Uganda's International Dialing Code
To call Uganda from abroad, dial the international access prefix (e.g., 011 from the U.S., 00 from Europe), then +256, followed by the local number without the leading zero.
Format: +256 + [area/mobile code] + [subscriber number]
Example: +256 414 123 456
Calling Ugandan Landlines
Most landlines begin with 4XX in Kampala and 4XX in other regions. Drop the leading zero when dialing from abroad.
| City / Region | Area Code | International Format |
|---|---|---|
| Kampala | 414 | +256 414 XXX XXX |
| Entebbe | 414 | +256 414 XXX XXX |
| Jinja | 434 | +256 434 XXX XXX |
| Mbale | 454 | +256 454 XXX XXX |
| Gulu | 471 | +256 471 XXX XXX |
| Mbarara | 485 | +256 485 XXX XXX |
Within Uganda, dial 0 + area code (e.g., 0414 123 456).
Calling Ugandan Mobiles
Mobile numbers follow the pattern 0XX XXX XXXX, where XX identifies the carrier. Remove the leading zero when calling internationally.
| Network | Common Prefixes | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MTN Uganda | 077X, 078X, 079X | +256 788 123 456 |
| Airtel Uganda | 070X, 075X | +256 750 123 456 |
| Uganda Telecom (UTL) | 071X | +256 712 123 456 |
| Africell Uganda | 074X | +256 742 123 456 |
Tip: Save numbers in your contacts with +256 so roaming phones dial correctly.
Buying a SIM or eSIM in Uganda
| Provider | Where to Buy | Tourist Bundles | ID Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTN Uganda | Entebbe Airport, MTN Service Centers, malls | 5–30 GB packages, voice + mobile money | Passport |
| Airtel Uganda | Entebbe Airport, Airtel shops, partner kiosks | Combo bundles with data + local minutes | Passport |
| Africell | Selected electronics stores | Data packages and voice bundles | Passport |
- Registration is mandatory—bring your physical passport.
- eSIMs are available for select phones at MTN and Airtel flagship stores.
- Mobile money (MTN MoMo, Airtel Money) can be activated on tourist SIMs for cashless payments and transportation.
Network Coverage & Internet
- 4G/LTE: Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, and major towns.
- 3G: Most national parks, highways, and secondary cities.
- 2G: Remote areas—expect slower data in rural regions or deep in national parks.
- Wi-Fi: Hotels, cafes, and coworking spaces in Kampala and Entebbe offer reliable connections, but mobile data is more consistent on road trips.
Recommended setup for travelers:
- Primary line: local SIM for data + local calls.
- Backup: eSIM or roaming line for banking 2FA.
- Portable router if traveling with a group.
Emergency Numbers & Helpful Contacts
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose police / emergency | 999 or 112 | Works nationwide; free from any phone. |
| Traffic accidents | 999 | Direct line to Uganda Police traffic unit. |
| Fire brigade | 999 | Fire & Rescue services. |
| Medical ambulance | 999 | Emergency medical service. |
| Tourist info | +256 414 342 196 | Uganda Tourism Board visitor line. |
Dial these numbers directly inside Uganda—no need to prefix +256.
Other International Codes for Uganda
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| ISO Alpha-2 | UG |
| ISO Alpha-3 | UGA |
| Numeric Code | 800 |
| Internet TLD | .ug |
| Currency | UGX (Ugandan Shilling) |
| ICAO Country Prefix | 5X |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need +256 when calling within Uganda?
No. Dial the number starting with 0 (e.g., 0788 XXX XXX) for domestic calls.
Can I keep my foreign WhatsApp number?
Yes. Install a local SIM for data/voice but keep WhatsApp tied to your home number for continuity.
Is roaming expensive?
International roaming works but is costly; buying a local SIM or eSIM is far cheaper.
Are there phone booths?
Public booths are rare. Use hotel phones, mobile networks, or VoIP apps.
Can I top up with cash?
Yes. Airtime scratch cards and mobile money agents are everywhere—look for yellow (MTN) or red (Airtel) kiosks.
Do emergency numbers accept English?
Yes. Operators typically speak English, and often Swahili or local languages.
Save these codes before you fly and you'll stay seamlessly connected across Kampala, Entebbe, gorilla trekking destinations, and Uganda's national parks.
