Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is the main airport in Jordan. As a visitor arriving at Queen Alia International Airport, getting a local SIM card for your phone is highly recommended so you can have cellular and data access during your stay in Jordan. This guide provides helpful information for getting a SIM card at Queen Alia International Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Queen Alia International Airport
There are several options for purchasing a SIM card at Queen Alia International Airport:
- Cellular Provider Kiosks: The main cellular providers in Jordan—including Zain, Umniah, and Umniah—have kiosks located in the arrivals area of the airport terminal. These kiosks sell SIM cards with varying data packages. Prices and data amounts will differ depending on the provider. The kiosks accept cash or credit card. Sales representatives speak English and can assist with questions.
- Airport Convenience Stores: There are small convenience stores located throughout the airport that sell SIM cards from various Jordanian providers. Cards are available with pay-as-you-go credit or fixed data packages. Stores accept cash only. Sales clerks may have limited English abilities.
- Vending Machines: Some cellular providers have vending machines that dispense SIM cards in the airport. These allow you to easily purchase a SIM card by inserting cash, without interacting with an employee. However, vending machines do not allow you to ask questions or get setup assistance.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to compare packages, prices, and networks to find the right provider and plan for your needs in Jordan. Also confirm the sales clerk or machine can set up the SIM card and activate service for you on the spot, before leaving the airport.
II. Jordan SIM Card Options and Costs
When purchasing a SIM card from a provider kiosk or airport store in Jordan, you’ll find prices vary depending on data amounts and network speeds:
| Operator | SIM Option | Price (USD) | Data | Validity |
| Zain | Shahameh 60 Mix | ~$11 | 8 GB | Monthly |
| Shahameh 16 Mini | ~$9 | 4 GB | Monthly | |
| 10 JOD data pack | ~$14 | 18 GB daytime + 14 GB nighttime | Monthly | |
| Broadband 4G pack | ~$14 | 2 GB | 30 days | |
| Umniah | Umniah 7 Smart | ~$13 | 12 GB | Monthly |
| Umniah 9 Smart | ~$16 | 22 GB | Monthly | |
| 500 MB data pack | ~$1.40 | 500 MB | 7 days | |
| 1 GB data pack | ~$4 | 1 GB | 30 days | |
| Umniah | Umniah 2 | ~$4 | 1 GB | Monthly |
| Umniah 5 | ~$4 | 1 GB | Monthly | |
| Umniah 6 | ~$11 | 3 GB | Monthly | |
| 2 GB data add-on | ~$7 | 2 GB | 30 days |
When purchasing your SIM card, be sure to clarify exactly what is included in the plan you choose—like how much data, how long it lasts, what network access is included, fees for extra use, etc. Getting all the details upfront can prevent surprises later.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Queen Alia International Airport
To ensure the process of getting a SIM card at Queen Alia International Airport goes smoothly, there are a few tips for being prepared:
- Bring an Unlocked Phone – Your smartphone needs to be unlocked from your home carrier’s network in order to use a foreign SIM card abroad. Contact your provider in advance to unlock your phone.
- Have Passport Available – When purchasing almost any products or services in Jordan, a copy of your passport will be required for verification, security, and potential tax refund purposes. So be ready to show your passport when buying a SIM card at the airport.
- Know Your Cellular Preferences – Decide if you want a provider with more comprehensive nationwide access or one that offers cheaper service rates. Also consider data usage needs so you select the best value data plan.
- Obtain Local Currency in Advance – Although some airport kiosks may accept credit cards or US dollars, it’s best to acquire some Jordanian dinar (JOD) currency before your arrival. ATMs and money exchanges at Queen Alia have unfavorable rates. Arriving with JOD already in hand makes a SIM card purchase and cab ride to your hotel much smoother.
- Bring Small Bills – If you do need to exchange more money upon arrival, bring $20 and $50 USD bills and request change in smaller JOD notes. Larger JOD bills may not be accepted when making small purchases.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Queen Alia International Airport
Instead of getting a traditional SIM card at Queen Alia International Airport during your Jordan visit, you may want to consider an electronic eSIM before you arrive at Queen Alia International Airport. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is electronically installed in compatible smartphones.
Benefits of eSIM
- Convenience of activation before departure
- Avoid hassle of finding and purchasing SIM card upon airport arrival
- Flexibility to change plans or add local data as needed
- No physical SIM card to obtain, insert and protect
Providers Offering – Esimjordan.com
You should research options for eSIM service and prices in advance to see if this technology is a good fit. eSIMs allow you to easily connect to local networks as soon as you arrive in Jordan.
Switch Seamlessly. See More with eSIM
V. FAQs
Can I use my regular SIM card from back home in Jordan?
Roaming charges will apply from foreign providers, making long-term use very expensive. Getting a local Jordan SIM is much cheaper.
Can I purchase a SIM card outside the airport upon arrival?
Yes, SIM cards can be purchased at cell phone provider stores in Amman and other Jordanian cities. But airport kiosks offer convenience right upon arrival.
How long does it take to activate my SIM card?
Providers at airport kiosks can activate SIM cards and plans immediately with the proper verification and payment. The process only takes a few minutes in most cases.
Can I get SIM cards on arrival for multiple mobile devices?
Yes, you can purchase multiple SIM cards from airport kiosks for all compatible unlocked phones, tablets, mobile hotspots, and other connected gear you brought on your trip. Be sure to clarify this before buying.
VI. Final Words
Getting a Jordan SIM card at Queen Alia International Airport allows visitors to conveniently access cellular voice service and mobile data on the go. Compare the main provider’s options for rates and packages and come prepared with proper currency, a passport, and an unlocked device. Alternatively, also consider the emerging eSIM technology for even more seamless connectivity. Staying connected via a local SIM or eSIM in Jordan keeps travel logistics flowing smoothly.
