Real talk? If you are planning to rely on your hotel WiFi in Hurghada to work, stream Netflix, or even just upload a photo… stop right there. Don’t do it.
I’ve lived here 15 years. I love this city. But the hotel internet? It’s usually… well, let’s just say “fragile.”
You’re watching a movie, the hero is about to jump off the cliff, and *buffer*. The spinning wheel of death. Or worse, you pay $10/day for “Premium WiFi” that works exactly as slowly as the free one in the lobby.
So, what’s a digital nomad (or just an Instagram addict) to do? Get a local SIM card. Period. It’s cheap, it’s fast, and it works in the middle of the Red Sea.
⚡ The “Cheat Sheet” (Which Carrier?)
In a rush? Here is the 10-second summary so you can get back to packing.
| Carrier | Best For… | My Honest Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Vodafone | Everything (City & Sea) | The King. Best 4G coverage everywhere. |
| Orange | Desert Safaris & El Gouna | Very strong rival. Sometimes better in remote spots. |
| Etisalat | City Center / Price | Good speed in town, weaker on boat trips. |
| WE (Telecom Egypt) | Residential Internet | Avoid for tourist SIMs. Coverage can be spotty. |
📱 Where to Buy? (Airport vs. Shop)
This is where everyone gets stressed. Do you buy at the chaotic airport kiosk or wait?
The Airport Kiosks
Pros: Immediate internet. They set it up for you right there.
Cons: A bit more expensive (“Airport Tax”). Long queues if 3 planes land at once.
Verdict: Do it. Saving $2 isn’t worth wasting 2 hours of your holiday hunting for a shop later.
The City Shops
Pros: Official rates. More package options.
Cons: You need your passport. Staff might not speak perfect English. You have no Google Maps until you find it!
Seriously, just buy it at the airport. You land, you grab your luggage, you see the Vodafone/Orange booth. Give them your phone and passport, pay (usually in Euros/Dollars or cash EGP), and walk out connected.
🌊 Coverage Test: Sea vs. Desert
I spend half my life on boats and the other half in the desert. Here is what I’ve noticed.
On the Red Sea (Boat Trips/Diving)
Vodafone wins here. I swear, I was 15km offshore near Giftun Island, updating Instagram stories. Orange is decent, but Vodafone seems to have stronger masts directed towards the water.
In the Desert (Safari)
Orange is the surprise king of the desert. If you are doing a Sunset Safari near the mountains, Orange often holds a signal when Vodafone drops to ‘E’.
❓ FAQ: Questions Tourists Ask Me
🤔 How much data do I need?
For 1 week? Get 10GB-20GB. Maps and heavy Instagram video usage eat data fast. It’s cheap, so over-buy to be safe.
🏨 Is Hotel WiFi truly that bad?
Yes. Especially in the evenings when everyone returns from the beach. 4G is 10x faster.
🆔 What documents do I need?
Passport ONLY. Copies specific to your entry visa are sometimes asked for, but usually just the passport page.
🚫 Are VoIP calls blocked?
WhatsApp Calls sometimes struggle on mobile data due to regulations. Usage of a VPN handles this perfectly. Texting works 100% fine.
🏆 Salem’s Connectivity Verdict
Don’t rely on the hotel. Don’t stress looking for a shop in town.
Step 1: Land.
Step 2: Walk to the Vodafone booth.
Step 3: Buy 20GB. Enjoy your holiday.
P.S. Need cheap flights to get here? Check Aviasales before you book.