Karachi - Post Report Question and Answers
Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
It is best to bring an unlocked cell phone to Karachi. You can purchase a pay-as-you go plan for that phone. Cell phone connectivity is often spotty throughout Karachi. The Government of Pakistan will bring down cell networks at random times so it is best that you have a CB radio for emergency communication. - Aug 2015
Carry two, as these are frequently robbed. Pakistan, finally, got some 3G service in May 2014, so smartphones are useful now. However, most people carry a very basic phone (think old Nokias) since they get stolen/and/or/robbed often. - Jun 2014
If you're okay using a standard (numberpad) phone, the Consulate will give you one. If you want a smart phone, bring the kind that takes a SIM card and is unlocked (i.e. not Sprint or Verizon phones). There's only 2G here, so it might not be worth it (but you have the option to activate a data plan). - Mar 2013
Don't bother bring one - you'll be issued one by the Consulate. - Sep 2011
