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 (18.60 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: 13th of April 2022.
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:
- 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 Will My Phone Work (may be outdated or inaccurate at times).
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 (13.25 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
You can get the Bahrain (Saar Mobile) eSIMs from Airalo.
You have these three options:
- Bahrain/Saar Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 days
- Bahrain/Saar Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Bahrain/Saar Mobile 5 GB eSIM for 30 days
With these eSIMs, you can skip Bahrain's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Bahrain!
TIP: Check out my eSIM lookup tool for an overview of local mobile operators offering eSIMs to prepaid customers and travel eSIMs I use and love (for eSIMs in Bahrain and eSIMs worldwide).
Best International/Travel SIM Card for Bahrain
If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Bahrain, I recommend going with SimCorner's Bahrain Travel SIM card with 1 GB of data for 30 days. Consider SimCorner's Asia SIM card with 6 GB of data for 8 days to be used in Bahrain and 20+ countries, including neighboring Jordan, Oman & Qatar.
The SimCorner Asia SIM card can be used in Bahrain and the following other countries:
Instead of spending between 5 USD to 15 USD for SIM cards in each country, get a SimCorner travel SIM card covering numerous countries for just one price!
Use discount code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings!
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 = 265.40 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 Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
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:
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 |
It is also possible to get a Batelco eSIM for 3.15 BHD.
To use a Batelco eSIM, you need to have one of the following devices:
- Google Pixel 4/4a/5
- Huawei P20 Pro/Mate 40 Pro
- iPhone SE
- iPhone XR/XS/XS Max
- iPhone 11/11 Pro/11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12/12 Mini/12 Pro/12 Pro Max
- Microsoft Surface
- Samsung Galaxy Fold LTE Model
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20+
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra/20 Ultra 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20/S20+/S20 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G/S21 Ultra 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G
Batelco SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 120 days (no top-up for 120 days or no activity for 120 days).
However, you will lose your credit after 90 days of no activity.
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 plans:
- Prepaid Packages (combo)
- Prepaid Mobile Internet Vouchers (data)
- Add-Ons (data)
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.
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 and minutes.
Prepaid Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 88188:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation Code | Deactivation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 BHD | Weekly Package | 1.25 GB | 125 minutes | 7 days | W2 | DW2 |
| 7 BHD | Daily Package | 0.5 GB/day (14 GB) | 20 minutes/day (560 minutes) | 28 days | BD7 | DBD7 |
| 7 BHD | Monthly Package | 8 GB | 500 minutes | 1 month | M7 | DM7 |
| 8 BHD | Youth Package | 10 GB 1 | 200 minutes | 1 month | U8 | DU8 |
| 10 BHD | Monthly Package+ | 12 GB | 800 minutes 2 | 1 month | F10 | DF10 |
1 10 GB for WhatsApp, + 10 GB for Snapchat on the 3rd month, +10 GB for Instagram on the 6th month & +10 GB for YouTube (23:00 – 7:00) on the 9th month
2 +800 local SMS
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 | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 2 BHD | 2 GB | 7 days |
| 3 BHD | 3 GB | 7 days |
| 4 BHD | 4 GB | 7 days |
| 5 BHD | 8 GB | 14 days |
| 6 BHD | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 7 BHD | 14 GB | 30 days |
| 10 BHD | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 20 BHD | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 30 BHD | 60 GB | 30 days |
Add-Ons – Batelco
The Add-Ons are data-only plans.
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 | 30 days | UV5 |
| 10 BHD | 30 GB | 30 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:
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.
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.
To use an STC eSIM, you need to have one of the following devices:
- iPhone XS/XS Max
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 12 Mini/12 Pro
- Huawei P40 Pro
- Samsung Galaxy Fold 2
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G
STC SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 120 days (no top-up for 120 days or no activity for 120 days).
However, you will lose your credit after 90 days of no activity.
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 plans:
- Prepaid Plans (combo)
- 5G Add-On For Prepaid Mobile Plans (as the name implies)
- Mobile Data Addons (as the name suggests)
- YouTube Addon (as the name indicates)
All STC plans are eligible for 5G NR for an additional 5.25 BHD/month by buying a 3 GB 5G NR add-on.
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 and minutes.
These Prepaid Plans are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Media Data | On-Net Minutes | Local/Off-Net Minutes | International Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 BHD | STC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly 8 GB | 8 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | N/A | 1 month | *222*71# |
| 7 BHD | STC Prepaid Daily Benefits 28 GB | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | N/A | N/A | 25 minutes/day (700 minutes) | N/A | 28 days | *222*13# |
| 7.5 BHD | STC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly | 10 GB/22 GB 5 | Unlimited 1 | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Various 2 | 1 month | *222*56# |
| 8 BHD | STC Prepaid Data & Minutes Youth 10 GB 3 | 10 GB | 4 GB 4 | Unlimited | 200 minutes | N/A | 1 month | *222*72# |
| 10 BHD | STC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly 15 GB | 15 GB | N/A | Unlimited | 500 minutes | N/A | 1 month | *222*61# |
1 TikTok only
2 30 minutes to Bangladesh, 30 minutes to India, 30 minutes to Nepal, 30 minutes to Pakistan & 10 minutes to Sri Lanka
3 for those between 16 and 24 years old only
4 Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp & YouTube
5 STC is not clear with the data allowance. One page says 10 GB, while another page says 22 GB
5G Add-On For Prepaid Mobile Plans – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The 5G Add-On For Prepaid Mobile Plans is, as the name implies, a 5G NR data add-on.
It costs 5.25 BHD and gives you 3G over 5G NR for 1 month. You can activate it by dialing *98037#.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.25 BHD | 3 GB | 1 month | *98037# |
Mobile Data Addons – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The Mobile Data Addons are, as the name implies, data-only add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Mobile Data Addons can be purchased by dialing *124#.
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 1 GB | Until plan expires |
| 3 BHD | 3 GB | Until plan expires |
| 5 BHD | 8 GB | Until plan expires |
YouTube Addon – STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)
The YouTube Addon is, as the name indicated, a data-only add-on for YouTube.
For 4.20 BHD, you get 2 GB/day (60 GB) for 30 days to be used for YouTube streaming. It can be activated by dialing *222*31#.
| Price | YouTube Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.20 BHD | 2 GB/day (60 GB) | 30 days | *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:
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.
Zain SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 120 days (no top-up for 120 days or no activity for 120 days).
However, you will lose your credit after 90 days of no activity.
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 eight data-featured plans:
- eeZee Starter Packs (combo – act as starter SIM cards as well)
- Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages (combo)
- Data Pass (as the name implies)
- Unlimited Data Pass (as the name suggests)
- Prepaid Mobile Broadband (data for data-only SIM card)
- Data Vouchers (data for Prepaid Mobile Broadband SIM card)
- Streaming Passes (as the name implies)
- Youtube & Netflix Top-Ups (as the name suggests)
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 2021).
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, minutes & SMS.
These plans also act as starter packages for new Zain eeZee SIM cards.
These eeZee Starter Packs are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Media Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.15 BHD 4 | eeZee Prepaid Weekly | 1.25 GB | N/A | N/A | 100 minutes | 7 days | *123*1# |
| 4 BHD 4 | eeZee Weekly | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | 125 minutes | 7 days | *123*4# |
| 6.30 BHD | eeZee Monthly | 7 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | 30 days | *123*2# |
| 7 BHD | eeZee Daily Benefits | 1 GB/day (28 GB) | N/A | N/A | 25 minutes/day (700 minutes) | 28 days | *123*77# |
| 7 BHD | eeZee Monthly | 9 GB | N/A | N/A | 500 minutes | 30 days | *123*7# |
| 8 BHD | Youth eeZee Monthly 5 | 11 GB | 4 GB 1 | Unlimited | 200 minutes | 30 days | *123*40# |
| 8 BHD | Super eeZee Monthly | 13 GB | Unlimited 2 | Unlimited | 200 minutes 3 | 30 days | *123*8# |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 for TikTok
3 +30 minutes to Bangladesh, 30 minutes to India, 30 minutes to Nepal, 30 minutes to Pakistan & 10 minutes to Sri Lanka
4 only for Zain lines sold before the 15th of December 2020
5 for those between 16 and 24 only
The Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages are combo plans with data and minutes focusing on unlimited data for select social media apps (Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIn, Skype, Snapchat, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube).
These Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages are available:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 1 | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.05 BHD | 3 GB | N/A | Unlimited | 115 minutes | 2 minutes 2/3 minutes 3 | 7 days | Unknown |
| 1.575 BHD | 2.5 GB | Unlimted | Unlimited | 115 minutes | 5 minutes 2/7 minutes 3 | 7 days | *777*78# |
| 4.20 BHD | 12 GB | N/A | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 12 minutes 2/15 minutes 3 | 1 month | Unknown |
| 6.30 BHD | 10 GB | Unlimted | Unlimited | 500 minutes | 25 minutes 2/30 minutes 3 | 1 month | *777*76# |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Line, LinkedIn, Skype, Snapchat, Twitter, Viber, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 to United Kingdom & United States
3 to the GCC (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia & United Arab Emirates), Egypt & Yemen
Data Pass – Zain Bahrain
The Data Pass are data-only plans.
Data Pass can be activated by dialing *882#:
| Price | Data Pass | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.05 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 3.15 BHD | 4 GB | 7 days |
| 5.25 BHD | 8 GB | 15 days |
| 10.50 BHD | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 15.75 BHD | Unlimited | 30 days |
Unlimited Data Pass – Zain Bahrain
The Unlimited Data Pass are data-only plans. However, your can still browse the web at reduced speeds after exhausting your data allowance.
Unlimited Data Pass can be activated by dialing *882#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BHD | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 5 BHD | 8 GB | 30 days |
| 10 BHD | 30 GB | 30 days |
| 15.75 BHD | Unlimited | 30 days |
Prepaid Mobile Broadband – Zain Bahrain
The Prepaid Mobile Broadband plans are data-only bundles for the Zain data SIM card.
Prepaid Mobile Broadband plans can be activated on the ZAIN Bahrain app:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 7.35 BHD | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 8.40 BHD | 12 GB | 30 days |
| 10.50 BHD | 20 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 |
| 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-only plans 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 BHD | Shadid Pass | Unlimited | Shadid | 30 days |
| 3.15 BHD | Streaming Pass | 20 GB | Anghami, Netflix, Shadid, Spotify, TikTok & YouTube | 30 days |
| 5 BHD | Netflix Pass | Unlimited | Netflix | 30 days |
| 5 BHD | YouTube Pass | Unlimited | YouTube | 30 days |
YouTube & Netflix Top-Ups – Zain Bahrain
The YouTube & Netflix Top-Ups are data-only bundles for Netflix and YouTube.
These YouTube & Netflix Top-Ups are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.20 BHD | Netflix Bundle | 2 GB/day (60 GB) | 30 days | *606*1# |
| 4.20 BHD | YouTube Bundle | 2 GB/day (60 GB) | 30 days | *606*2# |
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.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Bahrain
I would highly encourage anyone visiting Bahrain to get themselves a Bahraini SIM card – you will be saving a lot of money when you do so.
However, for some, getting a Bahraini SIM card is not an option.
For example, your device may be SIM-locked, meaning that you cannot use any other SIM card other than the SIM card provided by your operator.
There are other ways to stay online while in Bahrain, but they may not be cheap.
International Roaming
International roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected when traveling in other countries because you do not have to buy a new SIM card, have to deal with SIM card registration regulations, nor have multiple phone numbers to deal with.
However, international roaming has proven to be expensive in many cases, especially compared to buying local SIM cards.
That is why many travelers are not fond of international roaming.
International roaming has its pros and cons. However, it is important to know how it works. This in-depth guide explains it all.
Find out whether your mobile operator has attractive roaming rates for Bahrain here.
Using an International SIM Card or Travel SIM Card
International SIM cards are SIM cards made for the traveler in mind. Using them is often cheaper than international roaming.
However, they are almost always more expensive than using a local SIM card.
There are many other advantages and disadvantages of getting international SIM cards, which you can learn about here.
Using a Mobile Hotspot (Pocket WIFI)
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local mobile operators of the country you are visiting.
Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Using Free WIFI Networks
Using free WIFI connections is the cheapest way to stay connected because they are free.
The major downside of trying to use WIFI hotspots is that you will have to locate them, and they are not available on every corner in Bahrain.
Make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN so that hackers cannot steal your personal data.
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, and 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, and 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, and 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!
Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter
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Let's Be Social
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Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is
Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!