Table of Contents
Having an Iran SIM card is very important for tourists visiting the country. It allows them to stay in touch with their family and friends. It also lets them use social media in Iran, even if they are blocked.
Iran provides a simple solution by offering SIM cards from reliable providers like Hamrah-e Aval (MCI), Irancell, and RighTel. These companies make sure you have good 4G coverage in cities and towns. This means you can talk and use Iran SIM networks without any problems during your trip. The process of getting an Iranian SIM card is not difficult.
Iran SIM Card Operators
Iran’s telecommunications world has three main companies: Hamrah-e Aval, Irancell, and RighTel. Each of these big companies has its own special advantages and disadvantages, giving customers different options to choose from.
Hamrah-e Aval is the oldest and most well-known company. It is famous for having a large coverage area and a reliable network. However, its prices may not fit everyone’s budget, and some people have complained about the company’s customer service.
Irancell is the newer, rising company. It impresses people with its modern technology and unique service packages, which are often cheaper than the competition. But there have been reports of the Irancell network getting crowded at times, and the quality of service can vary.
RighTel is the newest company. It offers customized solutions for specific customer groups, but its network coverage is relatively limited compared to the other two, so it may not work as well for people who need service across the whole country.
Iran SIM Card Operator: Hamrah-e Aval (MCI)
Hamrah-e Aval, started in 1994, is the very first mobile telecommunication company in Iran. It is one of the most dependable choices available. As a traveler in Iran, getting a Hamrah-e Aval SIM card can be a good option for staying connected.
Hamrah-e Aval offers Iran prepaid SIM cards, where you pay a certain amount of money upfront, which you can use as credits to make phone calls or send text messages. They also have Tourism SIM Cards, which are similar to their prepaid cards. With a Tourism SIM Card, your Iranian SIM Card will already have a certain amount of credit loaded, and it will be valid for one month or one year, depending on which card you choose.
The Tourism SIM Cards from Hamrah-e Aval can be a more convenient option because you only need your passport to buy and register them. You can get up to three Iranian SIM Cards with one passport. You can find more information in their helpful brochure.
Registering Your SIM Card
- For Iran Prepaid SIM Cards: Dial *141*1# on your phone, then make your first call or send a text to complete registration. If you need help, visit a Hamrah-e Aval office or ask your hotel staff.
- For Tourism SIM Cards: Visit a Hamrah-e Aval office in person and present your passport to register up to 3 SIM cards.
Activating Internet
- Dial *10*231# or send “1” to 8088.
- Dial *#06# to get your phone’s 15-digit IMEI number.
- Send the IMEI number via SMS to 8008.
Recharging Credit
- Using Vouchers: Purchase a voucher from shops or offices, then dial *140*#[voucher PIN]#.
- Direct Purchase: Dial *10*121# to buy credit directly.
Buying Internet Packages
- Dial *100*2#.
- Select your desired internet package.
Changing Language to English
- Dial *198*2# to change USSD message language to English.
Using the mymci App
The mymci app provides a convenient way to manage your account, but you may need assistance from locals or hotel staff if you don’t have an Iranian debit card.
Iran SIM Card Operators: Irancell
Irancell is perhaps the largest mobile operator in Iran, and also the most accessible one. This operator offers different options to meet the needs of both people living in Iran and visitors.
Choosing a Plan
- Prepaid: Control expenses by loading credit in advance, suitable for travelers.
- Postpaid: Pay at the end of each month, better for long-term stays.
Visitor Cards for Tourists
- Get a prepaid Visitor Card valid for 1 month.
- Includes credit, data allowance, and international minutes.
- Check Irancell’s website for package details.
Internet Access
- Enjoy 4G and LTE internet connectivity across Iran.
- Purchase internet packages to avoid depleting main credit balance quickly.
- Irancell has 27 offices in Tehran, 8 in Isfahan, and 10 in Shiraz.
Registering and Activating
- Dial *141*1# to register and activate your SIM card.
- Dial *555*4*2# to enable internet access.
- For postpaid plans, registration is the same, but pay monthly via MyIrancell app or *7#.
- For Visitor Cards, visit an Irancell store/booth for assistance.
Recharging and Data Packages
- Use MyIrancell app for convenient top-ups and data package purchases.
- Alternatively, use USSD codes:
- *555*1*2# for top-ups
- *555*5# for data packages
- Vouchers are still an option but less convenient.
Remember, the MyIrancell app and USSD codes provide a modern and efficient experience for managing your Irancell SIM card in Iran.
Iran SIM Card Operators: RighTel
As the latest entrant in Iran’s mobile network landscape, RighTel offers both prepaid and postpaid Iranian SIM cards with 3G/4G internet access. However, acquiring a RighTel SIM card can be slightly more challenging for travelers, as they don’t have a booth at the Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA).
Purchasing a RighTel SIM Card
- Visit one of their physical offices (12 in Tehran, 1 in Isfahan, 1 in Shiraz)
- Or make a purchase through their website
- Note: They don’t have a booth at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA)
Registering and Activating
- No additional steps required for registration or internet activation after purchasing
- This provides a hassle-free experience
Coverage Limitations
- Good coverage in major cities
- Limited or no coverage in rural areas, on the road, or less populated regions
Recharging and Managing Your Account
- Use the MyRighTel app for convenient recharging and account management
- Alternatively, use the *200# USSD code for recharging or purchasing
Keep in Mind
- RighTel is a newer operator with limited coverage compared to Hamrah-e Aval and Irancell
- Lack of a dedicated tourist SIM card option
- May be less appealing for travelers exploring remote areas, unless staying primarily in urban centers
While RighTel offers the convenience of hassle-free registration and activation, as well as multiple recharging options, its limited coverage and lack of a tourist-focused offering could be drawbacks for some travelers in Iran.
Where to Get Iran Sim Card
Easy Airport Purchase
Your first choice is to buy an Iran SIM card at the airport. Two of the main telecom companies (which we will talk about later) have their own booths there. This can be helpful because the people at the booths will guide you through the different steps of registration, adding money, and everything else. However, you may be too tired from your flight and not want to do a lot of paperwork. In that case, you can easily visit their offices in whichever city you would like.
Relaxed City Store Experience
If you prefer to avoid the paperwork right after your flight or feel too tired from your journey, you can choose to visit the retail stores of these telecom providers in the city you want. This allows you to get a SIM card at your own pace, without rushing to do it right after landing. The city stores offer a more relaxed environment, where you can take your time, ask questions, and select the plan that works best for your needs.
Both choices – the airport booths and the city stores – provide an easy and accessible way to get an Iranian SIM card. Whether you prefer the convenience of getting it done when you arrive or the relaxed experience of visiting a store later, you’ll have the opportunity to stay connected during your travels in Iran.
Iran Sim Card Price
While the exact pricing of Iran SIM card may vary depending on the plan and type of SIM card you choose, the average cost typically ranges from 5 to 10 euros. This affordable price point makes it accessible for travelers to enjoy reliable Iran SIM networks throughout their journey in Iran.
Iran Sim Card Internet
You do not necessarily need Iran SIM card to have portable internet access. There are options to rent portable modems or hotspot devices that provide internet connectivity without requiring a SIM card.
One such option is renting a mobile hotspot or portable WiFi device from your internet service provider or a third-party rental company. These devices connect to cellular networks and create a personal WiFi hotspot that you can use to get internet access on your laptop, tablet, or other WiFi-enabled devices.
The portable modems or hotspots work by connecting to the cellular data network of the service provider, similar to how a smartphone connects to the internet without a physical SIM card. The rental device itself has the necessary components and configurations to establish the data connection and provide internet access.
Social Networks in Iran
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal are some of the major social media platforms that are blocked in Iran. To get access to these platforms, Iranians usually use virtual private network (VPN) or proxy applications to go around the government’s internet censorship and restrictions.
Iran has one of the most extensive internet censorship systems worldwide, blocking access to numerous websites, apps, and online services beyond just social media platforms. This includes news outlets, human rights websites, privacy tools like VPNs, and various other types of content considered unacceptable by the Iranian authorities.
FAQs about Iran Sim Card
Q1: Which SIM card is best for Iran?
A1: Hamrah-e Aval, also called MCI (Mobile Telecommunication Company of Iran), is the biggest mobile phone company in Iran. It can be the best SIM card in Iran and provides many services like phone calls, text messages, and mobile internet.
Q2: How much does a SIM card cost in Iran?
A2: The cost depends on the plan and type of SIM card you choose. On average, it costs between 5 to 10 euros.
Q3: How to activate SIM card in Iran?
A3: Registering your Irancell SIM card is similar to registering a Hamrahe Aval card. You just dial the USSD Code *141*1#. To activate internet access on your card, you need to dial *555*4*2#.
Q4: How to check Iran SIM number?
A4: If you use SIM cards from Irancell, MCI, RighTel, or similar providers, you can find out your SIM card number indirectly. To do this, go to the keypad on your phone, dial *733*2# (star – seven hundred and thirty-three – star – two – square), and send it.
Q5: What is the country code for Iran SIM?
A5: 98 is Iran’s country calling code, assigned by the International Telecommunication Union.
Last Words: Discover the Best of Iran SIM Card with a Customized Tour
Getting an Iran SIM card is really important for tourists in Iran. It helps them keep in touch with their loved ones and use social media apps, even if there are network blocks. Iran offers SIM cards from reliable providers like Hamrah-e Aval (MCI), Irancell, and RighTel. These companies ensure good 4G coverage in cities and towns, so tourists can talk and surf the web smoothly. Getting an Iranian SIM card isn’t hard at all.
If you’re planning a trip to Iran and want to stay connected hassle-free, getting an Iran Sim Card is a smart move. But to really make the most of your time there, consider going on a personalized tour. When you travel with To Iran Tour, you not only experience the beauty and culture of Iran but also enjoy uninterrupted communication during your stay. We understand the importance of staying connected, whether it’s to share your adventures with loved ones back home or to navigate your way through the enchanting streets of Iran’s cities.
With To Iran Tour, your journey begins with convenience and peace of mind.
