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Bahrain: 3 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

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.

Buying a SIM Card in Bahrain Guide (logos of Batelco, STC & Zain)

Original publication: 18th of December 2019. Last updated: 14th of March 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

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).

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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.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

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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.

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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).

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Bahrain (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Bahrain (Saar Mobile) eSIM from Airalo.

Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have these three options:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.

For an in-depth analysis of the Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide.

You can also get Bahrain eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Middle East countries.

International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

For an in-depth analysis of the SimCorner Bahrain eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide.

With these eSIMs, you can skip Bahrain's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Bahrain!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Bahrain.

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 14 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.

Menalink Middle East North Africa (MENA) eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days & 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

  • Bahrain
  • Egypt
  • Iran
  • Iraq 1
  • Israel
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Morocco
  • Oman
  • Palestine 1
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Sudan
  • Tunisia 1
  • United Arab Emirates

1 on 3G only

Airalo Menalink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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 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) and my Best Bahrain eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Bahrain.

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.

Bahrain Travel SIM Card SimCorner
© SimCorner
Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 8 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner

The SimCorner Asia SIM card can be used in Bahrain and the following other countries:

  • Bahrain
  • Bangladesh
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Georgia
  • Guam
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Mongolia
  • Myanmar (Burma)
  • Nepal
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Philippines
  • Qatar
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Sri Lanka
  • Taiwan
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

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

Flag of Bahrain

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.

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Currency in Bahrain

20 Bahraini Dinar Bank Note
© Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB)/مصرف البحرين المركزي

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 = 265.30 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.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

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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 Logo
© 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.

Batelco Bahrain Prepaid Monthly Mobile Internet Starter Packs

The following Prepaid Monthly Internet Starter Packs (data-only SIM cards) are available:

PriceDataSpeed5G NR Access?
7.35 BHD10 GBUnrestrictedNo
10.50 BHD20 GBUnrestrictedNo
12.50 BHD200 GB@10 MbpsYes
17.75 BHD600 GBUnrestrictedYes
23 BHD1 TB@20 MbpsYes
37 BHD3 TBUnrestrictedYes
Batelco Bahrain Mobile Internet Plans
Batelco Bahrain eSIM
© Batelco
  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days & 5 GB/ 30 days).

Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.

You can also get Bahrain eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Middle East countries.

International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

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 14 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.

The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days & 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Airalo Menalink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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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-UpValidityeTop-Up Validity
1 BHD2 days3 days
2 BHD7 days9 days
3 BHD14 days17 days
4 BHD18 days21 days
5 BHD21 days26 days
6 BHD30 days35 days
7 BHD40 days47 days
8 BHD40 days47 days
10 BHD45 days60 days
12 BHD45 days45 days
20 BHD60 days120 days
30 BHD100 days210 days
Batelco Bahrain Prepaid Vouchers
© Batelco

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).

Batelco Bahrain App
© Batelco

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Batelco

Batelco has three data-featured prepaid plans:

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:

PricePlanDataLocal MinutesValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
4 BHDWeekly Package1.25 GB125 minutes7 daysW2DW2
7 BHDDaily Package0.5 GB/day (14 GB)20 minutes/day (560 minutes)28 daysBD7DBD7
7 BHDMonthly Package8 GB500 minutes1 monthM7DM7
8 BHDYouth Package10 GB 1200 minutes1 monthU8DU8
10 BHDMonthly Package+12 GB800 minutes 21 monthF10DF10

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.

Batelco Bahrain Prepaid Plans
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#:

PriceDataValidity
1 BHD1 GB3 days
2 BHD2 GB7 days
3 BHD3 GB7 days
4 BHD4 GB7 days
5 BHD8 GB14 days
6 BHD10 GB30 days
7 BHD14 GB30 days
10 BHD20 GB30 days
20 BHD40 GB30 days
30 BHD60 GB30 days
Batelco Bahrain Prepaid Mobile Internet Vouchers
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#:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
1 BHD1 GB3 daysUV1
5 BHD8 GB30 daysUV5
10 BHD30 GB30 daysUV30

APN/Internet Settings – Batelco

  • Name: Batelco
  • APN: internet.batelco.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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STC Bahrain (Formerly VIVA Bahrain)

STC Logo
© STC 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.

STC Bahrain SIM Card
© STC Bahrain
STC Bahrain eSIM
© STC Bahrain
  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days & 5 GB/ 30 days).

Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.

You can also get Bahrain eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Middle East countries.

International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

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 14 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.

The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days & 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Airalo Menalink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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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.

STC Bahrain Top Up Card
© STC Bahrain

The following top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
0.50 BHD1 day
1 BHD2 days
1.50 BHD3 days
2 BHD7 days
3 BHD14 days
5 BHD21 days
6 BHD30 days
6.50 BHD31 days
7 BHD40 days
8 BHD40 days
10 BHD45 days
15 BHD45 days
20 BHD60 days
25 BHD60 days
30 BHD100 days
STC Bahrain Recharge Card
© STC Bahrain

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.

STC Self Service Machine
© STC

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).

STC Bahrain My STC BH App
© STC Bahrain

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.

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:

PricePlanDataSocial Media DataOn-Net MinutesLocal/Off-Net MinutesInternational MinutesValidityActivation Code
7 BHDSTC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly 8 GB8 GBN/AN/A500 minutesN/A1 month*222*71#
7 BHDSTC Prepaid Daily Benefits 28 GB1 GB/day (28 GB)N/AN/A25 minutes/day (700 minutes)N/A28 days*222*13#
7.5 BHDSTC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly10 GB/22 GB 5Unlimited 1Unlimited200 minutesVarious 21 month*222*56#
8 BHDSTC Prepaid Data & Minutes Youth 10 GB 310 GB4 GB 4Unlimited200 minutesN/A1 month*222*72#
10 BHDSTC Prepaid Data & Minutes Monthly 15 GB15 GBN/AUnlimited500 minutesN/A1 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

STC Bahrain Prepaid Plans
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#.

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
5.25 BHD3 GB1 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#.

PriceDataValidity
1 BHD1 GBUntil plan expires
3 BHD3 GBUntil plan expires
5 BHD8 GBUntil 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#.

PriceYouTube DataValidityActivation Code
4.20 BHD2 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.

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Zain Bahrain

Zain Logo
© Zain

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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, 3 GB/ 30 days & 5 GB/ 30 days).

Bahrain Saar Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is unnecessary.

You can also get Bahrain eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Middle East countries.

International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

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 14 Asian countries & the super new Latamlink eSIM for 19 Latin American countries.

The Menalink eSIM comes in three variants: 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 days & 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, to be used in Bahrain and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Airalo Menalink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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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-UpValidityeTop-Up Validity
0.50 BHD1 day1 day
1 BHD2 day3 days
1.5 BHD3 days4 days
2 BHD7 days9 days
4 BHD17 days21 days
5 BHD21 days26 days
6 BHD30 days35 days
6.50 BHD31 days37 days
7 BHD40 days47 days
8 BHD42 days49 days
10 BHD45 days60 days
20 BHD60 days120 days
25 BHD60 days120 days
30 BHD100 days210 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).

Zain Bahrain App
© Zain Bahrain

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Zain Bahrain

Zain has eight data-featured prepaid plans:

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).

Zain Bahrain 5G Pass

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:

PricePlanDataSocial Media DataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesValidityActivation Code
3.15 BHD 4eeZee Prepaid Weekly1.25 GBN/AN/A100 minutes7 days*123*1#
4 BHD 4eeZee Weekly1.5 GBN/AN/A125 minutes7 days*123*4#
6.30 BHDeeZee Monthly7 GBN/AN/A500 minutes30 days*123*2#
7 BHDeeZee Daily Benefits1 GB/day (28 GB)N/AN/A25 minutes/day (700 minutes)28 days*123*77#
7 BHDeeZee Monthly9 GBN/AN/A500 minutes30 days*123*7#
8 BHDYouth eeZee Monthly 511 GB4 GB 1Unlimited200 minutes30 days*123*40#
8 BHDSuper eeZee Monthly13 GBUnlimited 2Unlimited200 minutes 330 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

Zain Bahrain eeZee Starter Packs
Local Weekly & Monthly Social Media Packages – Zain Bahrain

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:

PriceDataSocial Media Data 1On-Net MinutesLocal MinutesInternational MinutesValidityActivation Code
1.05 BHD3 GBN/AUnlimited115 minutes2 minutes 2/3 minutes 37 daysUnknown
1.575 BHD2.5 GBUnlimtedUnlimited115 minutes5 minutes 2/7 minutes 37 days*777*78#
4.20 BHD12 GBN/AUnlimited500 minutes12 minutes 2/15 minutes 31 monthUnknown
6.30 BHD10 GBUnlimtedUnlimited500 minutes25 minutes 2/30 minutes 31 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#:

PriceData PassValidity
1.05 BHD1 GB3 days
3.15 BHD4 GB7 days
5.25 BHD8 GB15 days
10.50 BHD20 GB30 days
15.75 BHDUnlimited30 days
Zain Bahrain Data Pass
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#:

PriceDataValidity
1 BHD1 GB3 days
5 BHD8 GB30 days
10 BHD30 GB30 days
15.75 BHDUnlimited30 days
Zain Bahrain Unlimited Data Pass
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:

PriceDataValidity
7.35 BHD10 GB30 days
8.40 BHD12 GB30 days
10.50 BHD20 GB30 days
Zain Bahrain Prepaid Mobile Broadband
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-UpDataValidity
1 BHD1 GB3 days
1.5 BHD1.5 GB3 days
2 BHD2 GB7 days
4 BHD4 GB7 days
5 BHD8 GB14 days
6 BHD10 GB30 days
6.50 BHD12 GB30 days
7 BHD13 GB30 days
8 BHD14.5 GB30 days
10 BHD20 GB30 days
20 BHD40 GB30 days
25 BHD50 GB30 days
30 BHD60 GB30 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#:

PricePlanDataApp(s)Validity
3 BHDShadid PassUnlimitedShadid30 days
3.15 BHDStreaming Pass20 GBAnghami, Netflix, Shadid, Spotify, TikTok & YouTube30 days
5 BHDNetflix PassUnlimitedNetflix30 days
5 BHDYouTube PassUnlimitedYouTube30 days
Zain Bahrain Streaming Passes
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:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation Code
4.20 BHDNetflix Bundle2 GB/day (60 GB)30 days*606*1#
4.20 BHDYouTube Bundle2 GB/day (60 GB)30 days*606*2#
Zain Bahrain YouTube & Netflix Top-ups

APN/Internet Settings – Zain Bahrain

  • Name: Zain Internet
  • APN: internet
  • Username: internet
  • Password: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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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.

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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 cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile 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!