Mongolia · Telecom, Internet & Apps

Unitel

Unitel is one of Mongolia's main mobile operators; tourist SIMs with data are sold at kiosks in the arrivals hall of Chinggis Khaan airport and activated on the spot with a passport.

What it helps with

Internet on arrivalSIM in the arrivals hall.
Trips to the countrysideCoverage in aimag centres.
A local numberFor drivers and camps.

About Unitel:

Tourist packages are data-focused and usually cost around USD 10–20 for a couple of weeks. Unitel is known for the widest coverage in rural and remote areas, which suits overland trips. Outside aimag centres the signal is patchy or absent, and public Wi-Fi is rare beyond Ulaanbaatar. Top-ups are sold in shops, kiosks and in the operator's app.

Key Features:

Tourist SIM: Data packages for 1–2 weeks.
At the airport: Kiosk in arrivals, activated on the spot.
App: Balance and packages.
Home internet: For residents.

How to Get Started:

Bring your passport to the kiosk in airport arrivals.
Choose a tourist data package.
Install the app to check the balance.
Top up in shops or in the app.

Before you use it

Sign-up: Bring your passport: SIM cards are registered at purchase.
Limits: Between aimag centres there is often no signal; tell your camp or driver your route.

Local ID needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Unitel work with a foreign bank card in Mongolia?: Not reliably - a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
Is Unitel available in English?: Not officially - the interface is mainly in the local language.
Do I need a local phone number to use Unitel?: No, an international phone number generally works for Unitel.
Do I need local ID or residency for Unitel?: Yes, Unitel requires local ID or residency status.
Where can I use Unitel?: iOS · Android · Web
How much does Unitel cost?: Tourist packages about USD 10–20; prices in tugrik