Best Calling and Data SIM Cards for Tourists In Azerbaijan

In this guide, we will explore some of the best calling and data SIM cards available to tourists in Azerbaijan. From affordable data packages to extensive network coverage, these SIM cards are designed to meet the communication and connectivity needs of travellers exploring the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Azerbaijan. Let's delve into the top choices to ensure you stay connected and make the most of your journey in this captivating country.

Best SIM Cards in Azerbaijan

Here is a table comparing the four SIM cards:

The following are some short notes about the mentioned mobile operators and Airalo as potential options for tourists looking for calling and data SIM cards in Azerbaijan:

• Azercell

   - One of the largest and most popular mobile operators in Azerbaijan.

   - Offers good network coverage in urban areas and popular tourist destinations.

   - Provides various data plans suitable for tourists, including short-term packages.

   - Accessible through official stores, retailers, and online platforms.

• Azercell SIM Card

With Azercell SIM cards, users can enjoy seamless connectivity, access to the internet, and reliable communication during their stay in the country. The SIM cards are readily available at official Azercell stores, authorised retailers, and other distribution points, making it convenient for tourists to get connected upon arrival.

• Azercell SIM Card Network Coverage

Azercell's network coverage is constantly expanding, and they are committed to providing their customers with the best possible coverage. If you are planning to travel to Azerbaijan, you can check Azercell's network coverage map to see if they have coverage in the areas you will be visiting.

• The features of Azercell SIM cards

Network coverage: Azercell has the best network coverage in Azerbaijan, covering over 99% of the country.

Data speeds: Azercell offers some of the fastest data speeds in Azerbaijan, with download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.

Plans: Azercell offers a variety of plans to choose from, including prepaid and postpaid plans.

Price: Azercell SIM cards are relatively affordable, with plans starting at around 10 AZN per month.

• Pros and cons of Azercell SIM cards

Pros:

• Best network coverage in Azerbaijan
• Fastest data speeds in Azerbaijan
• Variety of plans to choose from
• Affordable prices

Cons:

• Can be a bit pricey
• Customer service can be slow
• Coverage can be spotty in rural areas

Overall, Azercell SIM cards are a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable way to stay connected in Azerbaijan. They offer the best network coverage and fastest data speeds in the country, and they have a variety of plans to choose from. However, they can be a bit pricey, and customer service can be slow.

• Bakcell

   - Another major mobile operator in Azerbaijan, known for its competitive data plans.

   - Offers 4G and 4G+ network services for fast internet browsing.

   - Provides both prepaid and postpaid options to cater to different user preferences.

   - Available at stores, shopping malls, and kiosks throughout the country.

• Bakcell SIM Card 

For tourists visiting Azerbaijan, Bakcell SIM cards offer a convenient option to stay connected during their stay. 

• Bakcell SIM Card Network Coverage

Bakcell's network coverage is slightly lower than Azercell, but it is still very good. They have a wide network of 4G base stations, and they are constantly expanding their coverage.

Here is a table showing the network coverage of Bakcell in Azerbaijan:

• Here are some of the pros and cons of Bakcell SIM cards:

Pros:

• Good network coverage
• Competitive data plans
• Affordable prices

Cons:

• Coverage can be spotty in rural areas
• Customer service can be slow

Overall, Bakcell SIM cards are a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable way to stay connected in Azerbaijan. They offer good network coverage and competitive data plans, and they are relatively affordable. However, coverage can be spotty in rural areas, and customer service can be slow.

• Nar

   - A well-established mobile operator with a growing customer base.

   - Offers affordable data and call packages with flexible choices.

   - Known for its friendly and helpful customer service.

   - SIM cards can be found at various retail outlets and official stores.

• Nar SIM Card network coverage in Azerbaijan:

Baku and Absheron peninsula: Nar has 95% network coverage in Baku and Absheron, which includes all major cities and towns.

Central parts of all the regions of Azerbaijan (excluding Nakhchivan AR): Nar has 80% network coverage in the central parts of all the regions of Azerbaijan, excluding Nakhchivan AR.

Other regions: Nar has 50% network coverage in other regions of Azerbaijan.

Nar's network coverage is not as good as Azercell or Bakcell, but it is still good enough for most people. They have a wide network of 4G base stations in Baku and Absheron, and they are constantly expanding their coverage to other parts of the country.

• Airalo

   - Not an Azerbaijani mobile operator, but a global e-SIM provider.

   - Offers e-SIM cards that work in multiple countries, including Azerbaijan.

   - Convenient for tourists with e-SIM compatible devices.

   - Provides data plans that can be purchased and activated online.

Azerbaijan e-SIM Card

Azerbaijan had not officially launched e-SIM cards. However, plans and discussions for introducing e-SIM technology were underway in the country. An e-SIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip embedded directly into a mobile device, allowing users to switch between carriers without the need for a physical SIM card.

Benefits of e-SIM Card 

If eSIM technology has been implemented in Azerbaijan, the benefits of using an eSIM would include:

Convenience

 With eSIM, there's no need to physically insert or swap SIM cards when changing carriers or travelling internationally. Users can switch between multiple carriers and plans directly through their device settings.

More Space

eSIM eliminates the need for a physical SIM card slot, freeing up space in the device for other components or features.

Dual SIM Functionality

 Many eSIM-enabled devices can support both an eSIM and a physical SIM card simultaneously, allowing users to have two active numbers on one device.

Remote Activation

Users can remotely activate an e-SIM without having to visit a store, making it more convenient to get connected to a network.

Eco-friendly

As eSIM eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, it reduces plastic waste and the environmental impact associated with traditional SIM card production and disposal.

Enhanced Security

eSIM technology offers enhanced security features, making it more challenging for unauthorised access or SIM card cloning.

Buying a SIM Card in Azerbaijan

Buying a SIM card in Azerbaijan was a straightforward process. You could purchase a local SIM card from various mobile network operators, including Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. Here's a general overview of the process:

Choose a Mobile Operator

Research the available mobile network operators in Azerbaijan and choose the one that best suits your needs in terms of coverage, data plans, and pricing.

Visit a Store or Retailer

You can buy a SIM card from official stores and authorised retailers of the chosen mobile operator. Look for their outlets in major cities or at airports.

Provide Identification

To purchase a SIM card, you typically need to provide identification, such as your passport or other valid identification documents. This is a standard procedure to comply with local regulations.

Select a Plan

Once you have your SIM card, you can choose a prepaid or postpaid plan based on your usage requirements. These plans may include data, voice call minutes, and text messages.

SIM Activation

The retailer will help you activate the SIM card, or you may be required to follow instructions provided with the SIM card packaging.

Top-up or Recharge

For prepaid plans, you'll need to top up or recharge your SIM card with credit to use the services. This can be done through various methods like purchasing top-up cards or using mobile apps.

Best Places to Buy Azerbaijan SIM Cards for Tourists

Tourists visiting Azerbaijan could easily purchase SIM cards from various locations. Here are some of the best places to buy Azerbaijan SIM cards for tourists:

Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Major airports like the Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku often have kiosks or stores of local mobile operators where you can buy SIM cards immediately upon arrival. This is convenient as you can get connected right away.

Official Stores and Retailers

Visit the official stores and authorised retailers of the major Azerbaijani mobile operators like Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. These stores are commonly found in city centres and popular tourist areas.

Shopping Malls

Many shopping malls in Azerbaijan have stores of mobile operators where you can purchase SIM cards and get assistance with activation and plan selection.

Street Vendors and Small Shops

In busy tourist areas, you might come across street vendors or small shops selling SIM cards. While they can be convenient, it's essential to ensure they are authorised sellers to avoid any issues with the SIM card's legitimacy.

Online

Some mobile operators may offer the option to buy SIM cards online before your trip or upon arrival. This can be a convenient way to have a SIM card ready without searching for physical stores.

Remember to check for any ongoing promotions or special tourist packages offered by the mobile operators. These packages might include data, calls, and text messages tailored specifically for tourists, providing better value for money during your stay. Always carry your identification documents, as they are generally required for purchasing and activating a SIM card in Azerbaijan.

FAQS

 

• What are the pros and cons of each SIM card?

 

Azercell has the best network coverage and fastest data speeds in Azerbaijan, but it can be a bit pricey. Bakcell has good network coverage and competitive data plans, making it an affordable option. Nar offers some of the best value plans in Azerbaijan, but it has limited network coverage. Airalo is a virtual mobile operator that offers eSIMs for Azerbaijan, which means you can purchase and activate a SIM card online without having to go to a physical store.

 

• How can I purchase a SIM card in Azerbaijan?

 

You can purchase a SIM card in Azerbaijan at any mobile phone shop or airport. You will need to provide your passport and a small amount of cash (in Azerbaijani manat) to purchase a SIM card.

 

• How do I activate a SIM card in Azerbaijan?

 

To activate a SIM card in Azerbaijan, you will need to contact the mobile operator and provide them with your SIM card number and passport information. The mobile operator will then activate your SIM card and you will be able to start using it.

 

• What are the different types of SIM cards available in Azerbaijan?

 

There are two main types of SIM cards available in Azerbaijan: physical SIM cards and eSIMs. Physical SIM cards are the traditional type of SIM card that you insert into your phone. eSIMs are digital SIM cards that are embedded in your phone's firmware.

 

• Which type of SIM card should I get?

 

The type of SIM card you should get will depend on your phone and your needs. If your phone supports eSIMs, then an eSIM is a great option as it is more convenient and secure. If your phone does not support eSIMs, then you will need to get a physical SIM card.