Bahrain – known for being a small, oil-rich island nation in the Middle East.
Its beaches are popular for their clear blue waters.
But what can you do in this country?
While the cities are modern nowadays, the country still has many historical sites to visit, such as the Bahrain Forst, the Bahrain National Museum, or the Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
And there are plenty of parks and zoos to visit.
Do note that Bahrain is not the cheapest travel destination out there.
So any way to save some cash is always a good idea.
One way to save money is by getting a Bahraini SIM card instead of roaming internationally. Roaming can be expensive.
However, local SIM cards allow you to enjoy local rates, which are almost always lower than international roaming rates.
So, how expensive are SIM cards in Bahrain?
Bahraini SIM cards are available from 4 BHD (10.60 USD – Batelco), 6.30 BHD (16.70 – Zain) & 7 BHD (18.55 USD – STC) in their stores. However, these starter plans include data, minutes & SMS from the start. SIM cards are also sold at Bahrain International Airport.
I am glad that these prices, or SIM cards, include plans because spending 18.60 USD for just a SIM card would be criminal.
But there are mobile operators globally that do charge these criminal prices. Batelco does this in other countries it operates in – crazy!
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Bahrain. Let’s do this.
Original publication: 18th of December 2019. Last updated: 25th of September 2023.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Bahrain?
Anyone 18 years old or older living in or visiting Bahrain can buy a Bahraini SIM card from the mobile network operators (Batelco, STC Bahrain & Zain Bahrain) with some restrictions.
The main restriction is that you can only have ten active SIM cards per mobile operator in your name in Bahrain.
Even for people like me, who like to test out all the mobile operators in a country, this should be more than enough.
But you may have a solid reason for needing 30 SIM cards – you do you.
Besides that restriction, you are free to use Bahraini SIM cards.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Bahrain).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Bahrain?
You can get a Bahraini SIM card in Batelco, STC & Zain stores. It is also possible to get SIM cards at Bahrain International Airport.
You can expect to pay the following for Bahraini SIM cards:
- Batelco: from 4 BHD
- STC Bahrain (formerly VIVA Bahrain): from 6.30 BHD
- Zain Bahrain: from 7 BHD
TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for Bahraini SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).
Can You Use Your Phone in Bahrain?
Bahrain uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Bahrain. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).
Traditional European frequencies are used in Bahrain, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).
The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American Frequencies, which differ from the European ones.
If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Bahrain.
If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Bahrain or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Bahrain (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Bahrain
Bahrain has three mobile network operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Batelco
- STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
- Zain Bahrain
The following frequencies are used in Bahrain:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Bahrain, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
5G NR in Bahrain
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Bahrain since June 2019. It is available on the STC Bahrain (VIVA Bahrain), Batelco & Zain Bahrain networks. 5G NR is offered to prepaid customers for a fee of 5 BHD (13.35 USD) to 5.25 BHD (14 USD) per month.
Best SIM Card in Bahrain
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Bahrain, I recommend going with STC (VIVA) or Zain. STC (VIVA) has the best coverage and the fastest speeds in the country. Zain is the cheapest option and has close to comparable performance as STC (VIVA) and Batelco for the same or lower prices.
Best eSIM in Bahrain
Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM to prepaid customers in Bahrain yet.
Note that the Bahraini mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).
However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.
The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Bahrain.
But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.
Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).
So here are the four best eSIMs for Bahrain:
- Airalo Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIM with three choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (top pick)
- Airalo Menalink eSIM with three choices between 1 GB and 3 GB
- Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
- AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Bahrain with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Bahrain, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).
If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Bahrain, you better check out my Bahrain eSIM buying guide.
It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.
SIM Card Registration in Bahrain
SIM card registration, with the use of your passport information, is mandatory in Bahrain. This will be done at the point of purchase.
As of 2017, biometrics (fingerprints) will also be taken as part of the SIM card registration process.
Moreover, you can have up to ten active prepaid SIM cards PER mobile operator in Bahrain, allowing you to have up to 30 active prepaid SIM cards in the country.
This restriction applies to both Bahrani citizens and non-citizens (including migrant workers and tourists).
Even I would not know what to do with so many SIM cards in just one country, but I will not be judging you for having so many ;)
Furthermore, you have to reverify yourself with the mobile operator yearly as part of the mandatory (re)verification scheme.
However, this can be done on the apps of the mobile operators or by texting something to a USSD/shortcode.
VAT in Bahrain
As of January 2019, the Bahraini government introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% applicable to most goods and services in Bahrain.
The 5% VAT has been incorporate in (most) prices in Bahrain.
However, unlike Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the 5% VAT has been incorporate in all advertised prices in Bahrain (at least for prepaid related mobile services).
The mobile operators either increased the prices slightly to account for the VAT or discounted some plans so that the eventual price still looks nice – ending in .0 or .5 (unlike Jordan where prices look ridiculous).
Therefore, you do not have to pull out a calculator when paying for mobile prepaid services in Bahrain.
Internet Censorship in Bahrain
There is internet censorship in Bahrain. The government censors various things, such as LGBTQ content, pornography, political criticism & escort services.
However, unlike other countries in the region, internet censorship is not as strong in Bahrain.
That is why I would recommend using a VPN to browse the web in peace. I use both NordVPN and Surfshark.
NordVPN has the most servers of any VPN service out there, which I love.
Surfshark is insanely cheap for the price they charge.
Depending on where I am, I will either use NordVPN or Surfshark.
Neither VPNs have servers in Bahrain (obviously), which makes sense, but connecting to nearby countries will still result in fast browsing speeds.
You can get amazing discounts for both NordVPN and Surfshark when using these links. Stay safe, secure, and private in Bahrain!
(oh, by the way – VPNs are not illegal in Bahrain, but the authorities may not like it. But what are they going to do? You will be private anyway 😉 just do not do anything silly like insulting government officials…)
Bahrain Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Mobile data rates in the Middle East are quite low.
Especially compared to other regions around the world.
And many mobile operators in some countries offer GENEROUS data allowances.
So, how expensive is mobile data in Bahrain?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Saudi Arabia is 2.12 USD, around the Middle Eastern average of 3.94 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
That is not bad at all! About half the global average.
So, you do not pay much for mobile data, but do you get fast mobile internet speeds?
Yes, you do.
Bahrain's average mobile download speed is around 82 Mbps.
These speeds are far above the global average of 57 Mbps.
From a regional perspective, however, Bahrain is quite behind.
The United Arab Emirates (196 Mbps), Qatar (169 Mbps), Saudi Arabia (150 Mbps), Kuwait (141 Mbps) & Oman (98 Mbps) have much faster mobile download speeds than Bahrain.
But we should not compare ourselves to others all the time, right? ;)
When just looking at Bahrain, it has done a marvelous job.
Within a year, it has doubled its average mobile download speeds.
And their numbers are bound to be much higher.
With all the mobile operators claiming nationwide coverage and more phone manufacturers producing 5G NR compatible devices, Bahrain can enjoy blazing fast speeds. Just like its neighbors.
With reasonably priced SIM cards, low mobile data rates, fast mobile data speeds, and extensive nationwide coverage, you should have a smooth network experience in Bahrain.
Currency in Bahrain
Bahrain uses the Bahrani Dinar with the symbol BHD (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed in دينار. For example, 25 BHD = 25 دينار.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between BHD and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 BHD = 2.65 USD
- 10 BHD = 26.55 USD
- 100 BHD = 265.25 USD
For up-to-date BHD:USD exchange rates, search BHD to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.
Bahraini Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Batelco, STC Bahrain (formerly VIVA Bahrain) & Zain Bahrain, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge/top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Bahrain to offer to us.
Batelco
Batelco, by Bahrain Telecommunication Company (BTC), is the largest mobile operator in Bahrain.
It is the country's oldest mobile operator and held a monopoly until Zain Bahrain (then MTC-Vodafone) entered the market.
Batelco is the fastest mobile operator in the country as well, with the fastest maximum 4G/LTE and 5G NR speeds (133 Mbps and 640.3 Mbps, respectively).
As a company, Batelco is active in Africa, Europe, the Middle East & South America through acquisitions (including Umniah in Jordan, Dhiraagu in the Maldives & Sure in the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Falkland Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension Island & Diego Garcia).
Batelco uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A – phased out on the 30th of November 2021
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Batelco:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Batelco SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Batelco
Batelco has extensive coverage in Bahrain.
Coverage can be found basically anywhere in Bahrain.
Below is Batelco's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Batelco
You can buy a Batelco SIM starting, called SimSim, starting from 4 BHD in Batelco stores. The data-only SIM card, called Batelco Prepaid Monthly Internet, is sold from 7.35. SIM cards are available at Bahrain International Airport as well.
The following Prepaid Monthly Internet Starter Packs (data-only SIM cards) are available:
| Price | Data | Speed | 5G NR Access? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.35 BHD | 10 GB | Unrestricted | No |
| 10.50 BHD | 20 GB | Unrestricted | No |
| 12.50 BHD | 200 GB | @10 Mbps | Yes |
| 17.75 BHD | 600 GB | Unrestricted | Yes |
| 23 BHD | 1 TB | @20 Mbps | Yes |
| 37 BHD | 3 TB | Unrestricted | Yes |
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is also possible to get a Batelco eSIM for 3.15 BHD.
Note that the Bahraini mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Bahrain without personal detail capturing, you can get the Bahrain (Saar Mobile) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers & 5 GB/ 30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Airalo recently introduced an eSIM for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): Menalink. The Menalink eSIM follows the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries, the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.
The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 days – very popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
Sometimes, it can be more convenient and cheaper to get the Menalink eSIM than the local Airalo eSIM because Menalink offers more data (instead of you having to purchase multiple 1 GB/7 days top-ups to stay connected).
With the Menalink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in the Middle East and North Africa!
TIP: check out my Best Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Bahrain.
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Batelco
Batelco top-up vouchers are sold in Batelco stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.
The following top-up options are available:
| Top-Up | Validity | eTop-Up Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 2 days | 3 days |
| 2 BHD | 7 days | 9 days |
| 3 BHD | 14 days | 17 days |
| 4 BHD | 18 days | 21 days |
| 5 BHD | 21 days | 26 days |
| 6 BHD | 30 days | 35 days |
| 7 BHD | 40 days | 47 days |
| 8 BHD | 40 days | 47 days |
| 10 BHD | 45 days | 60 days |
| 12 BHD | 45 days | 45 days |
| 20 BHD | 60 days | 120 days |
| 30 BHD | 100 days | 210 days |
If you recharge online or use eTop-Up, the credit validity will be longer than topping up with regular refill cards.
To top up your Batelco SIM card, dial *125*VoucherCode# and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *125*123456#.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Currently, you get 10 GB for free if you top-up at least 6 BHD through online recharge.
Dial *122*60# to check your Batelco balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Batelco app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Batelco
Batelco has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Prepaid Packages (combo)
- Prepaid Mobile Internet Vouchers (data)
- Add-Ons
All Batelco plans are eligible for 5G NR for an additional 5 BHD/month by texting 5G to 88188.
This add-on is valid for 30 days and will auto-renew.
I will list all the prices in BHD (Bahrani Dinar).
To convert BHD to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prepaid Packages – Batelco
The Prepaid Packages are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes.
Prepaid Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 88188:
| Price | Plan | Data | On-net Minutes | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation Code | Deactivation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 BHD | New BD7.5 Package | 9 GB | N/A | 500 minutes | 28 days | N75 | DN75 |
| 8.5 BHD | Monthly International Package | 12 GB | N/A | 500 minutes 2 | 28 days | M85 | DM85 |
| 9.5 BHD | Monthly International Social Media | “Unlimited”, 16 GB 1 | Unlimited | 500 minutes 3 | 30 days | N95 | DN95 |
1 10 GB for Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIn, Skype, Snapchat, Tango, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 + international minutes Bangladesh 150, China 150, Egypt 40, Ethiopia 20, GCC 35, India 150, Indonesia 100, Jordan 30, Malaysia 150, Nepal 30, Pakistan 90, Philippines 30, Russia 20, Singapore 150, Sri Lanka 30, Sudan 20, Syria 20, Thailand 70, Turkey 20, UK 25, USA 100 & Yemen 35
3 + international minutes Bangladesh 250, China 250, Egypt 65, Ethiopia 35, GCC 60, India 250, Indonesia 160, Jordan 45, Malaysia 250, Nepal 55, Pakistan 150, Philippines 55, Russia 35, Singapore 250, Sri Lanka 50, Sudan 35, Syria 35, Thailand 120, Turkey 30, UK 40, USA 180 & Yemen 60
Prepaid Packages auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text the Deactivation Code to 88188.
Prepaid Mobile Internet Vouchers – Batelco
The Data Vouchers are top-up cards that directly transform into data allowances
Data Vouchers can be activated by dialing *125*VoucherCode#:
| Price | Validity |
|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 2 days |
| 2 BHD | 7 days |
| 3 BHD | 14 days |
| 4 BHD | 18 days |
| 5 BHD | 21 days |
| 6 BHD | 30 days |
| 7 BHD | 40 days |
| 8 BHD | 40 days |
| 10 BHD | 45 days |
| 12 BHD | 45 days |
| 20 BHD | 60 days |
| 30 BHD | 100 days |
| 40 BHD | 180 days |
Add-Ons – Batelco
The Add-Ons are data plans (with 5G NR access).
Add-Ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 88188 or dial *911#:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days | UV1 |
| 5 BHD | 8 GB | 28 days | UV5 |
| 10 BHD | 30 GB | 28 days | UV30 |
APN/Internet Settings – Batelco
- Name: Batelco
- APN: internet.batelco.com
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
STC Bahrain, just STC and formerly known as VIVA Bahrain, is the second-largest mobile operator in Bahrain.
It has been the largest player in the country some quarters and is in a neck-to-neck race with Batelco to take and keep that position.
STC stands for Saudi Telecom Company and is, of course, from Saudi Arabia.
The mobile operator was known as VIVA Bahrain until late December 2019.
However, that brand name is still ingrained in many, even after two years after rebranding.
STC uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about STC:
* Coverage
* How to Get an STC SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
STC has the best coverage in Bahrain.
Coverage can be found basically anywhere in Bahrain.
Below is STC's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
You can buy an STC SIM starting from 7 BHD in STC stores. The data-only SIM card, called Prepaid Broadband Internet, is sold for 10.50 BHD. SIM cards are available at Bahrain International Airport as well.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is also possible to get an STC eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card. Upgrading from a standard SIM card to an eSIM will cost you 9 BHD.
Note that the Bahraini mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Bahrain without personal detail capturing, you can get the
Bahrain (Saar Mobile) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers & 5 GB/ 30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Airalo recently introduced an eSIM for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): Menalink. The Menalink eSIM follows the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries, the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.
The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 days – very popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
Sometimes, it can be more convenient and cheaper to get the Menalink eSIM than the local Airalo eSIM because Menalink offers more data (instead of you having to purchase multiple 1 GB/7 days top-ups to stay connected).
With the Menalink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in the Middle East and North Africa!
TIP: check out my Best Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Bahrain.
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
STC top-up vouchers are sold in STC stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.
The following top-up options are available:
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 0.50 BHD | 1 day |
| 1 BHD | 2 days |
| 1.50 BHD | 3 days |
| 2 BHD | 7 days |
| 3 BHD | 14 days |
| 5 BHD | 21 days |
| 6 BHD | 30 days |
| 6.50 BHD | 31 days |
| 7 BHD | 40 days |
| 8 BHD | 40 days |
| 10 BHD | 45 days |
| 15 BHD | 45 days |
| 20 BHD | 60 days |
| 25 BHD | 60 days |
| 30 BHD | 100 days |
To top up your STC SIM card, dial *100*VoucherCode# and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *100*123456#.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *101# to check your STC balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the My stc BH app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
STC has four data-featured prepaid plans:
All STC plans are eligible for 5G NR for an additional 5.25 BHD/month by buying a 3 GB 5G NR add-on.
I will list all the prices in BHD (Bahrani Dinar).
To convert BHD to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prepaid Plans – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The Prepaid Plans are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes.
Text the Activation Code to activate Prepaid Plans:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 BHD | Prepaid 7.5 | 9 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | N/A | 28 days | *222*56# |
| 8.5 BHD | Prepaid 8.5 International | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | 150 Minutes 2 | 28 days | *222*72# |
| 9.5 BHD | Prepaid 9.5 International | 16 GB | “Unlimited”, 10 GB 1 | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 250 Minutes 3 | 30 days | *222*61# |
1 Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 + 150 minutes to Bangladesh, 150 minutes to China, 40 minutes to Egypt, 20 minutes to Ethiopia, 35 inutes to GCC, 150 minutes to India, 100 minutes to Indonesia, 30 minutes to Jordan, 150 minutes to Malaysia, 30 minutes to Nepal, 90 minutes to Pakistan, 30 minutes to Philippines, 20 minutes to Russia, 150 minutes to Singapore, 30 minutes to Sri Lanka, 20 minutes to Sudan, 20 minutes to Syria, 70 minutes to Thailand, 25 minutes to the United Kingdom, 100 minutes to the United States, 20 minutes to Turkey & 35 minutes to Yemen
3 + 250 minutes to Bangladesh, 250 minutes to China, 65 minutes to Egypt, 35 minutes to Ethiopia, 60 inutes to GCC, 250 minutes to India, 160 minutes to Indonesia, 45 minutes to Jordan, 250 minutes to Malaysia, 55 minutes to Nepal, 150 minutes to Pakistan, 55 minutes to Philippines, 35 minutes to Russia, 250 minutes to Singapore, 50 minutes to Sri Lanka, 35 minutes to Sudan, 35 minutes to Syria, 120 minutes to Thailand, 40 minutes to the United Kingdom, 120 minutes to the United States, 30 minutes to Turkey & 60 minutes to Yemen
Single Use Unlimited Data Add-ons – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
Single Use Unlimited Data Add-ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons (with 5G NR access).
You can activate it by texting the Activation Code to 81172.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.047 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days | 43# |
| 5.238 BHD | 8 GB | 30 days | 57# |
| 10.476 BHD | 30 GB | 30 days | 82# |
Single Use Data Add-ons – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The Single Use Data Add-ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
You can activate it by texting the Activation Code to 81172.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 BHD | 1 GB | Until plan expires | 1# |
| 3.3 BHD | 3 GB | Until plan expires | 3# |
| 5.5 BHD | 20 GB | Until plan expires | 5# |
| 11 BHD | 50 GB | Until plan expires | 10# |
Gaming Add-on – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The Gaming Add-on are data add-on (with 5G NR access) for Gaming.
It can be activated by dialing *222*31#.
| Price | Gaming Data | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|
| 3 BHD | 10 GB | *222*31# |
APN/Internet Settings – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
- Name: STC
- APN: viva.bh
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Zain Bahrain
Zain Bahrain, just Zain, is the smallest mobile operator in Bahrain.
Although it was the first mobile operator to end Batelco's monopoly, it quickly fell behind STC Bahrain when STC from Saudi Arabia entered the Bahraini telecom market.
Now, it holds a steady market share of slightly below 30%.
Zain, as a company, is active in Africa (Sudan & South Sudan) & the Middle East.
Zain uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Zain:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Zain SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Zain Bahrain
Zain has extensive coverage in Bahrain.
Coverage can be found basically anywhere in Bahrain.
Below is Zain's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Zain Bahrain
You can buy a Zain SIM card, called eeZee Prepaid, starting from 6.30 BHD in Zain stores. The data-only SIM card, called Zain Prepaid Mobile Broadband, is available from 7.35 BHD. SIM cards are sold at Bahrain International Airport as well.
Dial *111# to see your Zain phone number.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Zain has no eSIMs.
Note that the Bahraini mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Bahrain (without personal detail capturing), you can get the
Bahrain (Saar Mobile) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers & 5 GB/ 30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Airalo recently introduced an eSIM for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): Menalink. The Menalink eSIM follows the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries, the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.
The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 days – very popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
Sometimes, it can be more convenient and cheaper to get the Menalink eSIM than the local Airalo eSIM because Menalink offers more data (instead of you having to purchase multiple 1 GB/7 days top-ups to stay connected).
With the Menalink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in the Middle East and North Africa!
TIP: check out my Best Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Bahrain.
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Zain Bahrain
Zain top-up vouchers are sold in Zain stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.
| Top-Up | Validity | eTop-Up Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.50 BHD | 1 day | 1 day |
| 1 BHD | 2 day | 3 days |
| 1.5 BHD | 3 days | 4 days |
| 2 BHD | 7 days | 9 days |
| 4 BHD | 17 days | 21 days |
| 5 BHD | 21 days | 26 days |
| 6 BHD | 30 days | 35 days |
| 6.50 BHD | 31 days | 37 days |
| 7 BHD | 40 days | 47 days |
| 8 BHD | 42 days | 49 days |
| 10 BHD | 45 days | 60 days |
| 20 BHD | 60 days | 120 days |
| 25 BHD | 60 days | 120 days |
| 30 BHD | 100 days | 210 days |
If you recharge online or use eTop-Up, the credit validity will be longer than topping up with regular refill cards.
To top up your Zain SIM card, dial *141*VoucherCode# and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *141*123456#.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *142# to check your Zain balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the ZAIN Bahrain app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Zain Bahrain
Zain has seven data-featured prepaid plans:
- eeZee Starter Packs (combo – act as starter SIM cards as well)
- Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages (combo)
- Unlimited Data Pass
- Data Pass
- Prepaid Mobile Broadband (data SIM card)
- Data Vouchers (data for Prepaid Mobile Broadband SIM card)
- Streaming Passes (data)
All Zain plans are eligible for 5G NR for an additional 5.25 BHD/month called the 5G pass.
However, Zain often has promotions that allow you to use 5G NR for free (such as when I am updating this guide in 2023).
I will list all the prices in BHD (Bahrani Dinar).
To convert BHD to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
eeZee Starter Packs – Zain Bahrain
The eeZee Starter Packs are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes.
These plans also act as starter packages for new Zain eeZee SIM cards.
These eeZee Starter Packs are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 BHD | eeZee | 9 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | N/A | 28 days | *123*23# |
| 8.5 BHD | Super eeZee | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | 150 minutes 2 | 28 days | *123*24# |
| 9.5 BHD | Social Media Monthly | “Unlimited”, 16 GB | “Unlimited”, 10 GB 1 | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 250 minutes 3 | 30 days | *123*97# |
| 40 BHD | eeZee Advance | “Unlimited”, 16 GB | “Unlimited”, 10 GB 1 | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 250 minutes 3 | 180 days | *123*98# |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIN, Skype, Snapchat Tango, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 + 150 minutes to Bangladesh, 150 minutes to China, 40 minutes to Egypt, 20 minutes to Ethiopia, 35 inutes to GCC, 150 minutes to India, 100 minutes to Indonesia, 30 minutes to Jordan, 150 minutes to Malaysia, 30 minutes to Nepal, 90 minutes to Pakistan, 30 minutes to Philippines, 20 minutes to Russia, 150 minutes to Singapore, 30 minutes to Sri Lanka, 20 minutes to Sudan, 20 minutes to Syria, 70 minutes to Thailand, 25 minutes to the United Kingdom, 100 minutes to the United States, 20 minutes to Turkey & 35 minutes to Yemen
3 + 250 minutes to Bangladesh, 250 minutes to China, 65 minutes to Egypt, 35 minutes to Ethiopia, 60 inutes to GCC, 250 minutes to India, 160 minutes to Indonesia, 45 minutes to Jordan, 250 minutes to Malaysia, 55 minutes to Nepal, 150 minutes to Pakistan, 55 minutes to Philippines, 35 minutes to Russia, 250 minutes to Singapore, 50 minutes to Sri Lanka, 35 minutes to Sudan, 35 minutes to Syria, 120 minutes to Thailand, 40 minutes to the United Kingdom, 120 minutes to the United States, 30 minutes to Turkey & 60 minutes to Yemen
The Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes focusing on unlimited data for select social media apps (Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIN, Skype, Snapchat Tango, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube).
These Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages are available:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | International Minutes 2 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.650 BHD | 2.5 GB | Unlimted 1 | Unlimited | 115 minutes | 7 minutes | 7 days | *777*78# |
| 6.6 BHD | 10 GB | Unlimted 1 | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 30 minutes | 1 month | *777*76# |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIn, Skype, Snapchat, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 to the GCC (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia & United Arab Emirates), Egypt & Yemen
Unlimited Data Pass – Zain Bahrain
The Unlimited Data Pass are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access). However, your can still browse the web at reduced speeds after exhausting your data allowance.
Unlimited Data Pass can be activated by dialing 44015#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.048 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 5.238 BHD | 8 GB | 30 days |
| 10.476 BHD | 30 GB | 30 days |
| 16.500 BHD | Unlimited | 30 days |
Data Pass – Zain Bahrain
The Data Pass are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access).
Data Pass can be activated by dialing *440#:
| Price | Data Pass | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.10 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 3.30 BHD | 4 GB | 7 days |
| 5.50 BHD | 8 GB | 15 days |
| 11 BHD | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 16.50 BHD | Unlimited | 30 days |
Prepaid Mobile Broadband – Zain Bahrain
The Prepaid Mobile Broadband plans are data bundles (with 5G NR access) for the Zain data SIM card.
Prepaid Mobile Broadband plans can be activated on the ZAIN Bahrain app:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5 BHD | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 11 BHD | 100 GB | 30 days |
Data Vouchers (Prepaid Mobile Broadband) – Zain Bahrain
The Data Vouchers are top-up cards that directly transform into data allowances exclusively for the Mobile Broadband SIM card.
Data Vouchers can be activated by dialing *125*VoucherCode#:
| Top-Up | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 1.5 BHD | 1.5 GB | 3 days |
| 2 BHD | 2 GB | 7 days |
| 4 BHD | 4 GB | 7 days |
| 5 BHD | 8 GB | 14 days |
| 6 BHD | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 6.50 BHD | 12 GB | 30 days |
| 7 BHD | 13 GB | 30 days |
| 8 BHD | 14.5 GB | 30 days |
| 8.5 BHD | 15.5 GB | 30 days |
| 10 BHD | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 20 BHD | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 25 BHD | 50 GB | 30 days |
| 30 BHD | 60 GB | 30 days |
Streaming Passes – Zain Bahrain
The Streaming Passes are data plans (with 5G NR access) for select streaming apps (Anghami, Netflix, Shadid, Spotify, TikTok & YouTube).
Streaming Passes can be activated by dialing *440#:
| Price | Plan | Data | App(s) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.143 BHD | Shadid Pass | Unlimited | Shadid | 30 days |
| 3.300 BHD | Streaming Pass | 20 GB | Anghami, Netflix, Shadid, Spotify, TikTok & YouTube | 30 days |
| 5.238 BHD | Netflix Pass | Unlimited | Netflix | 30 days |
| 5.238 BHD | YouTube Pass | Unlimited | YouTube | 30 days |
APN/Internet Settings – Zain Bahrain
- Name: Zain Internet
- APN: internet
- Username: internet
- Password: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Bahrain
Getting a SIM card from STC (VIVA) or Zain would do you well when considering a Bahraini SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other Middle Eastern Countries
Visiting other countries in the Middle East? Check out my Middle Eastern SIM card buying guide, covering other Middle Eastern countries, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).
Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).
Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience?
Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.
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A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
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Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!