Best SIM Card in Saudi Arabia

Did you know Saudi Arabia has a 91.3% internet use rate? If you’re in a country like that, staying connected is not just mere luxury or a form of convenience. Whether you’re there to admire the contemporary architecture of Riyadh or going on a pilgrimage to Mecca, having an efficient SIM card in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can make or break your stay.

This comprehensive guide will not only highlight the best SIM card providers in the Kingdom but also explain their features and peculiarities in detail and help you understand the available options. 

If you are about to travel to Saudi for tourism, business, or any other reason, or you are a resident in the process of changing your current mobile operator, you are quite lucky. As always, we’ve done the research for you so you can remain connected without spending too much time or getting frustrated. So, let’s get right down to choosing the right SIM card to ensure that you remain connected to the world when discovering the beauty of Saudi Arabia.

Why You Need a Good SIM Card in Saudi Arabia

A good SIM card comes with many benefits, including:

1. Staying Connected

The first and perhaps the most apparent benefit of a local SIM card is the ability to connect with family and friends. Since you are connecting using a local SIM card, you are not charged as expensive tariffs as those that are affiliated with international roaming.

Local SIMs are physical cards usable in a particular country and can even be used to make international calls at a cheaper price. This makes it easy to use in Saudi Arabia as well as in other parts of the globe.

2. Online Services

Services that are offered in Saudi Arabia are mostly online due to the high usage of the internet in the country. That includes booking rides, ordering food, etc. However, all of these depend on access to the internet. Once you’ve got a SIM card and a stable data deal, there will be no interruptions at all.

3. Get Better Coverage

At times, the International SIM cards offer some extent of coverage, but the networks could be a bit of a disappointment, especially in the local areas.
Local SIM cards belonging to STC, Mobily, and Zain, for instance, are suitable for increasing your chances of getting a connection in those areas.

4. Cost Efficiency

It is way cheaper to use a SIM card that you purchase in the country than to subscribe to a roaming service. It is also possible for the local providers to come out with packages that give you exactly what you want. Lots of data, international minutes, as well as, unlimited local calls.

5. Local Services

There are always localized services like mobile banking or any government services that require the user’s local phone number for identification. That is why it is recommended to have a local SIM card so that you can easily access those services.

6. Avoid Roaming Charges

Roaming charges could be very expensive; therefore, the charges you spend to make a call, send messages, or even use data may rise to very high levels within a short span of time. You can avoid such expenses when you get a local SIM card that provides affordable mobile services.

Major Mobile Network Providers in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s mobile network infrastructure is well-developed, with three major players dominating the market as the best mobile network providers in Saudi Arabia. STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Mobily, and Zain are these mobile network providers. Each provider has its own advantages and caters to different types of users. Here’s the top providers of SIM cards names list:

STC (Saudi Telecom Company)

STC is the largest and oldest telecom provider in Saudi Arabia. Established in 1998, it has a strong market reputation for network coverage and reliable services. It has a huge influence on the Saudi telecom industry and has many customers, including residents, business persons, and tourists.

Aside from serving its home market, STC has businesses in other countries in the Middle East, namely Kuwait and Bahrain, under its subsidiary VIVA.

STC is able to preserve its position by continually adopting and providing state-of-the-art services like 5G, fiber-optic networks, and many bundled offers.

Mobily

Mobily was launched in 2004, and within a short period of time, the company became one of the significant players in the Saudi telecom sector. Due to recently introduced innovative products and services and focus on customers, Mobily has attained a major market share, especially among young technology lovers.

Zain

Zain first invested in the Saudi market in 2008 and, over the years, has grown to be a force to reckon with in the telecom market. Its targets are offering low prices and expanding its 5G coverage. It’s the cheapest sim in Saudi Arabia and has excellent technology.

Criteria for Choosing the Best SIM Card

When choosing a SIM card in Saudi Arabia, there are several things to consider. Here’s a closer look:

1. Network Coverage

Network coverage is very important in case you want to visit different areas, and travel outside major cities. A provider that has wide coverage can guarantee that wherever you are, either in the city or remote areas, you will get a reliable connection.

2. Data Plans and Packages

You need data to browse the Internet, use most mobile applications, and keep in touch with friends and family on social media. The right data plan or taking advantage of favorable offers will ensure you have enough bandwidth for your needs without overspending.

3. Call and Text Rates

Whether you’re making calls within the small neighborhood or the country, or you’re making calls to another country, you have to pay certain fees. With high rates, you may be paying ridiculous amounts just to make calls. A provider that offers affordable rates for calls and texts is very necessary if you frequently talk to or text people outside Saudi Arabia.

4. Price

The SIM card that will best suit your needs will also largely depend on your budget. Saudi Arabia SIM card price and their plans may differ significantly from one provider to the other.

5. Customer Service

At times, you may encounter issues while using your SIM card and you need quality customer service to resolve them. A provider that has mastered customer support can help you resolve such issues quickly.

6. Additional Features

Some providers give you bonus features, such as free download of applications, reward programs, or cheaper international calls. These perks could make a lot of difference to your SIM card plan.

Detailed Comparison of Top SIM Cards

To choose the best SIM card, we need to compare all the major service providers, namely STC, Mobily, and Zain. Here, we’ll break down each provider’s services, pros, cons, and the user they’re best suited for:

STC (Saudi Telecom Company)

• Network Coverage: It has the widest network coverage in Saudi Arabia, meaning it’s a perfect travel SIM card for users who travel around the country. You’ll get a good connection, whether you live in a big city or a rather remote area.
• Data Plans: The available data packages from STC range from simple packages to bundled and unlimited packages. They also offer specific packages for social media platforms and streaming services. STC has relatively expensive data tariffs, but its network is stable and fast enough to justify the high tariffs they charge.
• Call and Text Rates: STC’s call and text tariffs are generally affordable, especially for international calls. They have certain packages within regions, allowing you to call at a considerably lower price and reducing costs for international calls.
• Customer Service: Known for quality customer service, STC provides a number of ways to get assistance with any issue. These include a helpline, an online chat on their website, or visiting one of their stores.
• Additional Features: There are some bonus services you can get with STC such as Jawwy, the cheaper tariff for international call,s and a reward program.

Advantages	Best For
Network coverage in the country is extensive.	Travelers who need a strong internet connection across the country.
Reliable and fast internet connection.	Heavy data users who need strong and high-speed internet connections.
High-quality customer support.	Residents who like to have various options and don’t mind paying a premium.
Additional features and privileges.

Mobily

• Network Coverage: In urban areas, Mobily offers strong connections throughout the areas, while in rural areas, the connection can be less reliable than that in urban areas.
• Data Plans: Mobily also does well with providing affordable data plans. They have flexible packages for both light data users and heavy data users at the same time. They also have specific offers for social media usage, which makes it even more suitable for individuals who spend a lot of time surfing the web.
• Call and Text Rates: Their rates for calls and texts are rather affordable. Mobily also has special offers for international calls, giving people an opportunity to keep in touch with friends, relatives, etc, outside Saudi Arabia.
• Customer Service: Customer service is an area in which Mobily is heavily invested, and they even provide support in different languages. Their customer service has always been regarded as helpful, responsive, and friendly, especially through the company’s online platforms.
• Additional Features: Other services include discounts on popular applications, deals for students, and rewards from their loyalty program. They also provide access to entertainment services, and you may get lucky and get lower rates to some international destinations.

Advantages	Best For
Great and pocket-friendly data plans.	City-dwellers and travelers in urban areas.
Strong customer service that supports multiple languages.	Users who are looking for affordable data plans.
Compelling offers for international calls and texts.	Users who need great offers for international calls.

Zain

• Network Coverage: Zain has expanded its network coverage quickly, with special attention to urban areas. Of course, it doesn’t cover as much ground as STC, but in cities and towns, Zain is a pretty stable network. This makes it a viable option for many users. 
• Data Plans: Zain has some of the cheapest data plans in the market and packages for every type of user. Whether you need a simple package or a heavy one for browsing the internet, watching videos, or scrolling on social media platforms, Zain has it all.
• Call and Text Rates: Zain is admired for its budget-friendly call and text tariffs, especially when it comes to international communication. They have special packages that make it easier for you to stay in contact with family and friends outside of the country.
• Customer Service: Their customer care is efficient and easily available. Zain provides customer support through live chat, phone, and the company’s retail stores. It is well known that they have a specialized approach to solving problems and are very efficient and fast in doing so.
• Additional Features: Users can get features such as social media data bundles, free or discounted access to some applications, and affordable international call rates with Zain. Such extras make Zain attractive to users who want to get value for their money.

Advantages	Best For
Low-cost and competitive data offers.	Budget-conscious users.
Value-added services and additional privileges for loyal customers.	Residents in urban areas who need affordable but effective service.
Fast-increasing network coverage in urban areas.	Heavy social media and streaming services users.

How to Buy and Activate a SIM Card

While setting up your local SIM card in Saudi Arabia is quite straightforward, you need to know where to buy one and the documents to register and activate it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.

Step 1: Place to Purchase Your SIM Card

You can buy your SIM card through:

• The Airport: A convenient place to buy a SIM card is at the airport when you arrive. Large airports have several stores that sell SIM cards from all the major providers.
• Retail Outlets: The major telecom providers in the country, including STC, Mobily, and Zain, all have retail stores that can be found throughout the country. In those stores, you can get SIM cards, get details about the available plans, and get help activating the card for use.
• Online: It is also possible to buy SIM cards online and get them delivered to your address.

Step 2: Get all the Documents Needed to Set Up Your Saudi SIM Card

When buying a SIM card in Saudi Arabia, you will need to show some documents for verification. This is a normal practice to follow local laws that protect mobile services. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Passport: Your valid passport is the first document needed on the identification list. Ensure it is not expired and that you carry it with you when purchasing the SIM card.
• Visa or Residency Permit: If you are a guest, you will be required to present the valid visa acquired during the journey. An Iqama (residency permit) will be necessary for residents.

These are quite general and may also differ between the providers, as well as may be updated from time to time. It is always best to confirm with your selected provider earlier and have these documents ready when you go to purchase the SIM card.

Step 3: How to Activate the SIM Card

The activation stage may also vary with providers and if you got your SIM card from a store or an online outlet.  Here are the general steps and options:

1. In-Store Activation: If you buy it from an officially recognized outlet, then your SIM card is activated on the spot. In many cases, it will be the responsibility of the staff to activate it for you.
2. Self-Activation: If your SIM is not activated before inserting it into the phone, you may need to do it manually. Here are the methods for major providers:
   • STC: Call 900 from your STC line to activate your STC SIM card. You can also use the MySTC app or visit their website.
   • Mobily: Call 1100 from your Mobily line. You can also use the Mobily app or visit their website.
   • Zain: Call 959 from your Zain line. You can also use the Zain SA app or visit their website.
3. Online Activation: Some providers allow you to activate your SIM cards online:
   • Visit the provider’s website.
   • Enter your SIM card number and other required details.
   • Follow the prompts to complete the activation.

After activation, it’s a good idea to restart your phone and test the service by making a call or sending a text message.

Step 4: How to Recharge and Manage Plans

There are different options for recharging and managing plans on your SIM card.

Some recharge options include:

1. Through Apps: Every major provider has applications that enable you to recharge your SIM card, manage your data bundle, and check your usage. These apps can be downloaded either on Android or iOS.
2. Physical Recharge Cards: There are physical recharge cards available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and kiosks, among others. These cards have a scratch-off code which you input into your phone to recharge your SIM.

Some options for managing your plan include:

1. Provider Apps: The most convenient way to manage your SIM card plan is through the provider’s app. Here, you can view your data and airtime balance. You can also upgrade or switch to another plan at any time, depending on what you need.
2. USSD Codes: Many providers have USSD codes that can easily be dialed from the phone to check your balance, subscribe to certain services, or even recharge. They are normally provided on the SIM card package.

Saudi Arabia Mobile Network Codes

Each mobile network provider in Saudi Arabia has specific prefixes for their phone numbers. These prefixes assist you in knowing the network to which a certain number belongs. Here’s a breakdown of the common prefixes:

• STC: 050 network code, 053 network code, and 055 network code are prefixes associated with STC numbers. If you see a number that starts with any of these, they are probably an STC customer.
• Mobily: Numbers that start with prefixes of 054 network code and 056 network code are typically Mobily numbers.
• Zain: Zain phone numbers usually begin with 058 network code or 059 network code.

Others include the 057 network code for Virgin Mobile and the 051 network code for Salam Mobile. These network codes can be useful when, for instance, you need to find the provider of a number, especially when considering the call and text rates between different networks.

eSIM Cards in Saudi Arabia

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows a user to subscribe to a mobile plan without using a traditional SIM card. It is built into your device, so you do not need to physically replace the SIM card to choose a different plan or provider.

Advantages of Using eSIMs

eSIMs have several advantages, including:

1. Convenience: One of the primary benefits of eSIMs is their convenience. Users can easily switch between plans or providers without visiting a store or waiting for a physical SIM card to be delivered. This is particularly useful for frequent travelers or those who like to shop around for the best mobile deals.
2. Multiple Numbers: eSIMs allow users to have several numbers on a single device. This feature is especially valuable for business travelers or individuals who need to maintain separate numbers for personal and professional use.

Providers Offering eSIM Services

Many providers in KSA, including the major providers, offer eSIM services. Some of them are:

1. STC: STC offers eSIM services that can be set up online through their app or website. They provide multiple plans supporting eSIM technology, making it easy for customers to transition to eSIM without necessarily changing their existing plans.
2. Mobily: Mobily also supports eSIM technology. Users can activate their Mobily eSIM through the app. This service is compatible with modern smartphones that support eSIM technology.
3. Zain: Zain provides eSIM services that can be activated online or at a physical store. They offer flexible eSIM plans for both domestic use and roaming, often at competitive prices.
4. Virgin Mobile Saudi Arabia: As an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) in Saudi Arabia, Virgin Mobile offers eSIMs that can be activated through their app. They provide a range of customizable data and voice plans, making them a good choice for those who prefer managing their services digitally.

How to Activate an eSIM

To activate your eSIM, you need to:

1. Check Compatibility: To activate an eSIM, you need to ensure that your device is eSIM compatible. Modern smartphones, such as iPhone 11 and the latest versions, Samsung Galaxy S20 and above, and Google Pixel phones, have eSIM compatibility.
2. Activation Process: Generally, you need to scan a QR code issued by the mobile network provider for an eSIM activation. This code is often sent via email or can be obtained within the provider’s app.
3. Set Up the eSIM: After you scan the QR code, your device will prompt you to configure the eSIM. After reading these contact instructions, complete the activation process by following the instructions on the screen.

eSIM Costs vs. Traditional SIM Card Plans

The cost of eSIM plans is generally comparable to traditional SIM card plans. However, some other providers propose somewhat lower prices for eSIMs because there is no need for physical card manufacturing.

eSIMs are usually more valuable despite their initial costs being similar to those of physical cards. The flexibility of changing plans, the possibility of using multiple numbers, and the fact that there is no need to buy physical SIM cards from time to time make them worth the investment.

Device Compatibility

There are a few steps that you need to take before getting an eSIM, and the first is to check if your device supports such an eSIM. Not all devices are eSIM compatible, and if you switch to an eSIM without a compatible device, you may lose your connection.

Ensure that your chosen provider is compatible with eSIMs for your phone model. In Saudi Arabia, most of the major providers have a compatibility list on their websites.

Conclusion

The best SIM card in Saudi Arabia depends on what you need. You can choose the network you want to stick with, whether for the coverage, data offerings, or the tariff. STC is the best option for those who need coverage, especially outside of urban areas. Mobily is suitable for those customers who need large data plans and reliable support from the provider, making it a great option for those in urban areas. Zain has budget-friendly options, so it’s ideal for those who want reasonable prices and quality services. If convenience and flexibility are what you’re looking for, then eSIMs are a very strong alternative to a traditional SIM card. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, the best SIM card for you depends on your needs, whether that’s outstanding network coverage, low tariffs, or eSIM support.

Frequently Asked Questions