Choosing the best mobile operators in Tunisia can be difficult. This guide will help you to pick one.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Tunisia
1. Main Mobile Operators in Tunisia
Ooredoo is one of the largest mobile network operators in Tunisia.
Orange is the second largest operator in Tunisia with around 7 million subscribers.
Tunisie Telecom is the incumbent fixed line operator partially owned by the Tunisian government.
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Tunisia
- Lycamobile Tunisie – Uses Ooredoo’s network. Low-cost prepaid plans.
- Tunisiana Mobil – a Sister brand of Ooredoo focused on the youth market.
- Tunicell – Owned by Tunisie Telecom. Budget mobile brand.
- Smart Tunisie – Data-focused MVNO using Tunisie Telecom network.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Tunisia
Choosing the right mobile operator depends on your specific usage needs and requirements. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Network Coverage – Reliable 4G coverage both in major cities and remote areas is important for calls, texts and data usage anywhere in Tunisia.
- Data Packages – A range of plan options providing sufficient data at affordable prices catered to different budgets and usage amounts.
- Customer Service – 24/7 support through various channels like retail stores, call centers, social media and online help portals.
- Device Compatibility – The ability to purchase and activate SIM cards across all operating systems and phone brands universally.
By evaluating these key criteria, you can find the right operator based on your usage preferences and budget. Do some research upfront to make the best choice.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Tunisia – Detailed Comparison
Now let’s dive deeper into a detailed comparison of the major mobile operators in Tunisia – Tunisie Telecom, Ooredoo Tunisia, and Orange Tunisie.
Mobile Operators in Tunisia
| Operator | Coverage & Speeds | English Support | Prices & Plans | Other Factors |
| Ooredoo | Extensive 4G coverage including rural areas. Average 4G speeds of 10-20 Mbps. | Limited English support available. | Competitive prices. Plans starting at ~10 TND for 5GB. Postpaid plans with larger data available. | Widest retail presence with shops nationwide. |
| Tunisiel Telecom | Largest 4G network covering most major cities/towns. Average 4G speeds of 5-15 Mbps. | No official English support. | Slightly higher prices than competitors. Prepaid plans from ~15 TND for 10GB. | Government-owned so offers discounts for civil servants/students. |
| Orange | Well-developed 4G network in major cities/coastal areas. Average 4G speeds of 15-25 Mbps. | English language options on website/apps. | Premium prices but most reliable network performance. Plans from ~20 TND for 15GB. | An international brand so offers roaming benefits in other Orange countries. |
So in summary, while pricier, Orange stands out as the best operator due to reliably superior network speeds, coverage focused on major population centers, and international roaming advantages – making it the preferred choice for performance and convenience.
IV. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Mobile Operators in Tunisia?
Once you’ve chosen your mobile operator, here’s a quick guide on where to purchase your SIM card in Tunisia:
- Airports – Upon arrival, SIM cards for all operators can be purchased from kiosks and shops at Tunis-Carthage International Airport.
- Operator Stores – All operators have their own branded stores located in major cities and towns. This is usually the best place to get a SIM card and get set up on a plan.
- Convenience Stores – Larger convenience store chains like Magasin General sell SIMs and plans from all providers nationwide.
Purchasing a SIM card at Tunis-Carthage International Airport upon landing in Tunisia can be very convenient for travelers. The airport kiosks make it easy to get connected right away without having to search elsewhere.
V. Do Mobile Operators in Tunisia Offer eSIM?
eSIM (embedded SIM) is steadily rolling out globally, allowing smartphone users to activate mobile plans through a digital SIM profile. Here is the availability of eSIM among Tunisian operators:
- Ooredoo Tunisia: Ooredoo was the first operator to launch eSIM support in Tunisia in 2021. Customers can activate eSIM profiles online for postpaid plans.
- Orange: Orange Tunisie enabled eSIM capability on certain iPhone models in 2022. Both prepaid and postpaid eSIM activation is available online.
- Tunisie Telecom: As of 2022, Tunisie Telecom does not publicly offer eSIM activation on its website. Support may be available by contacting customer service.
Tunisia eSIM provides a convenient mobile data solution for tourists traveling to Tunisia. Rather than having to purchase a physical SIM card locally, visitors can set up an eSIM profile online before their trip.
Using the reliable Orange Tunisia network, Tunisia eSIM offer national 4G/LTE coverage for flexible data packages up to 20GB tailored to different needs. Let’s check their data plans:
Plan that may interest you
eSIM tips: Before purchasing your eSIM, please check eSIM-compatible devices list
VI. FAQs
What documents do I need to buy a SIM card in Tunisia?
You need a valid passport or Tunisian ID card to register a SIM card. Foreigners can purchase prepaid SIMs with just a passport. Postpaid contracts require residency papers like a work permit or rental contract.
Can I use my SIM card from Europe or US in Tunisia?
Yes, but expect to pay very high roaming charges if you don’t have a travel data package. Not recommended for more than very short trips. Purchase a local SIM card with a Tunisia operator instead.
Which operator has the fastest data speeds in Tunisia?
Ooredoo and Orange generally have faster 3G and 4G speeds compared to Tunisie Telecom. But this also depends on coverage in your area. Do some speed tests to verify.
What’s the difference between prepaid and postpaid mobile plans?
Prepaid plans let you pay upfront for data and minutes. Postpaid bills you monthly for usage. Postpaid requires a longer commitment and credit check but can have more bundled benefits.
Can I use a Tunisian SIM when traveling abroad?
Yes, but expect to pay roaming charges. Some operators have roaming packages to Europe & MENA region.
VII. Conclusion
Choosing the right mobile operators in Tunisia is crucial to getting good connectivity during your time. The major providers – Tunisie Telecom, Ooredoo, and Orange – each have their pros and cons.
Consider Tunisia eSIM to stay connected in Tunisia effortless for digital nomads and other visitors exploring the country.
