Mobile operators in Jordan provide mobile data services to millions of people in the country and tourists. With so many classic offers and other virtual mobile operators to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your needs. This comprehensive guide explores the top mobile operators in Jordan, including basic information on availability, data speed, pricing and more to help you choose the right operator.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Jordan
1. Main Mobile Operators in Jordan
There are three major mobile network operators (MNOs) that hold licenses to build and operate wireless networks across Jordan: Zain, Orange and Umniah
| Company | Ownership | Year Established | Subscribers | Mobile Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Jordan | Subsidiary of Orange S.A. (Jordan) | 1999 | Over 5.7 million | 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, 5G, Mobile internet, Calls/SMS, Mobile money, Value-added services |
| Zain Jordan | Subsidiary of Zain Group (Kuwait) | 1995 | Over 6.5 million | 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, 5G, Mobile internet, Calls/SMS, Mobile money, Value-added services |
| Umniah | Public Shareholding Company | 2005 | Over 3.2 million | 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE, Mobile internet, Calls/SMS, Mobile money, Value-added services |
These three companies have built extensive 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE networks covering most of the populated areas in Jordan with over 90% population coverage combined. They also continue to invest in network upgrades to support the growing demand for mobile data services.
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Jordan
In addition to the main MNOs, there are several mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that provide cell phone service in Jordan by renting access to the major networks:
- Friendi Mobile
- Virgin Mobile
- Renna Mobile
These operators can offer more flexible no-contract plans and options though availability and network speeds rely heavily on their host networks of Zain, Orange, and Umniah.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Jordan
You can depends on a few key factors to choose the right mobile operators in Jordan:
- Network Coverage & Reliability – The most important thing is to have a consistently strong network path – researching coverage maps and checking signal strength in the areas you frequent is essential. Rural access can vary greatly among providers.
- Data Speeds & Performance – As mobile data usage continues to improve, 3G/4G speed comparisons will become increasingly important – with OpenSignal, Ookla Speedtest and others providing up-to-date insights into real-world speeds.
- Cost & Plan Options – Price and prepaid vs. prepaid. monthly schedule choices can vary significantly depending on application needs. It is advisable to compare Jordan professional prices with your unique needs.
- Customer Service Reputation – Asking community members and friends about their experience with billing, technical support and store representation allows you to choose a trusted provider.
From these aspects, you can choose the best fit Jordan mobile operator for your specific usage.
Knowing more about Buying Jordan SIM Card for Tourists
III. Best Mobile Operators in Jordan – Detailed Comparison
The analysis of the key metrics of top providers in Jordan reveals the key strengths of Zain, Orange and Umniah to match your ideal operator criteria:
| Operator | Coverage & Speeds | English Support | Prices & Plans (USD) | Other Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orange | Extensive 4G coverage for 97% of population. Launching 5G in major cities. Average 4G speeds 15-25Mbps. | Good English customer support through call centers and online. | Prepaid plans around $14-21 for 30 days. | Largest retailer network for purchasing sims. |
| Zain | Wide 4G coverage including remote areas Average 4G speeds 12-20Mbps. | Adequate online/app support in English but limited call center support. | Prepaid plans $15.3-41.2 for 1 week-3 months. | Strong network known for reliability. |
| Umniah | Largest network footprint but some rural 4G blackspots. Average 4G speeds 8-15Mbps. | Minimal English online/app support. Arabic only call center. | Prepaid plans $8.5-11.3 for 1 month with large data. | Occasional network congestion issues reported. |
When weighing these high-level pros and cons, your Jordan location and usage patterns will determine whether Zain, Orange or Umniah is positioned as the best match.
Unlock more insights on: Data Roaming in Jordan: #1 Helpful Guide for Travelers
IV. Where to Buy SIM Card from Jordan Mobile Operators?
Once you’ve compared the operators and selected the right Jordan provider for your mobile usage, here is a quick guide on where to easily obtain your SIM card:
- Zain, Orange and Umniah Stores: The most reliable option with wide availability in cities and towns across Jordan is visiting an official branded store or kiosk for purchasing and setting up new SIM cards along with data plans.
- Queen Alia International Airport (AMM): Jordan’s main airport has booths and vending machines conveniently located in the Arrivals area for all three major operators, allowing residents and visitors to get connected upon landing in Amman.
- Local Mobile Shops: Independent, unauthorized dealers will readily sell SIM cards for the various operators at prices often slightly above official rates. Verify proper activation and data bundles are enabled if going this unofficial shop route.
Regardless of channel, having a photocopy of your passport and Jordan visa along with required cash, credit or debit card is generally needed to register and pay for your new Jordan SIM.
V. Do Mobile Operators in Jordan Offer eSIM?
eSIM profiles that are remotely downloaded using QR codes to your phone rather than physical nano-SIM cards – are just starting to roll out amongst some Jordan mobile carriers:
- Jordan eSIM, with experience in offering eSIM in more than 200 countries and territories, you will have 3GB for $27.8 to get a better data experience than ever.
- Orange Jordan – As of 2022, launched eSIM functionality for iPhone users on eligible monthly contract plans. Still restricted from most prepaid packages.
- Zain – Introduced eSIM in 2022 for their prepaid plans, giving users the ability to remotely activate mobile service.
- Umniah – Yes, appearing focused currently on network expansion goals.
So eSIM availability is more and more popular in Jordan, with Orange leading as the only provider with commercial support rather than small-scale pilots. Since even most newer phones sold locally still rely on standard SIM cards, broader eSIM adoption by Jordan operators remains a work in progress for the next few years until iPhone and Android support is more prevalent regionally. Visitors to Jordan are advised to acquire a regular SIM card for service.
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VI. FAQs
Are prepaid SIM cards available from all mobile operators in Jordan?
Yes, Zain, Orange and Umniah all offer prepaid options allowing short-term flexibility without postpaid contracts. Pricing and data bundles vary so comparing best deals is key.
Can tourists purchase SIM cards in Jordan?
Visitors can readily obtain 35-day SIM cards from Jordanian operators by showing passport photocopies as identification during the registration process when buying a SIM. Longer multi-month validity requires residency permits.
Do Jordanian operators allow mobile number porting between networks?
Mobile number portability (MNP) is available in Jordan since 2007. Customers can switch amongst Zain, Orange and Umniah while keeping the same phone number through standardized porting processes submitted by new operator.
Are quad or triple-play bundles of mobile, home broadband, TV and landline offered?
Yes, operators like Orange Jordan and Zain offer discounted bundles combining mobile service with Fiber or ADSL home internet from partner ISPs along with TV and landline options. Umniah has more limited quad bundle availability currently.
VII. Conclusion
Jordan boasts modern infrastructure across leading operators Zain, Orange and Umniah that continue pushing fast 4G upgrades and competitive consumer plus business plans. By matching coverage and speeds to usage patterns while evaluating prepaid data or monthly rates that fit spending limits, selecting your best fit mobile operators in Jordan is readily achievable whether visiting short-term or residing longer term.
