SIM Card at Addis Ababa Bole Airport (ADD)

Where to Buy SIM Card at Addis Ababa Airport (ADD)?

Buy Ethiopia SIM Card Online and Pickup at Addis Ababa Airport
If you're planning to travel to Ethiopia and arriving at Addis Ababa Airport you might be able to buy a SIM card online in advanced and pick it up at ADD airport (subject to availability). You can also buy a Ethiopia eSIM online if it's compatible with your phone.

» 🇪🇹 Buy an eSIM online that works in Ethiopia and globally.

» 🔎 Find a Ethiopia SIM Card via Klook (ADD Airport Pickup)
» 🔎 Find a Ethiopia SIM Card via GetYourGuide (ADD Airport Pickup)

Buy Ethiopia SIM Card on Arrival at Addis Ababa Airport
Below are the details on the best sim card and data plans that you can buy when you arrive in Addis Ababa Airport. We provide information on different mobile providers in Ethiopia, location in ADD airport, mobile plans for tourist and their prices.

• Location: Arrival Hall, left side after customs in Bole International Airport, with a clearly marked Ethio Telecom kiosk.
• Hours: Open 24 hours a day at the airport.
• Estimated Price: 50 ETB for SIM (includes 15 ETB credit), plus data packages like 45 ETB = 1 GB/day, 250 ETB = 4 GB/month, unlimited packages from ~440 ETB/week to ~700 ETB‑1,900 ETB/month.
• Payment Method: Cash (ETB), USD, EUR, GBP accepted; no credit cards.

• Location: Available at the same airport Ethio Telecom counter and/or via QR-code activation.
• Hours: Counter operates 24 hours; eSIM QR-code can be installed anytime with Wi‑Fi.
• Estimated Price: Follows Ethio Telecom eSIM plans—similar to physical package pricing (e.g., 60 ETB for 650 MB + bonus, 100 ETB for 2 GB + bonus, full packages up to 150 ETB+).
• Payment Method: Cash at counter or online via credit/debit when purchasing QR eSIM.

• Location: Not yet available at Bole Airport; will roll out through airport kiosks and authorized dealers in future.
• Hours: Airport rollout pending.
• Estimated Price: Not currently available at airport.
• Payment Method: N/A until counter opens.

Need more info? Visit Addis Ababa Airport website map page to find specific location or contact ADD airport customer service at this phone number or email: +251 11 665 0400

SIM Card Registration & Activation Process for Tourists in Ethiopia

Tourists in Ethiopia must present a valid passport to register a SIM card, ensuring identity verification and regulatory compliance. Registration must be done in person at authorized retail outlets of mobile operators. The process typically involves scanning the passport, capturing the customer’s photo, and completing a digital form with personal details. SIM cards are usually activated shortly after registration. These regulations aim to enhance national security and prevent misuse of mobile services, aligning with Ethiopia’s telecommunications and data protection policies.

eSIM Card for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Using an eSIM for Ethiopia offers flexibility to switch carriers without physical SIM cards. It's convenient for frequent travelers and reduces the risk of losing SIM cards. more info...

Ethiopia SIM Card and Mobile Phone Providers

A list of all the best mobile providers/carriers in Ethiopia.

Related Info:
- Mobile Coverage Map in Ethiopia
- Buying a SIM Card at the Airport Tips & Advice
- eSIM Card vs Physical SIM - Which is Better?

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