75 GB/Month) | 75 GB/month (450 GB) 3 | 360 days |
1 80 GB anytime data, 80 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
2 100 GB anytime data, 100 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
3 + 3 GB
APN/Internet Settings – Zong
- Name: Internet
- APN: zonginternet
Note: Do not add or change anything else not mentioned above.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Ufone
Ufone is the smallest operator in Pakistan. They are also, in most cases, the cheapest operator in the country.
Ufone uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about Ufone:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Ufone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharge Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* Roaming
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Ufone
Ufone has decent coverage in Pakistan. However, they have the worst coverage of the big four operators.
When putting the four operators' coverage maps next to each other, you will see fewer LTE dots with Ufone than the other operators. For some reason, it took Ufone until 2019 to enable 4G/LTE (for comparison, Zong started deploying 4G/LTE in 2014).
Not only is network reception significantly weaker with Ufone than with the other Pakistani operators, but speeds are notably slower (the slowest in the country).
Ufone does have an official coverage map on its site. However, they decided to go with the dots on Google Maps route, which is, personally speaking, an awful way of showcasing your coverage. However, it is still better than having no official map at all (looking at you, Jazz & Telenor Pakistan).
Below is Ufone's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Ufone's official coverage map.
You can check if the area you are in is covered by 3G or 4G/LTE quickly with USSD codes. To check 3G availability, dial *3344#. To check if 4G/LTE is available, dial *4#.
SIM Card Price – Ufone
You can purchase a Ufone SIM card starting from 200 PKR, depending on the SIM card you choose, in Ufone offices or stores. They can also be ordered online with free delivery (for some SIM cards).
* Dial *1000# to activate the offer
You can also book Golden and Platinum Numbers, which can be remembered easier, and pick them up at the nearest Ufone store. Golden Numbers have a surcharge of 50 PKR (or 0 PKR during). Platinum Numbers have a surcharge of 1500 PKR (or 499 PKR during promotions).
Ufone has four different starter SIM cards to choose from, which are:
- New SIM Offer (200 PKR)
- Classic Offer (250 PKR)
- Super Card Double Offer (570 PKR)
- Internet SIM (200 PKR)
Below is an overview of the perks each starter SIM card includes:
| Price | SIM Card | Data | WhatsApp Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Perks Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 PKR | New SIM Offer | 2000 MB | Unlimited (90 days) | 500 minutes | 25 minutes | 500 SMS | 5 days |
| 200 PKR | Internet SIM | 1000 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 250 PKR | Classic Offer | N/A | Unlimited * | N/A | N/A | N/A | 90 days |
| 570 PKR | Super Card Double Offer | 3400 MB | N/A | 2000 minutes | 300 minutes | 8000 SMS | 30 days |
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get eSIMs from Holafly (five option):
6 GB/15 days- Unlimited/5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/7 days
- Unlimited/10 days
- Unlimited/15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/20 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Pakistan.
You can read about them in my Best Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Ufone
Ufone recharge cards, in denominations of 100 PKR, 250 PKR, 500 PKR, and 1000 PKR, are available in Ufone offices and stores. You can also get them from other retailers, such as mobile shops, electronic shops, grocery stores, and convenience stores. You can also recharge online (50 PKR – 10 000 PKR).
To activate you recharge card, dial *123*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *123*123456#.
Dial *124# to check your balance.
You will most likely be charged 0.24 PKR for checking your balance through that shortcode, like with the other operators, but I cannot confirm this. Let me know.
You can also use the My Ufone app to activate recharge cards and check your balance (Android & iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Ufone
Ufone has six data-featured prepaid plans:
- Internet Offers (combo)
- All In One Offers (combo)
- Ufone Super Card Family (combo)
- iPhone Buckets (data for iPhones)
- Internet SIM Bundles (data for data-only SIM card)
I will list all the prices in PKR (Pakistani Rupee).
To convert PKR to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Internet Offers – Ufone
The Internet Offers are combo plans (without 5G NR access) with data, minutes & SMS.
The following Internet Offers are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Data | App | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 PKR | Unlimited Instagram & Threads Offer | N/A | 500 MB | Instagram & Threads | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *9898# |
| 5 PKR | Unlimited WhatsApp | N/A | 500 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *987# |
| 7 PKR | Best Morning Offer | 2 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day (9:00 – 12:00) | *4200# |
| 12 PKR | Daily Free Fire Offer | 250 MB | 500 MB | Freefire | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *8080# |
| 12 PKR | Daily PUBGM Offer | 250 MB | 500 MB | PUBG Mobile | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *8080# |
| 15.65 PKR | Daily Off Peak Plus | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day (6:00 – 18:00) | *10# | |
| 16.25 PKR | Daily Light | 40 MB | 1 GB | Facebook, Line, Twitter, WhatsApp & YouTube | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *2256# |
| 20 PKR | Mega Internet | 2 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 night (24:00 – 12:00) | *550# |
| 50 PKR | Monthly Snapchat Offer | N/A | 6 GB | Snapchat | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *9694# |
| 60 PKR | Weekly Free Fire | 1 GB | 4 GB | Freefire | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *8080# |
| 60 PKR | Weekly PUBG | 1 GB | 4 GB | PUBG Mobile | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *8080# |
| 70 PKR | Ufone TikTok Offer | N/A | 4 GB | TikTok | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *2345# |
| 70 PKR | Weekly SnackVideo Offer | N/A | 4 GB | Snack Video | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *265# |
| 90 PKR | Monthly WhatsApp Offer | N/A | 6 GB | Snapchat | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *987# |
| 100 PKR | Monthly Freefire | N/A | 10 GB | Freefire | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *8080# |
| 100 PKR | Monthly PUBG | N/A | 10 GB | PUBG Mobile | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *8080# |
| 120 PKR | YouTube Offer | N/A | 5 GB | YouTube | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *5883# |
| 120 PKR | Monthly Facebook Offer | N/A | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *987# | |
| 120 PKR | Internet Max Offer | 25 GB 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *2570# |
| 130 PKR | Social Champion Offer | N/A | 4 GB | Facebook, Instagram, Threads & Snapchat | 150 minutes | 20 minutes | 150 minutes | 30 days | *1818# |
| 150 PKR | Weekly Video Offer | N/A | 6 GB | Snack Video, TikTok & YouTube | 200 minutes | 25 minutes | 200 SMS | 7 days | *4383# |
| 150 PKR | Weekly Social Offer | N/A | 6 GB | Facebook, Snapchat & WhatsApp | 200 minutes | 25 minutes | 200 SMS | 7 days | *6660# |
| 160 PKR | Super Internet | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *220# |
| 245 PKR | Social Hero Offer | N/A | 12 GB | Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Snapchat & WhatsApp | 300 minutes | 50 minutes | 300 SMS | 30 days | *4440# |
| 275 PKR | UPOWER Internet | 16 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *270# |
| 260 PKR | Weekly Internet Plus | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *260# |
| 350 PKR | Weekly Max Offer | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | N/A |
| 375 PKR | Sab Se Bari Offer | 25 GB | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes | 100 minutes | N/A | 7 days | *7777# |
| 399 PKR | Sab Se Bari Plus Offer | 40 GB | N/A | N/A | 5000 minutes | 250 minutes | 5000 SMS | 7 days | N/A |
| 430 PKR | Weekly Digital Offer | 60 GB | N/A | N/A | 7000 minutes | 600 minutes | 7000 SMS | 30 days | *7777# |
| 549 PKR | Super Internet Plus | 18 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *290# |
| 750 PKR | Monthly Heavy | 30 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *310# |
* 3 GB anytime data, 3 GB for between 1:00 – 8:00
You are allowed to purchase multiple monthly bundles at the same time (the same ones or combining ones). This does not apply to the daily, 3-day, and weekly bundles.
All In One Offers – Ufone
The All In One Offers are combo plans (without 5G NR access) with data, minutes & SMS.
You can get one of the following All In One Offers:
| Price | Offer | Data | Facebook Data | On-Net Minutes (+PTCL) | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code | Auto-Renews? | Unsubscribe Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.17 PKR | Power Hour | 60 MB | N/A | 60 minutes* | N/A | 60 SMS | 1 hour | *99# | No | N/A |
| 18 PKR | Daily Pakistan Offer | 10 MB | N/A | 100 minutes | N/A | N/A | 1 day | *888# | Yes | *8880# |
| 100 PKR | Weekly Pakistan Offer | 100 MB | N/A | 700 minutes | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *8888# | Yes | *8880# |
| 120 PKR | Asli Chappar Phaar Offer | 1000 MB | N/A | 100 minutes (no PTCL) | N/A | 100 SMS | 7 days | *5050# | No | N/A |
| 418 PKR | Monthly Pakistan Offer | 400 MB | N/A | 4000 minutes | N/A | N/A | 30 days | *8888# | Yes | *8880# |
* On-net minutes can also be used to call Vfone (PTCL) numbers.
Super Card Family – Ufone
Super Card Family Packages are combo plans (without 5G NR access) with data, minutes & SMS.
The following Ufone Super Card Family Packages are available:
| Price | Offer | Data | Social Data | On-Net Minutes (+PTCL) | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 160 PKR | Super Internet | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days | *220# |
| 420 PKR | Mini Super Card | 3 GB | 1 GB 1 | 1000 minutes | 100 minutes | 3500 SMS | 15 days | *230# |
| 799 PKR | Super Card Max | 10 GB | N/A | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | 350 minutes | 4500 SMS | 30 days | *629# |
| 899 PKR | Super Card 899 | 20 GB | N/A | 6000 minutes | 450 minutes | 6000 SMS | 30 days | *899# |
| 1199 PKR | Super Card Gold | 30 GB | N/A | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | 600 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days | *900# |
| 1400 PKR | Digital Grand Offer | 100 GB | N/A | 10 000 minutes | 1000 minutes | 10 000 SMS | 30 days | *900# |
iPhone Buckets – Ufone
The iPhone Buckets are data plans (without 5G NR access) with reduced speeds (up to 3 Mbps) specifically for iPhone users.
You can get one of the following iPhone Buckets:
| Price | Data | Speeds | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 PKR | 3 GB | 3 Mbps | 30 days |
| 1800 PKR | 5 GB | 3 Mbps | 30 days |
Honestly, I have no idea why these bundles exist because iPhone users can get any other bundle mentioned so far, which are all far cheaper than the iPhone Buckets and do not have to deal with speed reductions.
You can activate multiple Content Bundles simultaneously (the same ones or combining different ones).
Internet SIM Bundles – Ufone
The Internet SIM Bundles are data bundles (without 5G NR access) exclusively for Ufone's Internet SIM (data-only SIM).
You can get one of the following Internet SIM Bundles:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Media Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 PKR | Super Internet | 1.2 GB | N/A | 7 day |
| 250 PKR | Monthly Light | 1 GB | 2 GB | 30 days |
| 500 PKR | Monthly Heavy | 3 GB | 2 GB | 30 days |
| 1000 PKR | Monthly Max | 10 GB | 2 GB | 30 days |
Roaming with Ufone
Ufone does not have any regular plans that include free international roaming (IR). However, they do have attractive roaming packages. Check out this guide for more information about roaming with Ufone.
APN/Internet Settings – Ufone
- Name: Ufone
- APN: ufone.ptinternet
Note: Do not add or change anything else not mentioned above.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Pakistan
Getting a SIM card from either Jazz or Zong would do you well when considering a Pakistani SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Card in Other Asian Countries
Visiting other countries in Asia? Check out my region-specific SIM card buying guides:
- Central Asia
- East Asia
- (Middle East)
- South Asia
- Southeast Asia (revamped in September 2022)
- West Asia
Or check out my SIM card buying guides for individual Asian countries:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).
Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).
Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience?
Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
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