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

Kuwait – known for its incredible cityscape, producing oil, and, perhaps the most fun one, camel racing.

The country also has fun beaches.

But what else can you do in Kuwait?

You can enjoy an incredible view from the Kuwait Towers.

If you are not into heights, perhaps a stroll through the Al Shaheed Park will be enjoyable.

Or you can visit plenty of museums and cultural centers, including the Kuwait National Museum or Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Center.

Honestly, there is no reason to be bored in Kuwait, I would say.

Do note that Kuwait 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 Kuwait 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 Kuwait?

Kuwaiti SIM cards are available from 5 KWD (Ooredoo & Zain – 16.35 USD), 6 KWD (19.60 USD) all the way up to 85 KWD (Ooredoo 1 year SIM with data and minutes – 277.55 USD) in their stores. Starter SIM cards often include credit, data & minutes. SIM cards are also sold at Kuwait International Airport.

Okay, those are not the cheapest SIM card prices out there (in fact, they are above average).

At least these starter SIM cards include benefits.

But, what if I told you that the average cost of 1 GB of data is less than 1 USD in Kuwait?

Shocking, right!? Especially because you have to hand over some serious cash for starter kits.

But that is because the Kuwaiti mobile operators are GENEROUS with their data allowances.

More than one mobile operator offers a plan with 1 TB – that is 1024 GB!

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Kuwait. Let’s do this.

Buying a SIM Card in Kuwait Guide (logos of Zain, STC & Ooredoo)

Original publication: 25th of December 2019. Last updated: 30th of May 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

Can You Buy a SIM Card in Kuwait?

Anyone 18 years old or older living in or visiting Kuwait can buy a Kuwaiti SIM card from the mobile network operators (Zain, Ooredoo & STC) with no restrictions.

You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 Kuwait).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Kuwait?

You can get a Kuwaiti SIM card in Zain, Ooredoo & STC stores. It is also possible to get SIM cards at Kuwait International Airport.

You can expect to pay the following for Kuwaiti SIM cards:

  • Zain Kuwait: 6 KWD
  • Ooredoo Kuwait: 5 KWD (regular), 7 KWD (regular & data-only), 55 KWD (data-only) & 85 KWD (regular)
  • STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait): 5 KWD (regular) & 7 KWD (data-only)

For up-to-date KWD:your currency (let's say INR) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

  • 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
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Can You Use Your Phone in Kuwait?

Kuwait uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Kuwait. 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 Kuwait, 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 Kuwait.

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 Kuwait 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 Kuwait (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Kuwait

Kuwait has three mobile network operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • Zain Kuwait
  • Ooredoo Kuwait
  • STC Kuwait (Formerly VIVA Kuwait)

The following frequencies are used in Kuwait:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in Kuwait, 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 Kuwait

Commercial 5G NR has been available in Kuwait since June 2019. It is available on the Zain Kuwait, Ooredoo Kuwait & STC Kuwait (VIVA Kuwait) networks. However, 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

Best SIM Card in Kuwait

If you want to buy the best SIM card in Kuwait, I recommend going with Zain or Ooredoo. Zain is, overall, the best mobile operator in the country. Ooredoo has the fastest speeds.

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Best eSIM in Kuwait

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM to prepaid customers in Kuwait yet.

Note that the Kuwaiti 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 Kuwait.

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 six best eSIMs for Kuwait:

Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Kuwait, 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 Kuwait, you better check out my Kuwait eSIM buying guide.

It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.

Buying an eSIM for Kuwait Guide (Airalo, Holafly, Simcorner & Liberation Mobile)

SIM Card Registration in Kuwait

SIM card registration with your passport information is mandatory in Kuwait. It will be done at the point of purchase.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Internet Censorship in Kuwait

There is internet censorship in Kuwait. 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 Kuwait.

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 Kuwait (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 Kuwait!

(oh, by the way – VPNs are not illegal in Kuwait, 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… and especially not the royal family).

Kuwait Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of Kuwait

The telecom market in Kuwait has changed a bit between the previous update of this guide, October 2020, to the current version, October 2021.

Yes, I update my guides about once a year – sometimes, even more often ;)

Something that has barely changed is the mobile data rates in the country.

The average price for 1 GB of data in Kuwait is 0.81 USD, far below the Middle Eastern average of 3.94 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.

Kuwait is one of the three countries in the Middle East where the average cost of 1 GB of data is less than 1 USD.

Moreover, it is also one of the 53 countries globally where the same applies.

But before you get too excited, the prices for the plans and packages are… quite high.

Nevertheless, you do get A LOT of data with most plans – data allowances are generous in Kuwait.

That is something that has not changed in the country.

One thing that has changed significantly is the average mobile download speed in Kuwait.

Previously, the average mobile download speed was 56 Mbps, which placed Kuwait in the top 15 countries with the fastest mobile speeds.

Now, with a more widespread rollout of 5G NR around the world, global speeds have gone up – also in Kuwait.

But by how much? By a lot – 2.5x to be exact.

Kuwait's average mobile download speed is around 141 Mbps, placing the nation in the top 10 fastest countries.

Currently, only the United Arab Emirates (196 Mbps) and Saudi Arabia (150 Mbps) have faster mobile download speeds in the Middle East.

Even then, Kuwait is doing well because there are only 14 countries worldwide with faster average mobile download speed over 100 Mbps (although Oman (98 Mbps), Sweden (97 Mbps) & the United States (96 Mbps) may join the club soon too).

Kuwait Average Mobile Data Speeds Compared 2020 2021

But, you may not fully enjoy these fast speeds because 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

Hopefully, that will change soon. But how soon? I cannot tell.

Earlier, I mentioned that Ooredoo Kuwait is the fastest. But how much?

In the latest Kuwait Speedtest Awards (Q1-Q2 2021), Ooredoo Kuwait has a mean download speed of 108.08 Mbps, followed by Zain Kuwait (106.11 Mbps) and STC Kuwait (93.32 Mbps).

Those are all impressive numbers!

The fastest mobile download speed can be found in Sabah Al Salem (134 Mbps), Followed by Jabriya (131 Mbps) and Jahra (118 Mbps).

Overall, speed is not something to worry about in Kuwait ;)

With reasonably priced SIM cards, close to perfect nationwide coverage, blazing-fast mobile speeds, and (indirect) insanely low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Kuwait.

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Currency in Kuwait

10 Kuwaiti Dinnar Bank Note
© Central Bank of Kuwait/بنك الكويت المركزي

Kuwait uses the Kuwaiti Dinar with the symbol KWD (which will be used throughout this article).

Prices in Kuwait are listed in KD or د.ك. For example, 25 KWD is KD/د.ك 25.

For reference, below are some exchange rates between KWD and USD (US Dollars – Rounded):

  • 1 KWD = 3.30 USD
  • 10 KWD = 32.65 USD
  • 100 KWD = 326.55 USD

For up-to-date KWD:your currency (let's say INR – Indian Rupee) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

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!

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Kuwaiti Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through Zain Kuwait, Ooredoo Kuwait & STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait), 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 Kuwait to offer to us.


Zain Kuwait

Zain Logo Silver
© Zain

Zain Kuwait, just Zain, is the largest mobile operator in Kuwait.

It is also the second-fastest mobile operator in the country, just behind Ooredoo Kuwait.

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: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid

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 Kuwait

Zain has the best coverage in Kuwait.

4G/LTE reception can be found basically anywhere in the country.

However, 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

Below is Zain's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Zain Kuwait

You can buy a Zain SIM card, called eeZee Prepaid, starting for 6 KWD in Zain stores. The data-only SIM card, called Prepaid Data Internet, costs 7 KWD. SIM cards are also sold at Kuwait International Airport.

Zain Kuwait eeZee SIM Card
© Zain Kuwait

The following two starter packs are available:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesInternational MinutesValidity
6 KWD100 GBUnlimited100 minutes100 minutes30 days
6 KWD200 GBUnlimited60 minutes60 minutes30 days
Zain Kuwait SIM Card Starter Kits
  • 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 Kuwaiti mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

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

Kuwait Liberation Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have two options:

  1. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data only).

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

Finally, you also get Kuwait eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Kuwait 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for Kuwait (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

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 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, to be used in Kuwait and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data 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 Best Kuwait 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 Kuwait

Zain top-up vouchers are sold in Zain stores and Smart Branches or many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations & grocery stores.

The following top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
1.50 KWD7 days
3 KWD15 days
5 KWD30 days
10 KWD90 days
20 KWD180 days
25 KWD365 days

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 KW app (Android/iOS).

Zain Kuwait Zain KW App
© Zain Kuwait
Extra Validity – Zain Kuwait

It is possible to extend the validity of your SIM card and credit without having to top-up extra with the Extra Validity feature.

The following Extra Validity options are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 999:

PriceValidityActivation Code
1 KWD15 daysv1
3 KWD60 daysv2
5 KWD120 daysv3
13 KWD365 daysv4
Zain Kuwait Extra Validity

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Zain Kuwait

Zain has four data-featured prepaid plans:

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Special Bundles – Zain Kuwait

The Special Bundles are combo plans with data and minutes.

Special Bundles can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 999:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesInternational MinutesValidityActivation Code
9 KWD25 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutesN/AN/A30 daysR7
9.50 KWD5 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutesN/A25 minutes30 daysR6
11.50 KWD25 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutesN/A25 minutes30 daysR9
14 KWD50 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutes500 minutesN/A30 daysR8
19 KWD200 GB 1“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutes“Unlimited”, 9000 minutes minutes25 minutes30 daysR10

1 +”Unlimited” (100 GB) streaming data for streaming apps (including but not limited to Dailymotion, Netflix & YouTube)

Zain Kuwait eeZee Bundles Special Bundles
Internet Bundles – Zain Kuwait

The Internet Bundles are, unlike the name suggests, combo plans with data and minutes.

The following Internet Bundles, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 999:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation Code
5 KWD5 GBN/AN/AUnlimited30 daysR1
8 KWD25 GBN/AN/AUnlimited30 daysR2
12 KWD50 GBN/AN/AUnlimited30 daysR3
16 KWD100 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutesN/AUnlimited30 daysR4
18 KWD200 GB“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutes“Unlimited”, 9000 minutes minutesUnlimited30 daysR5
Zain Kuwait eeZee Bundles Internet Bundles

You can also add additional benefits to your Internet Bundles.

Do note that the price and availability of additional bundles differ per Internet Bundle.

Zain Kuwait eeZee Bundles Internet Bundles Additional Benefits
eeZee Flexi – Zain Kuwait

eeZee Flexi is a customizable bundle that allows you to set how much data and how many (international) minutes you want.

Additionally, additional benefits can be added in the form of unlimited social media, WhatsApp & YouTube data.

Each eeZee Flexi plan needs to cost at least 5 KWD. However, no other minimum requirements are imposed.

You can select:

Be aware that an eeZee Flexi plan can only be set up on the Zain KW app (recommended) or online.

Zain Kuwait eeZee Flexi Plan
Example plan
eeZee Flexi Data – Zain Kuwait

The data options for eeZee Flexi start from 5 GB (3 KWD) to 200 GB (15 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceData
3 KWD5 GB
5 KWD10 GB
8 KWD25 GB
12 KWD50 GB
15 KWD200 GB
eeZee Flexi (On-Net Minutes) – Zain Kuwait

The on-net minutes options for eeZee Flexi start from 100 minutes (1.5 KWD) to unlimited – 43 200 minutes (4 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceOn-Net Minutes
1.50 KWD100 minutes
2 KWD200 minutes
3 KWD500 minutes
4 KWD“Unlimited”, 43 200 minutes
eeZee Flexi (Local Minutes) – Zain Kuwait

The local minutes options for eeZee Flexi start from 50 minutes (1.5 KWD) to unlimited – 9000 minutes (6 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceLocal Minutes
1.50 KWD50 minutes
2 KWD100 minutes
3 KWD200 minutes
4 KWD500 minutes
6 KWD“Unlimited”, 9000 minutes minutes
eeZee Flexi (International Minutes) – Zain Kuwait

The international minutes options for eeZee Flexi start from 10 minutes (1.5 KWD) to unlimited – 120 minutes (8 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceInternational Minutes
1.50 KWD10 minutes
3 KWD30 minutes
5 KWD60 minutes
8 KWD120 minutes
eeZee Flexi (Additional Benefits) – Zain Kuwait

The additional benefits for eeZee Flexi include unlimited data for Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat & Twitter – 1 TB for 2 KWD), WhatsApp (1 TB for 2 KWD) & YouTube (2 KWD for 1 TB).

Extra GB's – Zain Kuwait

The Extra GB's are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

The following Extra GB's are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 999:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
2 KWD1 GB30 dayso9
5 KWD30 GB30 dayso10

APN/Internet Settings – Zain Kuwait

  • Name: Zain Kuwait
  • APN: hsapps

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Ooredoo Kuwait

Ooredoo Logo
© Ooredoo

Ooredoo Kuwait, just Ooredoo, is the second-largest mobile operator in Kuwait.

It is the fastest mobile operator in the country.

Ooredoo, as a company, is active in Northern Africa, Southeast Asia & the Middle East.

Ooredoo uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid (yet)

This is what you will learn about STC:

* Coverage
* How to Get an Ooredoo SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Ooredoo Kuwait

Ooredoo has extensive coverage throughout Ooredoo.

4G/LTE reception can be found basically anywhere in the country.

However, 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

Below is Ooredoo’s coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Ooredoo Kuwait

You can buy an Ooredoo SIM card, called Xpress or Xpress Internet, starting from 5 KWD to 85 KWD in Ooredoo stores and kiosks. SIM cards are also sold at Kuwait International Airport.

Ooredoo Kuwait Xpress SIM Card
© Ooredoo Kuwait
Ooredoo Kuwait Xpress Internet SIM Card
© Ooredoo Kuwait

The following SIM cards are available:

PriceCreditDataLocal MinutesSIM Card TypeValidity
5 KWD5 KWDN/AN/ARegular30 days
7 KWD7 KWDN/AN/ARegular20 days
7 KWDN/A24 GBN/AData-Only30 days
55 KWDN/A100 GB/month (1200 GB)N/AData-Only12 months
85 KWDN/A25 GB/month (300 GB)150 minutes/month (1800 minutes)Regular12 months
  • 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 Ooredoo eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.

Ooredoo Kuwait eSIM
© Ooredoo Kuwait

Note that the Kuwaiti mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

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

Kuwait Liberation Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have two options:

  1. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data only).

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

Finally, you also get Kuwait eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Kuwait 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for Kuwait (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

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 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, to be used in Kuwait and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data 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 Best Kuwait 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

You can also join Ooredoo ANA, a premium brand (as per Ooredoo itself), to get access to exclusive plans, including one that allow you to create your own plan (select data, unlimited data for select apps & (international) minutes).

Ooredoo Kuwait ANA Logo
© Ooredoo Kuwait

While you can order an Ooredoo ANA SIM card online, the fastest way to switch to ANA is by getting a regular SIM card and moving it over to ANA on the My Ooredoo Kuwait app.

Ooredoo Kuwait ANA SIM Card
© Ooredoo Kuwait

Transferring from Ooredoo to ANA is free.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Ooredoo Kuwait

Ooredoo top-up vouchers are sold in Ooredoo stores and kiosks or many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations & grocery stores.

The following (online) top-up options are available:

RechargeValidity
1.50 KWD7 days 
2 KWD10 days
3 KWD15 days 
4 KWD *15 days 
5 KWD30 days
6 KWD *30 days
7 KWD *30 days
8 KWD *30 days
9 KWD *30 days
10 KWD90 days 
12 KWD *90 days 
16 KWD *90 days 
20 KWD180 days
25 KWD365 days 

* online only

Ooredoo Kuwait Recharge Cards
© Ooredoo Kuwait

To top up your Ooredoo SIM card, dial *111*VoucherCode# and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *111*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 *555# to check your Ooredoo balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Ooredoo Kuwait app (Android/iOS).

Ooredoo Kuwait My Ooredoo Kuwait App
© Ooredoo Kuwait
Extra Validity – Ooredoo Kuwait

It is possible to extend the validity of your SIM card and credit without having to top-up extra with the Extra Validity feature.

The following Extra Validity options are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 500:

PriceValidityActivation Code
1 KWD10 daysv1
3 KWD30 daysv2
5 KWD60 daysv3
12 KWD180 daysv4
Ooredoo Kuwait Extra Validity

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Ooredoo Kuwait

Ooredoo has four data-featured prepaid plans:

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Xpress Bundles – Ooredoo Kuwait

The Xpress Bundles are combo plans with data and minutes.

Xpress Bundles can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 500:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesValidityActivation Code
6 KWD6 GBN/A100 minutes30 daysB2
9 KWD30 GBN/A150 minutes30 daysB3
12 KWD50 GBUnlimited300 minutes30 daysB4
16 KWD100 GBUnlimited3000 minutes30 daysB5
18 KWD200 GBUnlimitedUnlimited30 daysB8
Ooredoo Kuwait Xpress Bundles
ANA Plans – Ooredoo Kuwait

The ANA Plans are combo plans with data and minutes exclusively for Ooredoo ANA.

ANA Plans can be activated on the My Ooredoo Kuwait app:

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesInternational MinutesValidity
5 KWDANA Basic Plan Offer30 GBUnlimited50 minutes10 minutes30 days
6 KWDANA Talkers15 GBUnlimited500 minutesN/A30 days
6 KWDANA Surfers50 GBUnlimited50 minutesN/A30 days
6 KWDANA All-In-One100 GBUnlimited 1100 minutes100 minutes30 days
6 KWDANA Cyber Offer200 GBUnlimited 160 minutes60 minutes30 days

1 also to Ooredoo Kuwait numbers

Ooredoo Kuwait ANA Plans
Customizable ANA Plans – Ooredoo Kuwait

The Customizable ANA plans are, as the name implies, customizable plans that allows you to set how much data and how many (international) minutes you want.

Additionally, Extras can be added in the form of unlimited social media, WhatsApp & YouTube data.

Ooredoo Kuwait ANA Plan
Example plan

Each Customizable ANA Plan needs to cost at least 6 KWD. However, no other minimum requirements are imposed.

You can select:

Be aware that an eeZee Flexi plan can only be set up on the My Ooredoo Kuwait app (recommended) or online.

Customizable ANA (Data) – Ooredoo Kuwait

The data options for Customizable ANA start from 5 GB (1 KWD) to 1 TB (20 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceData
1 KWD5 GB
2 KWD15 GB
3 KWD30 GB
5 KWD50 GB
9 KWD100 GB
14 KWD250 GB
20 KWD1 TB
Customizable ANA (Local Minutes) – Ooredoo Kuwait

The on-net minutes options for Customizable ANA start from 50 minutes (1 KWD) to unlimited minutes (10 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceLocal Minutes
1 KWD50 minutes
2 KWD100 minutes
3 KWD300 minutes
4 KWD500 minutes
5 KWD1000 minutes
10 KWDUnlimited
Customizable ANA (International Minutes) – Ooredoo Kuwait

The international minutes options for Customizable ANA start from 10 minutes (1 KWD) to 100 minutes (10 KWD).

Below are your options:

PriceInternational Minutes
1 KWD10 minutes
2.50 KWD20 minutes
4 KWD30 minutes
6 KWD50 minutes
10 KWD100 minutes
Customizable ANA (Extras) – Ooredoo Kuwait

The Extras for Customizable ANA include unlimited data for Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat & Twitter for 1.5 KWD), WhatsApp (1 KWD) & YouTube (2 KWD).

Xpress Add-Ons – Ooredoo Kuwait

The Xpress Add-Ons are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

The following Xpress Add-Ons are available:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
0.25 KWD 11 GB24 hours250
3 KWD 215 GB30 daysApp only

1 auto-renews
2 also for Xpress Internet SIM card

APN/Internet Settings – Ooredoo Kuwait

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for Ooredoo Kuwait SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text HELP ANDROID or HELP IPHONE to 121 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

  • Name: Ooredoo Kuwait
  • APN: action.ooredoo.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

STC Logo
© STC

STC Kuwait, just STC and formerly known as VIVA Kuwait, is the smallest mobile operator in Kuwait.

It is also the newest entrant to the Kuwaiti telecom market.

Its small market share may change in the future because the mobile operator is going all-in 5G NR, having the best 5G NR availability in the country and worldwide (together with T-Mobile USA).

Unfortunately, 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

STC stands for Saudi Telecom Company and is, of course, from Saudi Arabia.

The mobile operator was known as VIVA Kuwait 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: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid

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 Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

STC has extensive coverage throughout Kuwait.

4G/LTE reception can be found basically anywhere in the country.

However, 5G NR is not available to prepaid customers (yet).

But it currently has the best 5G NR availability in the world, together with T-Mobile USA, even winning the OpenSignal 5G Global Winner Award.

Below is STC’s coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

You can buy an STC SIM card, called Allo, for 5 KWD with 5 KWD credit for 30 days in STC stores (1/2/3/4/5/6). The data-only SIM card, called Prepaid Internet SIM, costs 7 KWD with 30 GB for 30 days. SIM cards are also sold at Kuwait International Airport.

STC Store
© STC Kuwait
  • 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

STC has no eSIMs.

Note that the Kuwaiti mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

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

Kuwait Liberation Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have two options:

  1. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Kuwait/Liberation Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data only).

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

Finally, you also get Kuwait eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Kuwait 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for Kuwait (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

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 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, to be used in Kuwait and 14 other Middle Eastern and Northern African countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in May based on data up to the 17th of May (2023 data 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 Best Kuwait 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 Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

STC top-up vouchers are sold in STC stores (1/2/3/4/5/6) and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations & grocery stores.

The following top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
2 KWD10 days
3 KWD15 days
5 KWD30 days
10 KWD90 days
20 KWD180 days
25 KWD365 days
STC Recharge Cards
© STC Kuwait

To top up your STC SIM card, dial *500*VoucherCode# and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *500*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 *555# to check your STC balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the mystc KW app (Android/iOS).

STC Kuwait mystc KW App
© STC Kuwait
Get Validity (Extra Validity) – Zain Kuwait

It is possible to extend the validity of your SIM card and credit without having to top-up extra with the Get Validity feature.

The following Get Validity options are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 510:

PriceValidityActivation Code
1 KWD15 days61
4 KWD3 months62
7 KWD6 months63
13 KWD12 months64

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

STC has three data-featured prepaid plans:

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Allo Local Plans – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

The Allo Local Plans are combo plans with data and minutes.

Allo Local Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 510:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesValidityActivation Code
5 KWD5 GB100 minutesN/A30 days12
8 KWD25 GB150 minutesN/A30 days13
12 KWD50 GB“Unlimited”, 15 000 minutes300 minutes30 days14
18 KWD200 GB“Unlimited”, 15 000 minutes“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes30 days15
STC Kuwait Local Plans
Internet Booster – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

The Internet Booster is a 15 GB data add-on for Allo SIM cards. It costs 3 KWD and can be activated by texting 33 to 510. It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
3 KWD15 GB30 days33
Extra GB Booster – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

The Extra GB Booster is a 15 GB data add-on for the data-only cards. It is also the only plan available for this SIM card.

The Extra GB Booster costs 3 KWD and can be activated by texting 93 to 510. It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
3 KWD15 GB30 days93

APN/Internet Settings – STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA Kuwait)

  • Name: STC Kuwait
  • APN: VIVA

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Kuwait

Getting a SIM card from Zain or Ooredoo would do you well when considering a Kuwaiti 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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Get updates related to the newest guides, videos & recommended products and services.

Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.

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Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone?

A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!