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Pakistan: 4 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

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 (0.90 USD) to 570 PKR (2.50 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 (0.55 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.

Buying a SIM Card in Pakistan Guide (logos of Jazz, Telenor, Zong & Ufone)

Original publication: 26th of February 2020. Last updated: 14th of March 2023.

Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

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: 300 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.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

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Best eSIM in Pakistan

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM (to prepaid customers) in Pakistan yet.

However, you can get travel eSIMs from Airalo and Holafly.

Airalo has the Sheesh eSIMs:

Pakistan Sheesh eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have four options:

  1. Pakistan/Sheesh 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Pakistan/Sheesh 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. Pakistan/Sheesh 5 GB eSIM for 30 days
  4. Pakistan/Sheesh 10 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

The Airalo links above will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

For an in-depth analysis of the Pakistan Sheesh eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide.

You can also get Pakistan eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Asian countries.

Asia Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

For an in-depth analysis of the SimCorner Pakistan eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide.

Finally, You can also get Pakistan eSIMs from Holafly:

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for Pakistan (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

With SimCorner, you can use the same code (PHONETRAVELWIZ) for extra savings, although the links above will do the same automatically.

For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Pakistan eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide.

With these eSIMs, you can skip Pakistan's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Pakistan!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best Pakistan eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Pakistan, including ones not mentioned above.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Pakistan

If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Pakistan, I recommend going with SimCorner's Pakistan SIM cards. Consider SimCorner's Asia SIM cards to be used in Pakistan and 20+ countries, including neighboring India, Oman, Nepal.

You have the following two Pakistan Travel SIM cards:

You have these two Asia SIM cards:

Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 8 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner
Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 15 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner

The SimCorner Asia SIM cards can be used in Pakistan and the following other countries:

  • Azerbaijan 2
  • Bahrain 1
  • Bangladesh
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Georgia
  • Guam 1
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Jordan 1
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait 1
  • Kyrgyzstan 2
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Mongolia 1
  • Myanmar (Burma)
  • Nepal
  • Oman 1
  • Pakistan
  • Philippines
  • Qatar 1
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Sri Lanka
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand 2, 3
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

1 for the 8 day version only
2 for the 15 days version only
3 only 500 MB in Thailand – better get the SimCorner Thailand Travel SIM Cards instead

You can also get the SimCorner International Travel SIM card (new: also available as an eSIM) 6 GB of data valid for 15 days to be used in Pakistan and 100+ countries, including most of the ones mentioned above (Asia) and in the Americas, Europe & Oceania:

SimCorner International SIM Card Banner
© SimCorner
International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner
  • Åland Islands
  • Albania
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bangladesh
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Cambodia
  • Canada
  • Chad
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Congo, the Republic of (Brazzaville)
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Egypt
  • El Salvador
  • Estonia
  • Faroe Islands
  • Fiji
  • Finland
  • France
  • Gabon
  • Germany
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Guam
  • Guatemala
  • Honduras
  • Hong Kong
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kenya
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Macau
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Myanmar
  • Nauru
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • North Macedonia
  • Northern Cyprus
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Panama
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Puerto Rico
  • Qatar
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • San Marino
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Sri Lanka
  • Svalbard and Jan Mayen
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Tonga
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Uruguay
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vatican City
  • Vietnam

Instead of spending between 5 USD to 15 USD for SIM cards in each country, get a SimCorner travel SIM card (or eSIM) covering numerous countries for just one price!

Use discount code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings!

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:

RegionWHTGST
Punjab12.5%19.5%
Sindh12.5%19.5%
Baluchistan12.5%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%
From Telenor Pakistan

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

Flag of Pakistan

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.

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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 = 0.45 USD
  • 100 PKR – 0.45 USD
  • 1000 PKR = 4.45 USD
  • 10 000 PKR = 44.40 USD
  • 100 000 PKR = 444.00 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.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

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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 Pakistan Logo

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).

Speedtest Awards Pakistan's Fastest Mobile Network 2019 Award
© Speedtest / Ookla

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 300 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Pakistan Sheeh eSIMs from Airalo (four options):

Pakistan Sheesh eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (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.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Pakistan Guide (logos of Holafly, Ufone, AIS, SimOptions, Sheesh, Ubigi, Jazz & Airalo)
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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Jazz

Jazz recharge cards are sold, in values starting from 100 PKR to 1000 PKR, in Jazz stores and many other retailers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. You can also recharge online (100 PKR – 5000 PKR) with debit and credit cards.

You can redeem your Jazz voucher code by dialing *123*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *123*123456#.

It is also possible to recharge through WhatsApp. To do so, you first send the word hi to +923003008000. Then, send 6 and follow the instructions.

To check your balance, dial *111# (costing 0.24 PKR per check) or dial *444*6*2#. You can also call 111 and select option 5 to hear your balance (for 0.72 PKR).

Just like with recharging, you can get your balance on WhatsApp. To do so, you first send the word hi to +923003008000. Then, send 5.

Note: the WhatsApp features only work if you have set up a WhatsApp account with your Jazz phone number.

Besides all the methods mentioned above, you can also use the Jazz World app to manage your Jazz SIM card (Android & iOS)

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Jazz

Jazz has three types of bundles that feature data, which are:

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, 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:

  1. Select the validity (1: 1 day, 2: 7 days, 3: 30 days)
  2. Confirm that you agree with the terms of MYOB by pressing 1
  3. Enter how many on-net minutes you want (maximum of 6000 on-net minutes)
  4. Enter how many off-net minutes you want (maximum of 1000 off-net minutes)
  5. 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)
  6. Enter how many local SMS you want (maximum of 10 000 SMS)
  7. Review your entries and review the bundle's price.
  8. If everything is to satisfaction, press 1 to confirm your bundle
  9. 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.

Jazz World MYOB Make Your Own Bundle
© Jazz
All In One Offers – Jazz

The All In One Offers are combo plans with data, social media data, minutes, and SMS.

The following All In One Offers are available:

PricePlanDataSocial DataApp(s)On-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesSMSValidityActivation Code
14 PKRDaily Day Bundle20 MBN/AN/A300 minutesN/A300 SMSUntil midnight*340#
17 PKRDaily Super150 MBN/AN/A1440 minutesN/A50 SMS 1 day*212#
28 PKRSuper Plus 500 MBN/AN/A500 minutes5 minutes500 SMS1 day*558#
35 PKR3 Day-Max Offer1 GB N/AN/A100 minutesN/AN/A3 days *631#
75 PKRMahana Bachat OfferN/A2 GBWhatsApp & IMO200 minutes20 minutes2000 SMS30 days *614*2#
89 PKRAll In One Social N/A3 GBWhatsApp, Facebook & IMO1000 minutesN/AN/A7 days *668#
95 PKRWork From Home Bundle10 GBN/AN/AUnlimited 3N/AN/A7 days *117*14#
120 PKRWeekly Hybrid1 GB N/AN/A1000 minutes20 minutes1000 SMS 7 days *407#
170 PKR Weekly All Network 2 GBN/AN/A1000 minutes60 minutes1000 SMS 7 days *700#
210 PKRWeekly Super Duper 3 GBN/AN/A1500 minutes60 minutes1500 SMS 7 days *770#
240 PKR Weekly Super Plus12 GB 1N/AN/A5000 minutes70 minutes5000 SMS 7 days *505#
299 PKRWeekly Super Max30 GBN/AN/A6000 minutes60 minutes6000 SMS7 days *506#
444 PKR Monthly Hybrid 1 GB N/AN/A10 000 minutes 250 minutes1000 SMS 30 days *430#
600 PKRMonthly Super Duper 5 GBN/AN/A3000 minutes150 minutes3000 SMS 30 days *706#
620 PKR Monthly Premium15 GB10 GBYouTube250 minutes (all net)N/AN/A30 days *2000#
977 PKRMonthly Super Duper Plus15 GBN/AN/A5000 minutes300 minutes5000 SMS 30 days *707#

1 6 GB anytime data, 6 GB for between 2:00 – 14:00
2 333 on-net minutes/day, and unlimited on-net minutes on Sundays
3 for between 8:00 – 18:00

All In One Offers Updates:

  • Mahana Bachat Offer: Price increase from 67 PKR to 75 PKR. However, the data allowance can also be used for IMO instead of just WhatsApp
  • Weekly Hybrid: Price increase from 115 PKR to 120 PKR. However, Jazz increased the data allowance from 500 MB to 1 GB
  • Weekly All Network: Price increase from 160 PKR to 170 PKR. However, the data allowance was increased from 1.5 GB to 2 GB. On the other hand, the SMS allowance went down from 1500 SMS to 1000 SMS. Off-Net minutes allowance also went down from 75 minutes to 60 minutes.
  • Weekly Super Max: The 30 GB of data allowance has been made anytime data instead of the data being split as 10 GB anytime data, 10 GB for between 2:00 – 14:00, and 10 GB for YouTube

Do note that Jazz likes to change its plans whenever it feels like it without clearly stating it on its website or on its app, usually in the form of a price increase or changing the allowance. In most cases, even when the price increases, the allowances become better too (or one part becomes better while another suffers).

Data Packages – Jazz

The Data Packages are bundles with data and social media data.

You can purchase the following Data Packages:

PricePackageDataSocial DataApp(s)ValidityActivation Code
FreeFree WhatsApp OfferN/A65 MB/call 1WhatsAppUntil midnight*225#
9 PKRSuper Ghanta Offer1 GBN/AN/A1 hour *638#
15 PKRDaily YouTube & SocialN/A1 GBYouTube, WhatsApp & Facebook1 day *968#
15 PKRDaily Extreme2 GB N/AN/A1 day (0:00 – 12:00)*757#
27 PKRDaily Mega1 GBN/AN/A24 hours*117*4#
75 PKRWeekly Extreme25 GBN/AN/A7 days (0:00 – 12:00)*117*1#
89 PKRWeekly YouTube & Social N/A5 GBIMO, WhatsApp, YouTube & Facebook 7 days *660#
89 PKRMonthly Browser2 GBN/AN/A30 days *709#
99 PKRMonthly Social N/A5 GB WhatsApp, Facebook & IMO 230 days *661#
169 PKRWeekly Premium5 GB 5N/AN/A7 days *117*47#
210 PKRWeekly Mega7 GBN/AN/A7 days *159#
275 PKRWeekly Mega Plus 25 GBN/AN/A7 days *453#
349 PKRMonthly Mega Plus 12 GB 3N/AN/A30 days *117*30#
499 PKRMonthly Supreme20 GB 4N/AN/A30 days *117*32#
620 PKRMonthly Premium15 GB10 GBYouTube30 days *2000#

1 maximum of 65 MB per call. FUP of 10 calls/day (650 MB/day). Data can also be used for regular WhatsApp usage
2 + 12 000 local SMS
3 6 GB anytime data, 6 GB for between 2:00 – 14:00
4 10 GB anytime data, 10 GB for between 2:00 – 14:00
5 + 50 local minutes

Data Package Updates:

  • Infinity Browser became Monthly Browser with the same 2 GB allowance. The validity, however, reduced from 180 days to 30 days, and the price increased from 80 PKR to 89 PKR

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 Logo

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).

Telenor Pakistan Self Service Booth
© Telenor Pakistan

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.

Telenor Pakistan Self Service Booth Locations
© Telenor Pakistan
  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get eSIMs from Holafly (one option):

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

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.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Pakistan Guide (logos of Holafly, Ufone, AIS, SimOptions, Sheesh, Ubigi, Jazz & Airalo)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

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).

My Telenor App Pakistan
© Telenor Pakistan

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Telenor Pakistan

Telenor has many bundles, ranging from data-only offers to combo bundles. Below is an overview:

PriceBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)On-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation Code
1.50 PKRDaily Social PackN/A50 MBFacebook & WhatsAppN/AN/AN/A1 day *311#
5 PKRMonthly WhatsApp Package1500 MBN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days *247#
8 PKRDaily YouTube PackageN/A500 MBYouTubeN/AN/AN/AUntil midnight*60#
13 PKRFull Day Offer50 MB100 MBWhatsAppUnlimitedN/AN/AUntil midnight*5*250#
15 PKRWeekly Music BundleN/A500 MBSoundcloud & PatariN/AN/AN/A7 daysOnline/Telenor App
18 PKR Raat Din Offer1.5 GBN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A12 hours (0:00 – 12:00) *150#
18 PKRWeekly Sports OfferN/A2000 MBCricwick & CricnGifN/AN/AN/A7 days*345*74#
40 PKRTikTok & Snapchat PackageN/A2 GBTikTok & Snapchat N/AN/AN/A30 days Online/Telenor App
44 PKR4G 3 Day Bundle1000 MB N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A3 days *32#
45 PKRMonthly IMO PackageN/A2000 MBIMON/AN/AN/A30 days *466#
50 PKRTelenor 3/3 Offer50 MBN/AN/A600 minutesN/AN/A3 days *345*243#
50 PKRMonthly Social Pack100 MB3000 MBFacebook & WhatsAppN/AN/AN/A30 days *911#
50 PKR4G Weekly Internet Max30 GBN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A7 days (0:00 – 9:00)*19#
52 PKR3 Day Sahular Offer50 MB100 MNFacebook, WhatsApp & Twitter250 minutes25 minutesN/A3 days *5*3#
55 PKRWeekly 6 to 6 Offer4000 MBN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A7 days (6:00 – 18:00)*71#
75 PKRMonthly Social Pack PlusN/A5000 MBFacebook & WhatsAppN/AN/A10 000 SMS30 days *660#
80 PKRWeekly YouTube PackageN/A5000 MBYouTubeN/AN/AN/A7 days*220#
90 PKRHaftawar Chappar Phaar Offer70 MB350 MBFacebook, WhatsApp & TwitterUnlimitedN/AN/A7 days*5*700#
110 PKR4G Weekly Super4000 MB 2N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A7 days *288#
115 PKR Haftawar Sahulat Offer 100 MB350 MBWhatsApp, Facebook & Twitter1000 minutes70 minutes700 SMS7 days *5*7#
135 PKRWeekly Easy Card1500 MBN/AN/A1000 minutes (+PTCL)50 minutesN/A7 days*963#
150 PKR4G Monthly Light2 GB1 GB WhatsApp, Goonj & GameBoxN/AN/AN/A30 days *301#
185 PKR4G Weekly Ultra8 GB1 GBGoonjN/AN/AN/A7 days *336#
222 PKRMega Weekly Easy Card10 GB 3N/AN/A2000 minutes (+PLTC)N/AN/A7 days *001#
240 PKR4G Weekly Ultra Plus20 GB 4N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A7 days *225#
300 PKR4G Monthly Starter Bundle8 GB 5N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days *302#
450 PKR 4G Monthly Ultra10 GB 6N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days *335#
450 PKR Monthly East Card 4501 GB2 GBWhatsApp500 minutes (+PTCL)50 minutes500 SMS30 days *350#
530 PKRMonthly Easy Card 600 6 GB + 6 GB nighttime 8N/AN/A3000 minutes (+PTCL)150 minutes 93000 SMS30 days *530#
700 PKR4G Monthly Ultra Plus 50 GB 7N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days *303#
715 PKR Monthly Easy Card 8009 GB + 9 GB nighttime 8N/AN/A5000 minutes (+PTCL)300 minutes3000 SMS30 days *80#

1 500 MB anytime data, 500 MB for between 0:00 – 8:00
2 2000 MB anytime data, 2000 MB for between 1:00 – 11:00
3 5 GB anytime data, 5 GB for between 1:00 – 11:00
4 10 GB anytime data, 10 GB for between 1:00 – 11:00
5 4 GB anytime data, 4 GB for between 1:00 – 7:00
6 5 GB anytime data, 5 GB for between 12:00 – 8:00
7 25 GB anytime data, 25 GB for between 1:00 – 11:00
8 Nighttime data for between 1:00 – 11:00
9 + 25 international minutes to Canada, the United Kingdom & the United States

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 Pakistan Logo

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.

Zong New SIM Offer
© Zong

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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get Pakistan Sheeh eSIMs from Airalo (four options):

Pakistan Sheesh eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (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.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Pakistan Guide (logos of Holafly, Ufone, AIS, SimOptions, Sheesh, Ubigi, Jazz & Airalo)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

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.

Zong App
© Zong

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Zong

Zong has many bundles to choose from, which are:

All bundles can be purchased by dialing *310# or on the Zong app.

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Zong Prepaid Plans
© Zong
All In One Bundles – Zong

The All In One Bundles are combo bundles with data, social data (for YouTube, tapmad TV, TikTok & WhatsApp), minutes, and SMS.

The following All In One Bundles are available:

PriceBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)All-Net MinutesOn-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidity
200 PKR 15 Combo Pack 3 GBN/AN/A50 minutesN/AN/AN/A15 days 
200 PKR Weekly All-In-1 Weekly 2.5 GBN/AN/AN/A1000 minutes40 minutes1000 SMS7 days 
270 PKRWeekly Haftawar Load Offer12 GB 1N/AN/AN/A5000 minutes80 minutes5000 SMS7 days 
299 PKR Super Weekly Max15 GB15 GBYouTube (+tapmad TV)N/AN/AN/AN/A7 days 
330 PKRSuper Weekly Premium and Zong Mobile TV15 GB15 GBYouTube, TikTok & Zong TV 100 minutesN/AN/AN/A7 days 
330 PKRSuper Weekly Premium30 GBN/AN/A100 minutesN/AN/AN/A7 days 
500 PKRStar Pre-Load Monthly Power Pack SIM 5002.5 GBN/AN/AN/A1000 minutes50 minutes1000 SMS30 days 
650 PKR Monthly Zong Super Card3 GB3 GBWhatsAppN/A180 minutesN/AN/A30 days 
1000 PKR Value Pre-Load Monthly Power Pack SIM 1000500 MB N/AN/AN/A2000 minutes150 minutes1500 SMS30 days 
1000 PKR Gold Pre-Load 3 Months Power Pack SIM 15008 GBN/AN/AN/A8000 minutes200 minutes3000 SMS90 days 
1000 PKR Monthly Supreme Offer5 GBN/AN/AN/A5000 minutes300 minutesN/A30 days 
1300 PKRMonthly Super Offer20 GB10 GBYouTube (6 GB) & WhatsApp (4 GB)N/A5000 minutes300 minutes3000 SMS30 days 

1 6 GB anytime data, 6 GB for between 1:00 – 9:00

Call Bundles – Zong

The Call Bundles are plans focused on calls. However, a few Call Bundles include data, WhatsApp data, and local SMS.

Only the bundles with a data allowance will be mentioned below (even those with just 1 MB, straight up useless).

You can get one of the following Call Bundles:

PriceBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)On-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidity
5 PKR Hourly Super Student Bundle 30 MBN/AN/AUnlimitedN/AN/A1 hour
5 PKR Daily Full GupN/A30 MBWhatsApp75 minutesN/A100 SMS1 day 
8 PKRDaily Sixer Plus 11 MB N/AN/AUnlimitedN/A500 SMS1 day 
12 PKRDaily Flutter50 MBN/AN/A120 minutesN/A120 SMS1 day 
13 PKRDaily Hello 1 Din50 MBN/AN/A150 minutesN/A150 SMS1 day 
14 PKR Daily Shandaar Daily Offer 50 MBN/AN/AUnlimitedN/A800 SMS1 day 
45 PKRWeekly Hello 7 Day Bundle 1 MB N/AN/A100 minutes/day N/A100 SMS7 days 
120 PKRWeekly Shandaar Haftawaar Offer500 MBN/AN/A500 minutes40 minutes500 SMS7 days 
170 PKRWeekly Hello Monthly Bundle 1 MB N/AN/A100 minutes/day N/A100 SMS7 days 
300 PKR Monthly Shandaar Mahana Offer1 GB N/AN/A1000 minutes100 minutes1000 SMS30 days 

1 for between 6:00 – 18:00

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 and WhatsApp data.

Only the bundles with a data allowance will be mentioned below.

You can get one of the following SMS Bundles:

PriceBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)Local SMSValidity
4 PKRDaily Zulu SMS Bundle1 MBN/AN/A500 SMS1 day 
5 PKRDaily SMS + WhatsApp Bundle 1 MB30 MBWhatsApp500 SMS1 day 
21 PKRWeekly SMS + WhatsApp Bundle N/A200 MBWhatsApp1500 SMS7 days 
50 PKRMonthly SMS + WhatsApp BundleN/A30 MB/dayWhatsApp500 SMS/day30 days 

For the remaining SMS Bundles without a data allowance, check out the SMS Bundles page.

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 ReloadBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)All-Net MinutesOn-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidity
Free6 GB on First Time App Registration200 MB/day (6 GB)N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days 
300 PKRSuper Weekly Premium Bundle 15 GB15 GBYouTube & TikTok100 minutesN/AN/AN/A7 days 
1000 PKRSupreme Offer10 000 MBN/AN/AN/A5000 minutes300 minutes5000 SMS30 days 
3500 PKR 150 GB Exclusive Prepaid MBB Offer150 GBN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days 
Data Bundles – Zong

The Data Bundles are data plans with data and social data (for Facebook, Google Duo, YouTube, TikTok, WhatsApp & IMO).

The following Data Bundles can be purchased:

PriceBundleDataSocial DataApp(s)Validity
5 PKRDaily Facebook OfferN/A500 MBFacebook1 day 
5 PKRClassified Pack50 MBN/AN/A1 day 
10 PKRSocial Pack100 MBN/AN/A1 day 
10 PKRGoogle Duo OfferN/A2 GBGoogle Duo30 days 
16 PKRYouth Offer2.5 GB 1N/AN/A1 day 
16 PKRDaytime Offer1200 MB 2N/AN/A1 day 
17 PKRDaily Basic100 MBN/AN/A1 day 
38 PKRDaily Data Max500 MB500 MBYouTube 1 day 
50 PKRMonthly Mini 150150 MBN/AN/A30 days 
50 PKRWeekly TikTok OfferN/A2 GBTikTok7 days 
50 PKRMonthly WhatsApp OfferN/A4 GBWhatsApp30 days 
50 PKRMonthly IMO OfferN/A2 GBIMO30 days 
80 PKRMonthly WhatsApp Plus Offer 3N/A4 GBWhatsApp30 days 
100 PKRMonthly Facebook Offer N/A6 GBFacebook30 days 
100 PKRWeekly Mega Data Offer100 GB 4N/AN/A7 days
135 PKRWeekly YouTube OfferN/A8 GBYouTube 7 days
150 PKRMonthly Basic Offer500 MBN/AN/A30 days 
165 PKRWeekly Super Offer2.5 GBN/AN/A7 days
240 PKRWeekly Super Plus7 GBN/AN/A7 days
299 PKRWeekly Super Max15 GB15 GBYouTube 7 days
600 PKR Monthly Premium 15 GB15 GB 5N/AN/A30 days 
750 PKR Monthly Prepaid Internet SIM Addons – 8 GB8 GB 6N/AN/A30 days 
1000 PKRMonthly Premium 40 GB 40 GB 7N/AN/A30 days 
1200 PKRMonthly Prepaid Internet SIM Addons – 24 GB24 GB 8N/AN/A30 days 
2000 PKRMonthly Prepaid Internet SIM Addons – 60 GB60 GBN/AN/A30 days 
3500 PKRMonthly 150 GB MBB Exclusive Offer150 GBN/AN/A30 days 

1 for between 1:00 – 9:00
2 for between 4:00 – 19:00
3 + 200 on-net minutes and 20 off-net minutes
4 for between 1:00 – 9:00. Max 2 GB for WhatsApp
5 10 GB anytime data, 5 GB for between 1:00 – 9:00
6 4 GB anytime data, 4 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
7 20 GB anytime data, 20 GB for between 1:00 – 9:00
8 12 GB anytime data, 12 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00

Data Share Bundles – Zong

The Data Share Bundles are data bundles that can be shared with multiple Zong numbers in a group.

The following Data Share Bundles are available:

PriceBundleDataValidity
500 PKRMonthly 5 GB5 GB30 days 
900 PKR Monthly 10 GB 10 GB 30 days 

After purchasing a Data Share Bundle, dial *6464*5# to set up a sharing group.

Internet SIM Packages – Zong

The Internet SIM Packages are data bundles exclusively for the Internet SIM (data-only SIM card).

You can get any of the following Internet SIM Packages:

PriceBundleDataValidity
230 PKRPrepaid Data Addons1 GB 1As per base bundle 
570 PKRPrepaid – Internet SIM Addons1 GB 2As per base bundle 
750 PKR 1 Month Bundle 8 GB 330 days 
1150 PKRInternet SIM New Tariff 3 GB/3 Month3 GB/month (9 GB)90 days 
1200 PKR 1 Month Bundle 24 GB 430 days 
1800 PKR1 Month Bundle 30 GB30 days 
2000 PKR1 Month Bundle 60 GB30 days 
2790 PKRInternet SIM New Tariff 12 GB/3 Month12 GB/month (36 GB)90 days 
3250 PKR Prepaid Intenet SIM Addons – (Monthly) 175 GB 175 GB30 days 

1 for between 1:00 – 9:00
2 for between 9:00 – 16:00
3 4 GB anytime data, 4 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
4 12 GB anytime data, 12 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00

Mobile Broadband (MBB) Bundles – Zong

The Mobile Broadband (MBB) Bundles are data bundles exclusively for those with a Zong MBB device.

PriceBundleDataValidity
230 PKRMBB Good Night Offer (GNO)1 GB1:00 – 9:00
450 PKRMonthly Prepaid MBB Add-On 5 GB5 GBAs per base bundle 
2000 PKRMonthly Prepaid MBB 60 GB60 GB30 days 
2500 PKRMonthly Prepaid MBB 150 GB150 GB 130 days 
3250 PKRMonthly Prepaid MBB 200 GB200 GB 230 days 
5500 PKR3 Months Prepaid MBB (60 GB/Month)60 GB/month (180 GB)90 days 
12 000 PKR6 Months Prepaid MBB (100 GB/Month)100 GB/month (600 GB) 3180 days 
22 000 PKR 12 Months Prepaid MBB (100 GB/Month)100 GB/month (1200 GB) 3360 days 

1 75 GB anytime data, 75 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
2 100 GB anytime data, 100 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00
3 75 GB anytime data, 25 GB for between 4:00 – 16:00

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 Pakistan Logo

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:

PriceSIM CardDataWhatsApp DataOn-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesLocal SMSPerks Validity
200 PKRNew SIM Offer2000 MBUnlimited (90 days)500 minutes25 minutes500 SMS5 days 
200 PKR Internet SIM 1000 MBN/AN/AN/AN/A30 days 
250 PKRClassic OfferN/AUnlimited * N/AN/AN/A90 days 
570 PKR Super Card Double Offer 3400 MBN/A2000 minutes300 minutes8000 SMS30 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Pakistan (without personal detail capturing), you can get eSIMs from Holafly (one option):

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

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.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Pakistan Guide (logos of Holafly, Ufone, AIS, SimOptions, Sheesh, Ubigi, Jazz & Airalo)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

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).

Ufone Recharge
© Ufone

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Ufone

Ufone has six data-featured prepaid bundles to choose from, which are:

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Ufone Super Cards
© Ufone
Super Card Family – Ufone

Super Card Family Packages are combo plans with data, Facebook data, minutes, and SMS.

The following Ufone Super Card Family Packages are available:

PriceOfferDataFacebook DataOn-Net Minutes (+PTCL)Off-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation Code
53 PKR Super Recharge Offer 100 MBN/A 300 minutes10 minutes700 SMS2 days *300#
135 PKR Super Internet 1.2 GBN/A N/A N/A N/A 7 days *220# 
330 PKR Mini Super Card600 MB N/A 500 minutes75 minutes3500 SMS15 days *230# 
599 PKRSuper Card Plus 2000 MB “Unlimited”, 5 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes180 minutes4200 SMS30 days *250#
999 PKRSuper Card Gold 5 GB“Unlimited”, 7 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes300 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS30 days *900#
All In One Offers – Ufone

The All In One Offers are combo plans with data, Facebook Data, minutes, and SMS.

You can get one of the following All In One Offers:

PriceOfferDataFacebook DataOn-Net Minutes (+PTCL)Off-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation CodeAuto-Renews?Unsubscribe Code
7.17 PKRPower Hour60 MBN/A60 minutes* N/A60 SMS1 hour *99#NoN/A
18 PKRDaily Pakistan Offer10 MBN/A100 minutesN/AN/A1 day *888#Yes*8880#
100 PKRWeekly Pakistan Offer 100 MBN/A700 minutesN/AN/A7 days*8888#Yes*8880#
120 PKR Asli Chappar Phaar Offer 1000 MBN/A100 minutes (no PTCL)N/A100 SMS7 days *5050#NoN/A
418 PKR Monthly Pakistan Offer400 MBN/A4000 minutesN/AN/A30 days *8888#Yes*8880#

* On-net minutes can also be used to call Vfone (PTCL) numbers.

Internet Offers – Ufone

The Internet Offers are data bundles with regular data and data for Line & WhatsApp.

The following Internet Offers are available:

PriceBundleDataLine & WhatsApp DataValidityActivation Code
6 PKRSpecial Daily50 MB500 MB1 day (1:00 – 21:00)*3461#
12 PKRDaily Light40 MB500 MB1 day*2256#
15 PKR Mega Internet2 GBN/A1 night (1:00 – 8:00)*550#
18 PKRDaily Heavt 75 MB500 MB1 day*2258#
30 PKR3 Day Bucket100 MB500 MB3 days*3350#
135 PKRSuper Internet1.2 GBN/A7 days *220#
180 PKR Weekly Internet Plus 6 GB *N/A7 days *260# 
390 PKR Monthly Light 1 GB2 GB30 days *7807#
499 PKR Super Internet Plus 8 GB5 GB (WhatsApp)30 days *290#
780 PKRMonthly Heavy3 GB2 GB30 days *803#
1560 PKR Monthly Max10 GB 2 GB30 days *5100#

* 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.

iPhone Buckets – Ufone

The iPhone Buckets are data plans with reduced speeds (up to 3 Mbps) specifically for iPhone users.

You can get one of the following iPhone Buckets:

PriceDataSpeedsValidity
1000 PKR3 GB3 Mbps30 days 
1800 PKR5 GB3 Mbps30 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.

Content Bundles – Ufone

The Content Bundles are data bundles for select social media apps, such as WhatsApp, YouTube, Daily Motion, and TikTok.

The following Content Bundles are available for purchase:

PriceBundleSocial DataApp(s)Local SMSValidityActivation Code
6 PKRSocial Daily100 MBWhatsAppN/A1 day *4422#
6 PKRDaily Chat500 MBWhatsApp10 000 SMS1 day *3465#
10 PKR Streaming Offer500 MBYouTube & DailyMotionN/A1 hour*78#
50 PKR Ufone TikTok Offer1.5 GBTikTokN/A7 days *2345#
60 PKRSocial Monthly1 GBWhatsAppN/A30 days *5858#

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 exclusively for Ufone's Internet SIM (data-only SIM).

You can get one of the following Internet SIM Bundles:

PriceBundleDataSocial Media DataValidity
100 PKRSuper Internet1.2 GBN/A7 day
250 PKRMonthly Light1 GB2 GB30 days 
500 PKRMonthly Heavy3 GB2 GB30 days 
1000 PKRMonthly Max10 GB2 GB30 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.


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.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

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 cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile 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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Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.

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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!

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!