Best eSIM providers and plans for Maldives in 2024
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Tired of constantly swapping SIM cards in your phone? Any frequent flyer will understand the hassle of getting a new SIM card whenever you head to a new country. Luckily, technology has evolved past the need for a physical SIM card for every new location you visit.
You can now use an eSIM to instantly access the mobile network of almost any country you visit. But with so many eSIMs out there, which one do you choose?
In this article, you’ll learn which eSIM is best for you if you’re heading to the Maldives. We’ll also cover some of the important factors you need to keep in mind when buying an eSIM and how you can get the most out of your trip to the Maldives with this cutting-edge tech.
Top 5 eSIMs for Maldives - my recommendation
- Saily - best overall eSIM for Maldives in 2024
- Airalo - budget-friendly eSIM provider in Maldives
- Jetpac - best plan variety eSIM for Maldives
- aloSIM - best eSIM for calling and texting from Maldives
- Nomad - fast Maldives eSIM provider
What to consider before buying an eSIM in the Maldives
Before you get an eSIM, it’s important to understand that there are specific factors you need to consider. Take a look at the key eSIM considerations below:
- Device compatibility - Not all devices are compatible with eSIM, so you need to confirm that your phone has this capability. The iPhone XR and newer devices can support eSIM, as can the Samsung S20 and newer.
- Coverage - Before committing to an eSIM provider, ensure it offers great Maldives coverage. Luckily, the Maldives are relatively small at 300km². Mobile coverage in the Maldives is pretty good, with 3G, 4G, and 5G representing 97.3% of mobile phone usage.
- Data plans - Plan ahead and consider your data usage for the duration of your stay in the Maldives. Based on your needs, go for the eSIM provider that offers the best (or most flexible) options.
- Activation process - Some providers may require more documentation than others, or some providers may take longer to activate your new eSIM.
While many of these attributes will be similar across most of the best eSIM providers, it’s worth paying attention and ensuring that your chosen provider meets your needs across each of these dimensions.
The best eSIMs for Maldives travel – my detailed list
I tested out numerous providers to narrow down the top five. From there, I took a deep dive into each provider to build the list and recommend the best eSIM provider for the Maldives. The list below will go into detail on each of the criteria I tested when deciding my top five list.
1. Saily - best overall eSIM for Maldives in 2024
| Coverage | 150+ countries |
| Plans in Maldives | 6 |
| Networks Supported | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Regional Plans | Yes |
Saily takes the top spot on my list for best Maldives eSIMs. It was made by the cybersecurity team behind NordVPN. Although Saily doesn't officially list the Maldives as an individually-supported country, but you can use the Asia regional eSIM instead. And, if you want even more detail about Saily, you can dive deep into our in-depth Saily review.
Plan Options. You can choose from six different plans, ranging from seven days to 180 days. As for data, you can get 1GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 50 GB, and 100 GB. The more data you opt for, the longer the validity.
Maldives Plans Pricing. Saily offers some flexibility in its plans. The plans start from $4.99, which gets you 1 GB for seven days. You can also get 3 GB ($12.49), 5 GB ($19.49), and 10 GB ($35.99) with 30 days validity.
Network Coverage. Saily uses Ooredoo, the most popular network provider in the Maldives. Depending on your location on the islands, you can get LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G services.
Activation Process. You can buy your eSIM package in advance and have it ready for your trip. Immediately before you travel, you can simply hit “Activate eSIM” in the Saily app, and you’re good to go.
Customer Support. Saily has great customer support staff (as expected with the Nord VPN team). The best way to get in touch is through the live chat feature, but there is also a handy FAQ section on the website.
2. Airalo - best budget-friendly eSIM provider in Maldives
| Coverage | 200+ countries and regions |
| Plans in Maldives | 2 |
| Networks Supported | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Regional Plans | Yes |
Airalo has been on the market for quite some time and has been a go-to eSIM provider for many years. This one is a reliable option if you’re looking for a Maldives eSIM that will get the job done without any fuss. To learn more about Airalo, you can also check out our comprehensive Airalo review.
Plan Options. You can get a 20 GB or a 30 GB plan for 30 days.
Maldives Plans Pricing. Their prices are $40 and $50. Considering the validity period and the data you get with each plan, it’s not far off the Saily pricing, and you’ll get great value for money.
Network Coverage. Airalo will be running on Ooredoo while you’re in the Maldives. The network gives you LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G service around the islands.
Activation Process. Airalo is known for its incredibly smooth and easy eSIM activation process. Once you’ve bought your new eSIM, you can activate it immediately and directly from the app.
Customer Support. With 24/7 customer support, live chat, and even a toll-free US number, Airalo is always ready to assist when needed. Airalo customer support is excellent and may even beat the rest of the providers on this list.
3. Jetpac - best plan variety eSIM for Maldives
| Coverage | 100+ countries |
| Plans in Maldives | 8 |
| Networks Supported | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Regional Plans | Yes |
Jetpac is a relatively new eSIM provider that is still growing and gaining popularity. It currently supports 100+ counties, and its standout benefit is free lounge access at the airport if you encounter flight delays. If you want to learn more about this and other travel perks, read our full Jetpac review. Otherwise, read on for a quick overview.
Plan Options. If it’s a pure variety of plan options you’re looking for, Jetpac is great. It offers eight different packages for the Maldives
Maldives Plans Pricing. The pricing on Jetpac is great as well. Even with the huge variety of plans, these packages are affordable. On top of that, the difference between each package is a small jump, so buying more data works out cheaper.
Network Coverage. Ooredoo is the network of choice for Jetpac, again offering you LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G coverage in the Maldives.
Activation Process. The activation process on Jetpac uses a scanned QR code to get your eSIM up and running.
Customer Support. Jetpac will respond to your calls for help through social media DMs. It might be an unusual channel for customer support, but it’s a quick and easy way to get in touch. Alternatively, head to the website or send an email.
4. aloSIM - best eSIM for calling and texting from Maldives
| Coverage | 175+ countries |
| Plans in Maldives | 7 |
| Networks Supported | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Regional Plans | Yes |
aloSIM is another great eSIM provider for the Maldives. The point of distinction from other providers is that this eSIM allows you to make phone calls and send text messages using a free Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) number through aloSIM’s sister app, Hushed. You can also learn more about this perk and aloSIM’s global plans in our in-depth aloSIM review.
Plan Options. Like Jetpac, aloSIM offers great variety with seven different plan options. You can even get a 100 GB plan for six months—the biggest and longest of all providers on this list.
Maldives Plans Pricing. The pricing on the seven plans is not too bad, either. The highest package, 100 GB over six months, costs $185, while the cheapest package costs just $5.
Network Coverage. aloSIM uses Oooredoo in the Maldives, giving you access to LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G.
Activation Process. After purchasing a package, aloSIM requires you to scan a QR code to install your eSIM.
Customer Support. With live chat and an email address, the aloSIM support team is easily accessible.
5. Nomad - fast Maldives eSIM provider
| Coverage | 170+ countries |
| Plans in Maldives | 1 |
| Networks Supported | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Regional Plans | Yes |
Nomad is an eSIM provider that offers packages in 170 countries worldwide. It has been a reliable option for frequent flyers who need access to the internet when they’re abroad. And if you want to dig deeper into Nomad’s global offering, check out our detailed Nomad review.
Plan Options. There is only one plan for the Maldives. This 1 GB seven-day option is a good option for a short trip but may be limiting for trips of longer durations.
Maldives Plans Pricing. Nomad’s singular Maldives plan is reasonably priced. For $20, you can get a 7-day, 1 GB plan. However, cheaper options exist, such as Saily.
Network Coverage. Nomad uses Ooredoo to connect your phone to the internet around the island. Connections are decent, with LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G available.
Activation Process. Activating the Nomad eSIM is simple. You can complete the entire process in the app by selecting your eSIM, purchasing a package, and activating it.
Customer Support. The customer support team is excellent if you need any help using Nomad. The in-app chat feature is a nice touch, and you can get some quick answers in the FAQ section. There’s also an email address you can use.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for Maldives
If you’re heading to the Maldives soon and need an eSIM, compare all the best options before committing. The table below will help you pick out the provider that best suits your needs in terms of pricing, plans, and features.
| Brand | Plan Duration | Data Sharing | Unlimited data | Calls | GB Per Plan | Support | Price |
| Saily | 7 Days, 30 Days, 90 Days, 180 Days | Yes | No | No, data-only SIM | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 50 GB, 100 GB | 24/7 Support, Live Chat, FAQ section | $4.99, $12.49, $19.49, $35.99, $95.99, $179.99 |
| Airalo | 30 Days | Yes | Yes | No, data-only SIM | 20 GB, 30GB | 24/7 Support [email protected]. US toll-free phone number: +1 (888) 870-2848 | $40, $50 |
| Jetpac | 4 Days, 7 Days, 30 Days | Yes | Yes | No, data-only SIM | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 15 GB, 20 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB | 24/7 Customer Support, Social Media, DMs [email protected] | $1, $11, $12, $22, $26, $28, $45, $65 |
| aloSIM | 7 Days, 15 Days, 30 Days, 90 Days, 180 Days | Yes | No | Yes, via the Hushed app VoIP number (free) | 1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 50 GB, 100 GB | 24/7 Customer Support, Live Chat [email protected] | $5, $9.50, $15, $20, $37, $100, $185 |
| Nomad | 7 Days | Yes | No | No, data-only SIM | 1 GB | In-app Chat [email protected], FAQ Section | $20 |
How I tested and ranked these eSIMs for Maldives
Finding the right eSIM for the Maldives is important. That’s why I set out some important criteria for reviewing the top five eSIM options in the Maldives. I tested each eSIM provider against the same criteria and ranked them based on their performance in these areas.
| Feature | Criteria |
| Coverage | Whether the provider's plans cover urban and rural areas extensively in the Maldives |
| Network connection | Whether the provider supports 4G and 5G networks, the speed and reliability of the connection, and how easy it is to connect |
| Compatibility | Whether the eSIM works with iOS and Android devices and its usability with devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops |
| Price | Affordability of the plans, transparency and straightforwardness in pricing, and whether the provider offers good value for money |
Coverage: The most important element of my testing was to ensure that the eSIM provider is available in the Maldives and has great coverage across the islands. I checked this with the Cybernews research team through coverage maps and on-the-ground testing to ensure a great signal.
Network connection: The eSIM has to have a great network connection. I checked this by performing speed tests to ensure a consistently stable, reliable, and fast connection.
Compatibility: An eSIM provider must be compatible with a wide range of smartphones. I confirmed this by testing with multiple devices to ensure wide compatibility.
Price: The prices – and the pricing structure – of the eSIM provider’s packages play a huge role in our ranking. We prioritize value for money and place a premium on transparency and straightforwardness in pricing. The last thing you want is a bunch of unpleasant pricing and service surprises from your mobile communication provider while traveling in the Maldives.
Do I need eSIM in the Maldives?
Yes, you definitely need an eSIM for the Maldives! You might think you’ll spend your days lounging in the sun or enjoying the tropical water. But you’ll still need a local SIM to make phone calls, send texts, or access the internet.
You will need data to book reservations, post content on social media, or navigate the islands with Google Maps. Roaming charges can be incredibly pricey, especially if you use social media apps that eat into your data package.
Pros and Cons of eSIM
While testing eSIM tech for the Maldives, I noticed that it’s far more convenient than traditional SIM cards. The eSIM was easy to install on my phone, and I could seamlessly switch between my two different cellular lines.
The advantages outweigh the disadvantages for most people and destinations as long as your device already has eSIM support.
Does my device support eSIM?
Not all devices support eSIM technology. If your device is from 2019 or older, there’s a good chance it supports eSIMs. Either way, we recommend that you check your phone’s official specifications to ensure that it supports eSIM technology. If your device supports eSIM but you aren’t using one yet, you might even consider converting your existing replaceable SIM to an eSIM for ease of use.
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of devices that support eSIM technology. For iPhones, the XR model (2018) and newer have eSIM technology, and for Samsung, you can use an eSIM in an S20 model (2020) or newer. You can learn more in our guides on using eSIM on iPhone or using an eSIM with your Samsung device.
How can I activate an eSIM data plan for my device in Maldives?
Depending on your device, you can take different steps to install your eSIM. However, each eSIM provider recommended above offers an app with a detailed guide and explanation to walk you through each step.
Alternatively, you can install the eSIM with a QR code. In this case, you must save the QR code to your phone and head to settings. Then go to Cellular & Data, select “Add eSIM,” and select “From QR Code.” Choose the correct QR code from your phone, and hit “Continue” to install the eSIM onto your phone.
With the eSIM installed on your device, you need to configure it correctly so you don’t accidentally use your standard SIM card in roaming mode. Go to your mobile service settings and find the eSIM you installed. Label it to indicate which SIM it is and help you choose the correct one during your trip to the Maldives.
Best eSIM for Maldives: My final verdict
The Maldives is all about luxury and relaxation. The last thing you want to do when visiting the gorgeous beaches and tropical waters is find a store to buy a SIM card. An eSIM is the fastest and most convenient way to get the most out of your time in the Maldives.
You can book your water sports, explore the islands with your maps, or Facetime your friends to share the experience without swapping SIM cards. Simply install an eSIM on your phone before you fly, and you’ll be good to go!
I reviewed the top eSIM providers and recommend Saily based on its excellent pricing, coverage, plan options, and customer support. However, there are tons of other options to choose from, so if Saily isn’t for you, try one of my top five eSIM providers to find the one that suits you best.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews:
FAQs
Does eSIM work in Maldives?
Yes, eSIMs will work in the Maldives. Make sure to choose an eSIM provider that has either Dhiraagu or Ooredoo in its network. As mentioned in my full review, there are some other important factors to remember before you decide which eSIM provider to use.
Which network is best in Maldives?
The Maldives has two main mobile networks: Dhiraagu and Ooredoo. Both networks are excellent, but user reviews show that Ooredoo is the best choice if you’re looking for the fastest and most reliable mobile network coverage.
Can I make calls and send messages with my Maldives eSIM?
No, most eSIM providers in the Maldives will provide data-only eSIMs, meaning you cannot make calls or send text messages. However, you can use VoIP apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or FaceTime instead. aloSIM also offers a free local VoIP number through its sister app, Hushed.
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