Frequently asked questions
Israel eSIM — questions answered
If something here is unclear, email hello@shalomsim.com and I'll update the page.
Will my home phone number still work?
Yes. eSIMs add a second line to your phone — they don't replace your home line. Your home number can still receive calls and SMS (you'll be roaming, which may have fees from your home carrier — turn off cellular data on the home line to avoid that). The Israel eSIM handles your data.
Do I need an Israeli phone number?
Probably not. eSIMs from Airalo and Holafly are data-only. You can use WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, Google Meet — anything internet-based. If you need to make local Israeli calls or receive Israeli SMS (banks, government), you'll want a physical Israeli SIM in addition. For 95% of tourists, the eSIM alone is enough.
Will it work the moment I land at Ben Gurion?
Yes, if you installed the eSIM before you landed. You don't need to do anything else — your phone connects automatically. If you bought after landing, use the free Ben Gurion WiFi to scan the QR.
Does it work in the Negev, Dead Sea, or Golan?
Yes. Both Cellcom (Airalo) and Pelephone (Holafly) have nationwide coverage. Expect occasional slow spots in remote desert canyons and parts of Masada, but no dead zones for normal tourism.
Does it work in the West Bank?
Patchy. Both eSIMs use Israeli networks, which have limited coverage in Palestinian-controlled cities. If you're touring Bethlehem, Hebron, or Jericho, expect intermittent service. A local Palestinian SIM (Jawwal) is more reliable there.
What about Sabbath and holidays?
Coverage doesn't change. Both networks operate 24/7 including Shabbat. You may notice slower customer support response Friday afternoon through Saturday evening if you need help.
What if I'm staying longer than 30 days?
Both providers sell up to 30-day plans, and both let you buy a new plan when the first expires. For students and olim staying 3+ months, we recommend starting with an eSIM for the first 10 days while you sort out a local prepaid SIM (Pelephone, Cellcom, Hot Mobile, or Golan Telecom — all under 100 ₪/month).
Can I top up mid-trip?
Airalo: yes, easily, in the app. Holafly: technically you'd buy a new plan since theirs is duration-based. We've never seen anyone need to top up Holafly given the unlimited model.
What's the refund policy?
Both providers refund if you haven't activated the eSIM within 30 days. Once you activate (download to your phone), refunds are at provider discretion. If something goes wrong, contact their support first — both are good about reissuing rather than refunding.
Why don't you recommend other providers?
The eSIM market has 100+ resellers. We tested the major ones and settled on Airalo and Holafly because they run their own infrastructure, have the strongest Israel-specific reviews, and offer the clearest pricing. If you want a third option, Saily (newer, sometimes cheaper) is a reasonable alternative — but we haven't tested it enough to recommend.
How does ShalomSim make money?
When you click through to Airalo or Holafly from this site and buy, we earn a small commission (typically 10%). It doesn't cost you anything extra — the price is the same as buying directly. We picked these two providers because they're the best for Israel, not because they pay best.