Will My Phone Work In Lebanon?

If you're travelling to Lebanon and want to stay connected, it's best to buy a local prepaid SIM card or an e-SIM card. This will save you from high roaming charges. You can either buy a SIM card online and have it delivered to your home address, or buy one in Lebanon. Buying a SIM card in Lebanon can be done at Beirut Airport or in a phone store in the city centre. However, SIM cards at the airport tend to be more expensive.

Registering your phone

When travelling to Lebanon, you must register your mobile device to access either of the two data networks in the country. This applies to phones, iPads, 3G modems, and any other device using the over-the-air data network. WiFi usage is not affected by this.

Registration can be done at the airport, or at the main office of Alfa or MTC (which is out of the area). There will be a desk with several people in blue shirts and a sign that says "register your phone". The process takes 5-10 minutes. They will take your phone and passport, print out some papers, and then have you sign a paper requesting registration. There is no fee for this process.

If you want to use a local (Alfa/MTC Touch) SIM card, you must register your phone. If you are using your own SIM card and want to use data roaming, you do not need to register your device.

To unlock your device, you must send a free SMS to 1014. Then, remove your SIM and insert the new one.

Buying a local SIM card

Where to Buy

You can buy a SIM card for Lebanon either before your trip or upon arrival. If you're buying a SIM card in Lebanon, you can do so at various mobile network stores, convenience stores, or authorised retailers.

Main Operators

There are two main operators in Lebanon: Alfa and Touch. Both are state-owned, but each is managed by a foreign telecom company. Touch is managed by the Kuwaiti Zain group and Alfa is managed by Egypt-based Orascom Telecom.

Buying a SIM Card with Alfa

Alfa is one of the largest and most popular operators in Lebanon, providing extensive coverage across the country. You can buy a SIM card from Alfa at their retail stores, kiosks, and authorised resellers. They offer various prepaid plans, including data, voice, and text services.

Buying a SIM Card with Touch

Touch is another prominent operator known for its competitive rates and reliable coverage. You can buy SIM cards from Touch at their stores, kiosks, and partner outlets. They provide flexible prepaid plans, including data packages and calling options, suitable for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

Benefits of Buying a Local SIM Card

• Local rates: Avoid expensive international roaming charges.
• Flexible plans: Choose from a variety of prepaid plans to suit your usage and budget.
• Reliable coverage: Both Alfa and Touch offer extensive network coverage across urban and rural areas.

Cost of a Prepaid SIM Card

The cost of a prepaid SIM card in Lebanon varies depending on the operator and the plan chosen. Generally, SIM cards are affordably priced, ranging from USD 5 to USD 20. Data plans start from around USD 10 for basic packages, with options for larger data allowances at higher prices.

ESIMs in Lebanon

ESIM technology is gradually gaining traction in Lebanon. If your device supports eSIM functionality, check with Alfa or Touch to see if they provide eSIM services. eSIMs offer the convenience of not requiring a physical SIM card, and they can be activated remotely.

Registration

As of 1 June 2013, you must register your mobile device to access either of the two data networks in the country. This can be done at the airport or by visiting the main office of Alfa or Touch. This applies even if you plan to use roaming without purchasing a local SIM card.

Passport Requirement

A passport is required to purchase a SIM card in Lebanon. You may also be contacted by the operator to verify your identity.

IMEI Registration

In 2018, the Lebanese government introduced a whitelist IMEI registration process to combat tax evasion. This affects those using a local SIM card for more than 90 days. Visitors using a local SIM card for less than 90 days and those on roaming plans are not affected.

Prepaid Plans and Pricing

Both Alfa and Touch offer similar prepaid data plans. As of June 2024, Alfa offers a $7 plan for 2 GB of data for 7 days, while Touch offers 10 GB of data for 2 weeks, including 100 local minutes and SMS for $13.

Best SIM Card for Lebanon

Traveltomtom recommends Touch as the best prepaid SIM card for tourists in Lebanon. They have the most extensive 4G/LTE network and good prepaid SIM card deals.

Buying a SIM Card at Beirut Airport

It is not advisable to purchase a SIM card at Beirut Airport, as the prices are significantly higher than those in the city centre.

Using roaming

If you're planning to travel to Lebanon and want to use your phone with roaming, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, check with your carrier to see if they offer roaming services in Lebanon. Some US carriers may not have good roaming deals for the country.

If you plan to use roaming, it's important to note that as of 1 June 2013, you must register your mobile device to access either of the two data networks in Lebanon. This can be done at the airport or by visiting the main office of Alfa or MTC. The registration process usually takes around 5-10 minutes, and you will need to provide your passport.

Keep in mind that using roaming can be expensive, and you may incur high charges. To avoid unexpected costs, it is recommended to enable Wi-Fi calling on your phone and only use your US number when connected to a Wi-Fi network.

Additionally, make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. If it is locked to your carrier, contact them to request a temporary travel unlock. This will allow you to purchase a local SIM card in Lebanon if needed.

Lastly, be aware of any customs fees that may apply if you bring an unlocked phone from outside Lebanon. These fees may apply after a certain number of days in the country.

Phone security

If you're travelling to Lebanon, it's important to take steps to ensure the security of your phone and the personal data stored on it. Here are some tips to help keep your device safe and protect your information:

Register Your Device

As of 1 June 2013, Lebanon requires all mobile devices to be registered to access either of the two data networks in the country. This can be done at the airport or by visiting the main office of Alfa or MTC. Registration is mandatory even if you plan to use roaming services without a local SIM card.

Protect Your Data with a VPN

When travelling, it's common to connect to open WiFi networks at airports, hotels, or cafes. However, these unprotected networks can leave your device vulnerable to malicious attacks and identity theft. To secure your information, use a high-quality Virtual Private Network (VPN) such as Hotspot Shield. A VPN encrypts your traffic, making it difficult for criminals on the same network to access your data.

Use a Screen Protector and a Protective Case

Invest in a high-quality screen protector and a sturdy phone case to protect your phone from scratches, drops, and other physical damage. LifeProof and Taktik are popular options that offer excellent protection for both Apple and Android phones.

Avoid Keeping Your Phone in Your Back Pocket

Pickpocketing is a common issue, especially in certain parts of Europe. To reduce the risk of phone theft, avoid keeping your phone in your back pocket. Instead, keep it in a zippered pocket of your purse or day bag, or in your front pocket if you need to have it on your person.

Activate Passwords or Biometric Protection

Password-protect your device to safeguard your data and make it harder for thieves to access your information. Use strong and unique passwords or, even better, enable biometric identification like a fingerprint swipe if your phone supports it.

Don't Leave Your Phone Unattended

Never leave your phone unattended, whether it's on a restaurant table or in your hotel room. Always keep it locked safely in the hotel safe when you don't need it.

Turn On Find My Phone

Before your trip, enable the "Find My Phone" feature on your device. This will help you locate, lock, or remotely erase your phone in case it gets lost or stolen. Additionally, turn on "Send Last Location" (for iPhones) to automatically send the phone's location to iCloud when the battery is critically low.

Check With Your Carrier

Contact your phone carrier before your trip to understand their policies on lost or stolen devices. Some carriers may provide expedited replacement phones or reimburse you for repairs done while travelling. Additionally, if your phone is insured, you will still be covered even if your carrier doesn't provide replacements during travel.

Display Emergency Contact Information on the Lock Screen

Set your lock screen photo or wallpaper to display your alternate phone number or email address. This increases the chances of someone contacting you if your phone is lost.

Get Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers lost or stolen phones. However, keep in mind that insurance claims may be unsuccessful if you are careless with your phone, such as leaving it unattended. To make a successful insurance claim, you will typically need to provide proof of ownership, a police report, and evidence of theft or forced entry.

Phone usage in Lebanon

As of 1 June 2013, you must register your mobile device to be able to access either of the 2 data networks in the country. This can be done at the airport or at the main office of Alfa or MTC. This applies to all devices using the over-air data network, including phones, iPads, and 3G modems.

Buying a Local SIM Card

If you want to buy a local SIM card, it is recommended to wait until you get to the city center and go to a Touch store, as the SIM cards sold at Beirut Airport are overpriced. A Touch prepaid SIM card costs $13 USD and gives you 10 GB of data for 2 weeks, including 100 local minutes and SMS. An Alfa Lebanon prepaid SIM card costs $12 USD: $7 USD for the new line and $5 for a plan that gives you 2 GB of data for 7 days (VAT excluded).

Using an International SIM Card

If you would prefer to use an international SIM card, SimOptions is the only provider that sells physical prepaid SIM cards for Lebanon. However, this option is extremely overpriced, as you only get 1 GB of data for $49.90 USD.

Using an e-SIM Card

As of June 2024, it is possible to use an e-SIM card in Lebanon, which can be purchased from an official Alfa or Touch store. The major benefit of e-SIM cards is that they can be arranged online in just a couple of clicks, so you can be online as soon as your plane lands without having to pay high roaming charges. However, it is important to make sure that your phone is e-SIM compatible before ordering an e-SIM card.

Using WiFi Calling

If you want to keep your current phone number connected, you can enable WiFi calling in your phone settings and make sure you don't take your phone out of your apartment, so you don't pay any roaming charges.

Frequently asked questions