GUIDE · UPDATED 2026

Saudi Telecom Guide STC · Mobily · Zain · SIM · Internet

A practical hub for choosing and using a Saudi SIM — providers, registration, balance checks, APN settings and home internet packages.

⚡ Quick Links 📱 SIM & Balance 🌐 Packages & APN ☎️ Provider Codes ❓ FAQ

Quick Action Links

Common telecom tasks

OfficialSTC Website OfficialMobily Website OfficialZain KSA Website GuideAbsher Services Guide

SIM, Number & Balance Checks

Registering and managing your SIM

Providers: the main networks are STC, Mobily and Zain, alongside virtual operators like Virgin Mobile, Lebara, Friendi and Salam that run on the main networks.
Registering a SIM: Saudi law requires SIMs to be registered against a valid Iqama or Border/Visit number, done in-store with biometric verification.
Checking SIMs on your Iqama: you can check how many SIM cards are registered under your Iqama through the telecom regulator's (CST) official portal — useful to spot unauthorized SIMs.
Finding your own number: if you've forgotten your number, most carriers let you check it via a USSD code or the operator's app.
Balance checks: each operator has its own USSD codes and app options to check remaining credit and data.

Packages, Internet & APN

Data plans and getting connected

APN settings: if mobile data doesn't work after inserting a new SIM, the Access Point Name (APN) usually needs to be set manually or confirmed against the provider's published settings.
Home internet: fiber (FTTH) and 5G home internet are both widely available in major cities — fiber tends to offer more consistent speeds, while 5G home plans are quicker to install and often cheaper to start.
Prepaid data SIMs: operators offer visitor-friendly and long-term prepaid data packages with no commitment, useful for newcomers before choosing a postpaid plan.
5G coverage: coverage varies by area — checking your operator's coverage map before committing to a 5G plan is worthwhile.
Best SIM for visitors: short-stay visitors often prefer prepaid tourist SIM packages available at the airport or partner stores, avoiding the need for an Iqama.

💡 If your internet stops working after a SIM swap or new phone, checking APN settings is usually the first thing to try.

Provider Codes & Customer Care

Quick USSD codes by operator

Provider	Balance Check	Customer Care
STC	*100#	900
Mobily	*500#	700
Zain	*700#	959
Virgin Mobile	*200#	959
Lebara	*145#	595

Codes and numbers can change — always confirm on the operator's official app or website if a code doesn't respond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which telecom companies are common in Saudi Arabia?

STC, Mobily and Zain are the three main network operators. Virgin Mobile, Lebara, Friendi and Salam are popular virtual operators running on these networks.

Why is mobile data not working after inserting a SIM?

This is usually a missing or incorrect APN setting. Check your operator's published APN settings and enter them manually if your phone hasn't auto-configured.

Can I check SIMs registered on my Iqama?

Yes — the telecom regulator (CST) provides an online check so you can see how many SIM cards are linked to your Iqama.

Do I need an Iqama to buy a SIM in Saudi Arabia?

Yes for a standard registered SIM. Short-term visitors can usually buy tourist/visitor SIM packages using their passport and visa instead.

Is fiber or 5G better for home internet?

Fiber generally offers more stable speeds for heavy daily use, while 5G home internet is faster to set up and can be a good option where fiber isn't available yet.

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Disclaimer: Prices, codes and telecom packages change frequently. This guide is for general information only — always confirm current rates and codes on your operator's official app or website.