Lebanon has a compact but reliable mobile network ecosystem that serves both residents and visitors. Despite economic challenges, mobile connectivity remains essential, especially for travelers, digital nomads, and business users. This guide covers prepaid SIM cards in Lebanon, including Alfa, Touch, and Actel, with coverage, prices, data plans, and tourist options.
Basics Information
Country: Lebanon
ISO Code: LB
Calling Code: +961
Main Mobile Operators: Alfa, Touch
MVNO: Actel
Network Technologies: 2G, 3G, 4G LTE
5G: Limited trials (not commercially widespread)
SIM Types: Nano, Micro, Standard, eSIM (limited)
Availability
Prepaid SIM cards are widely available across Lebanon, especially in Beirut, Tripoli, Sidon, Tyre, and tourist areas. Registration is mandatory, and activation is usually instant.
Where to Buy
Official operator stores (Alfa, Touch)
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport
Authorized mobile shops
Supermarkets & kiosks
Online resellers (limited)
💡 Tourists should buy from official stores to avoid registration issues.
Supported Frequencies
Mobile Network Frequencies in Lebanon
Technology
Frequency Bands
2G (GSM)
900 / 1800 MHz
3G (UMTS)
2100 MHz
4G (LTE)
Band 3 (1800), Band 7 (2600), Band 20 (800)
✔️ Most unlocked global smartphones work perfectly in Lebanon.
Coverage & Speed
Operator
Coverage
Average 4G Speed
Rural Coverage
Alfa
Nationwide
10–30 Mbps
Good
Touch
Nationwide
10–35 Mbps
Very Good
Actel
Touch Network
8–25 Mbps
Good
At a Glance Comparison
Feature
Alfa
Touch
Actel
Network
Own
Own
Touch
Prepaid
Yes
Yes
Yes
Tourist SIM
Yes
Yes
Limited
Unlimited Data
Yes
Yes
Yes
eSIM
Limited
Limited
No
Best For
Balanced use
Data users
Budget users
Biometric User Registration
✔️ Mandatory for all SIM cards
Required:
Passport or Lebanese ID
In-store biometric verification
SIM linked to identity
Device Registration
IMEI registration is automatic
Unregistered or blacklisted devices may lose service
Tourists usually face no issues
SIM Card Price
Operator
Starter SIM Price
Alfa
Low–Mid range
Touch
Low–Mid range
Actel
Budget-friendly
(Prices vary due to currency fluctuations)
Top-Up Methods
Scratch cards
Operator stores
Mobile apps
USSD recharge
Online recharge platforms
Alfa Prepaid SIM Cards
Alfa is one of Lebanon’s two state-owned mobile operators, known for stable coverage.
Prepaid Plans – Data Add-Ons
Data
Validity
1 GB
7–30 days
5 GB
30 days
10 GB
30 days
20 GB
30 days
Alfa SIM Card Unlimited Data
Plan
Speed Policy
Validity
Unlimited Lite
Fair-use
Daily
Unlimited Monthly
Speed-capped
30 days
Alfa Feature Packages
Feature
Availability
International Calls
Yes
Roaming Add-ons
Yes
Night Data
Yes
Social Media OffersAlfa
App
Included
WhatsApp
Yes
Facebook
Yes
Instagram
Yes
Messenger
Yes
Alfa Data-Only SIM
Available for tablets & routers
No voice/SMS
Ideal for hotspots
Touch Prepaid SIM Cards
Touch is known for slightly faster data speeds and better rural coverage.
Prepaid Plans – Data Add-Ons
Data
Validity
2 GB
7–15 days
6 GB
30 days
12 GB
30 days
25 GB
30 days
Touch Unlimited Data SIM
Plan
Fair Use
Validity
Unlimited Daily
Yes
24 hrs
Unlimited Monthly
Yes
30 days
Touch Data Feature Packages
Feature
Included
Video Streaming
Yes
Night Browsing
Yes
International Roaming
Yes
Social Media PackagesTouch
Platform
Included
WhatsApp
Yes
Facebook
Yes
Instagram
Yes
TikTok
Selected plans
Touch Data-Only SIM
Tablets & MiFi routers
Business & personal use
Actel Prepaid SIM (MVNO)
Actel operates as a virtual mobile operator using Touch’s network.
Prepaid SIM cards in Lebanon remain the most cost-effective and reliable way to stay connected. Touch is ideal for heavy data users, Alfa offers balanced nationwide coverage, and Actel is a solid budget MVNO. Tourists can also rely on international eSIM providers for instant access. Choosing the right SIM ensures smooth navigation, communication, and online access throughout Lebanon.
