One of the leading telecommunications providers in Sri Lanka is Dialog SIM card, commonly known as Dialog. In this article, we will explore Dialog’s SIM card options and their newly introduced eSIM technology for tourists visiting Sri Lanka.

Dialog SIM Card

I. Quick Facts About Dialog

It is the largest telecommunication company in Sri Lanka which is called Dialog Axiata PLC. Established in 1993, it provides mobile, broadband, and television services. Dialog Axiata is an offshoot of Axiata Group Berhad, a large Malaysian multi-national telecoms group.

Here are some quick facts about Dialog Sri Lanka:

  • Founded: 1993
  • Headquarters: Colombo, Sri Lanka
  • Parent company: Axiata Group Berhad
  • Market share: 41.7% (mobile)
  • Employees: 5,700+
  • Services: Mobile voice and data, Fixed broadband, Television, Enterprise solutions
Dialog - Mobile Operator in Sri Lanka
Dialog – Mobile Operator in Sri Lanka

II. Why Dilalog When You’re Exploring Sri Lanka – Coverage and Speed

Mobile network coverage and speed can be viewed as key components one must look out for when choosing a mobile network provider in Sri Lanka.

1. Dialog Coverage in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Mobile Operators Coverage
Sri Lanka Mobile Operators Coverage

Dialog takes the lead as the best mobile network operator in Sri Lanka according to Opensignal July 2023 Mobile Network Experience Report.

  • Strong availability: In terms of the availability metric, dialog users scored 92% which means a substantial signal strength as well as coverage within the country.
  • Consistency: Users of the dialogue had always good quality of the mobile network and scored 50.1% in the Consistent Quality parameter. As a result, they could safely use popular mobile apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and others without hindrance.

According to Opensignal’s data, Dialog has the most reliable mobile network in Sri Lanka overall. They have high speed, they are available, and they offer good quality, thus this gives consumers who want to perform and be reliable.

2. Dialog Speed

Sri Lanka Mobile Operators Speed
Sri Lanka Mobile Operators Speed

As reported by the July 2023 Mobile Network Experience Report for Sri Lanka prepared by Opensignal, Dialog Axiata PLC (Dialog) comes out tops when it comes to the category of mobile network speed.

Here’s a breakdown of Dialog’s key achievements:

  • Fastest Download Speed: Users of Dialog are reported to experience the highest average download speeds in the Sri Lankan market with a mark of 12.8 Mbps, 1.9 Mbps higher than the second-placed Mobitel (10.9 Mbps).
  • Fastest Upload Speed: Similarly, on the upload speeds, Dialog also dominates with an average rate of 4.8Mbps which is 1 Mbps more than Mobitel (3.8 Mbps).
  • Overall Speed Leader: Dialog’s higher download and upload speed make it the top-rated mobile network speed experience operator in Sri Lanka.

Finally, Dialog Axiata PLC takes the lead in mobile speed in Sri Lanka. Their unwavering show of efficiency, steady network upgrades, and wider coverage continue to make them a reliable and fast-moving provider of a mobile network for customers in Sri Lanka.

III. Dialog Connectivity Options for Travelers to Sri Lanka

Dialog Axiata PLC is one of the largest and most reliable mobile network operators in Sri Lanka. They offer a variety of connectivity options for travelers, including:

Type Description
Tourist SIM Card A prepaid SIM card specifically designed for tourists. It offers a range of data packages, local calls, and international call options.
eSIM A virtual SIM card that can be downloaded and activated on a smartphone, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.
Public Wi-Fi Over 2500 Wi-Fi hotspots located around the country.

While all options allow connectivity, buying a local Dialog SIM/eSIM provides the best value as it is very affordable, easy to set up, offers the fastest speeds on Dialog’s mobile network, and allows flexibility. It is therefore the most convenient and economical solution for travelers staying in Sri Lanka for an extended period.

IV. Best Dialog SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Dialog offers several SIM card options for tourists, each with its own set of features and costs, best for Casual tourists who want a simple, affordable option with generous data and basic calling/messaging.

Dialog Prepaid Plans Price (USD) Data Local Calls Messages Validity Addition Total Cost (USD)
Dialog Tourist Plan Rs.2,450/~$7.5 50GB - - 30 days Extra Data Usage charged at Rs 0.3 + Tax per MB ~$0.7 to Reload balance (can be used to call or SMS any local network) ~$7.5

You can get a FREE Dialog Prepaid SIM from the Dialog counter at the airport. If you buy from retail Outlets Islandwide, you need to buy a Rs.150/~$0.5 physical SIM and top up the Tourist Plan.

V. Does Dialog Support eSIM?

Yes, Dialog supports eSIM technology for both new and existing customers, also foreigners. They offer eSIM support for:

  • New connections: You can visit a Dialog outlet and request an eSIM connection.
  • Existing connections: You can convert your existing physical SIM to an eSIM online.

Consider using Dialog eSIM from the #1 Sri Lanka eSIM provider – esimsrilanka.com which offers diverse eSIM plans for any traveling goals. Here is what makes esimsrilanka.com stand out:

  • Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data packages best suited to your goals.
  • Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspects by collaborating with major Sri Lanka mobile operators so that visitors can get a fast and reliable connection during their travel.
  • Top-notch Customer Service: They offer 24/7 customer help so that you can get assistance if needed.
  • Competitive Prices: Their eSIMs are affordably priced, offering excellent value for money

Find the best options for your trip below:

Plans that may interest you

Sri Lanka eSIM 7 Days Plan
Sri Lanka eSIM 7 Days Plan
From $7.90
Sri Lanka eSIM 30 Days Plan
Sri Lanka eSIM 30 Days Plan
From $16.50

VI. Where Can You Buy a Dialog SIM Card and eSIM?

For travelers or digital nomads going to Sri Lanka, being able to purchase a SIM card from the major carrier Dialog is key. But where exactly can you obtain one? Where Can You Buy a Dialog SIM Card and eSIM?

1. Where to Buy Dialog SIM for Sri Lanka

There are a few easy options available for purchasing a Dialog SIM card when visiting Sri Lanka:

  • At the Airport: You can purchase a Dialog SIM card from the counters located near the baggage claim area or arrival hall in the main international airports in Sri Lanka – Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (Hambantota), and Kankesanthurai Airport (Jaffna).
  • Dialog Stores: Dialog has retail stores located across major cities and towns in Sri Lanka. You can walk into any Dialog store to buy a SIM card. Some larger stores also offer SIM activation services.
  • Authorized Dealers: Look out for shops and stalls displaying the “Authorized Dialog Dealer” board. These smaller retail outlets are authorized to sell Dialog SIM cards and load credit.
  • Online: Visit the Dialog website to purchase an eSIM online if you have a compatible device. The eSIM will be delivered via email.
  • Supermarkets & Convenience Stores: Most supermarkets like Keells and Cargills and sundry shops sell Dialog prepaid SIM cards. Just check for the Dialog brand visibility.
Dialog Store
Dialog Store

2. Where to Buy Sri Lanka Dialog eSIM

Here are a few options for buying a Dialog eSIM for use in Sri Lanka:

  • Direct from Dialog: Dialog is the largest mobile network operator in Sri Lanka. You can purchase an eSIM directly from them online or at one of their retail stores.
  • Sri Lanka eSIM providers: Some independent eSIM providers offer Dialog eSIMs for foreign travelers to Sri Lanka. A reputable option is esimsrilanka.com – which sells eSIM data packages online that you can activate remotely.

Get an eSIM directly from Dialog or buy from a reputable eSIM provider like esimsrilanka.com before your trip for the easiest setup process in Sri Lanka.

Leave your physical SIM behind, travel light with eSIM from esimsrilanka.com
Buy now

VII. How to Activate Dialog SIM Card/eSIM

Obtaining a Dialog SIM card or eSIM is one thing, but making sure it’s activated and ready to use on your device is another important step. The following details how to activate a Dialog SIM card or eSIM.

1. How to Use Dialog Sri Lanka Physical SIM Card

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready:

  • Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
  • Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
  • Activate the SIM card: In most cases, the Dialog SIM card will be pre-activated
  • Set up APN settings if required
  • Check your services

2. How to Activate Dialog Sri Lanka eSIM

Getting started with a Dialog eSIM for Sri Lanka is quick and easy:

  • Install the eSIM: Refer to the provider’s guide to scan the QR code
  • Activate the eSIM: Select the provider’s plan to start the activation process
  • Set up the eSIM: Configure APN, cellular data, and mobile network settings
  • Start using the eSIM

VIII. Sri Lanka Dialog Call & SMS Rates

Dialog offers competitive call and SMS rates for both local and international communications. The charges vary depending on the type of service, destination, and duration of the call or message. Here’s an overview of Dialog’s call and SMS rates:

Calls/SMS Within Dialog Network Calls to Other Networks
Local Calls (per minute) $0.01 $0.02
National Calls (per minute) $0.01 $0.02
International Calls (per minute) - Variable rates depending on country. e.g. $0.50 to India, $0.80 to USA.
SMS within Sri Lanka $0.002 $0.004
SMS to International - $0.05

💡 Notes

  • Rates are monthly rental charges (not call rates) for postpaid plans. Prepaid rates may differ.
  • International call/SMS rates vary depending on the destination country. Above are sample rates for India and the USA.
  • 1 LKR is approximately equal to $0.004 as of date. Rates have been converted from LKR to US$ for ease of understanding.

It should be highlighted that call and SMS rates may vary, so it is recommended to check actual rates for calls and SMSs in advance.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Dialog SIM Card/eSIM

Dialog offers a host of USSD codes that you can use for different things such as service activation and deactivation, account balance checking, recharging of air time, and other mobile management issues.

Here are some useful USSD codes for Dialog SIM cards and eSIMs:

  • #107# – Access the functions related to Mobile services
  • #678# – Access the functions related to Prepaid Mobile
  • *#123# –  Recharge Code

X. How to Top-up Dialog SIM Card/eSIM

Topping up a Dialog SIM card, or an eSIM, will secure continuous communications, as well as allow additional services or data to be acquired. Dialog provides several convenient methods to recharge your mobile balance:

  • Online Top-up – Through its website and mobile app, Dialog offers the online top-up option. This makes it convenient to refill your balance via credit card and reduces the requirement for real prepaid cards.
  • Scratch Cards – Physical scratch cards are common in convenience store outlets, supermarkets, and Dialog outlets throughout Sri Lanka. Scratch off the protective layer revealing the PIN, and use the card to top up your balance per the instructions provided along with the card.
  • eZ Cash – one of the most preferred digital payment platforms in Sri Lanka where you can recharge your Dialog phone through your mobile wallet. The only thing you have to do is send money to your Dialog number.

XI. FAQs about Dialog in Sri Lanka

Can I use my Dialog SIM card outside of Sri Lanka?

Yes, Dialog SIM cards can be used while roaming in select countries. However, checking the roaming rates and compatibility with the destination country’s networks is recommended before traveling.

What should I do if I lose my Dialog SIM card/eSIM?

In case of a lost or stolen SIM card or eSIM, it is advised to immediately contact Dialog customer care to block the service and request a replacement.

Can I keep my Dialog eSIM after leaving Sri Lanka?

Yes, you can continue using your Dialog eSIM in compatible devices even after leaving Sri Lanka. However, roaming rates and availability of local services may vary depending on the country you are in.

XII. Final Words

Dialog SIM cards and eSIMs provide an excellent solution for tourists visiting Sri Lanka. Dialog provides wide coverage and low rates of high-speed connectivity for your ease while traveling. Be it a SIM card or the flexible eSIM, Dialog assures you of quality mobile services that will make your stay unforgettable in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the next time you plan a trip to this tropical paradise, be sure to buy a Dialog SIM card or activate your eSIM so that your journey becomes easier when exploring Sri Lanka.