List of Mobile Networks in Saudi Arabia

Mobile networks in Saudi Arabia are operated by three major providers: Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Zain, and Mobily. The country’s mobile penetration rate is high, with over 80% of the population owning a mobile phone. Mobile networks in Saudi Arabia offer a wide range of services, including voice, text, and data services, as well as mobile banking and mobile payments. The country’s mobile networks have undergone significant improvements in recent years, with the introduction of 4G and 5G technology, resulting in faster internet speeds and improved connectivity.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at each of the three main mobile networks in Saudi Arabia, including their coverage and services.

Mobile Networks in Saudi Arabia and in the Middle East

Mobile networks in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East region have seen significant growth and development in recent years. The region has a high mobile penetration rate, with most of the population having access to mobile phones and mobile internet services. The mobile network operators in the region have invested heavily in expanding and upgrading their networks, including the deployment of 4G and 5G technology, which has led to faster internet speeds and improved connectivity.

Saudi Arabia has three major mobile network operators: Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Zain, and Mobily. These companies have invested in expanding their networks and improving their services, making mobile internet access widely available across the country.

In terms of mobile technology, the Middle East region is relatively advanced compared to other regions around the world. Many countries in the region have already rolled out 5G networks and are preparing for the deployment of 6G. The mobile operators have also invested in various services like internet of things (IoT), big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the customer experience and improve their network performance.

Additionally, mobile networks in the Middle East have been used to support the growth of e-commerce and digital payments, with mobile banking and mobile payment services becoming increasingly popular.

However, there are still challenges to overcome in the region, such as high mobile prices, low quality of service and lack of network coverage in certain areas. Governments in the region are taking steps to address these issues and promote competition in the mobile market.

Saudi Telecom Company (STC)

Saudi Telecom Company (STC) is one of the largest telecommunications companies in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. It offers a wide range of mobile services, including voice, text, and data services. The company has a strong network coverage, with 4G and 5G services available across most of the country.

STC offers various mobile packages to its customers, including prepaid and postpaid options. The prepaid packages include a variety of options, such as data-only plans and plans with a combination of voice and data. The postpaid plans offer more flexibility, with customers able to choose from different data allowances and call minutes. The company also offers various add-ons and international calling options, allowing customers to customize their plan to suit their needs.

STC also provides a range of value-added services, such as mobile banking and mobile payments, as well as enterprise services for businesses.

In terms of service quality, STC is generally considered to have a good reputation. The company has invested in upgrading its network infrastructure, resulting in fast internet speeds and improved connectivity. The company’s customer service is considered efficient, with various channels available for customers to contact them, such as phone, email, and social media.

Here are some of the main benefits of what STC has to offer:

• Extensive network coverage across Saudi Arabia, with fast internet speeds and improved connectivity.
• A variety of mobile packages and add-ons, allowing customers to tailor their plan to suit their needs.
• Enterprise services for businesses, which can help these companies improve their operations and stay competitive in the market.
• Advanced mobile payment app “STC Pay” that allows customers to make payments, recharge their credit, and manage their services.
• Cutting-edge services such as 5G and 6G networks, IoT, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) services that enhances the customer experience and improve network performance.
• Strong focus on innovation, consistently staying ahead of the competition.
• Efficient customer service with a variety of channels available for customers to contact them, such as phone, email, and social media.

How to Subscribe

1. Go to the Saudi Telecom Company website.
2. Click on the “Services” or “Subscribe” button.
3. Select the type of service you would like to subscribe to (e.g. mobile service, internet service, TV service).
4. Fill in the required information, such as your personal details and billing information.
5. Choose a plan that suits your needs and preferences.
6. Review and accept the terms and conditions.
7. Confirm your subscription by clicking on the “Subscribe” button.
8. You will receive a confirmation message or email with further instructions on how to activate your service.

Note: It’s always a good idea to double-check your personal information and plan details before completing your subscription.

Zain

Zain is a telecommunications company that offers a variety of packages for mobile services, including prepaid and postpaid options. In terms of coverage, Zain has a strong network that covers many areas across the country. They also offer 4G/LTE service in some areas. In terms of service quality, Zain is known for having reliable service and good customer support. However, like with any company, service quality can vary, and it’s always best to research and read reviews before signing up for a service.

Here are some of the main benefits of what Zain has to offer:

• Zain offers a wide range of mobile services packages, including prepaid and postpaid options
• A strong network coverage in many areas across the country
• Offers 4G/LTE service in some areas
• Zain is known for its reliable service and good customer support
• Offers a range of value-added services such as international roaming, data bundles, and more
• Zain’s self-service portal and mobile app allow customers to manage their accounts and services easily
• Offers competitive pricing and promotions
• Offers a wide range of devices and accessories available for purchase or upgrade
• Zain is a well-established company with a reputation for providing quality service.

How to Subscribe

Subscribing to the services of Zain is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps:

1. Choose the package that best suits your needs: Zain offers a wide range of mobile services packages, including prepaid and postpaid options. Review the different options and choose the one that best fits your usage needs.
2. Select a device or bring your own: You can choose to purchase a new device from Zain or bring your own compatible device.
3. Visit a Zain retail store or authorized dealer: You can visit a Zain retail store or authorized dealer to complete the subscription process. Bring a valid ID and proof of address with you.
4. Provide your personal information: You will need to provide your personal information, including your name, address, and ID number, to complete the subscription process.
5. Sign the contract and pay the deposit: If you are subscribing to a postpaid package, you will need to sign a contract and pay a deposit.
6. Activate your SIM card: Once the subscription process is complete, your SIM card will be activated and you will be able to use your new Zain service.
7. Manage your account: You can use Zain’s self-service portal or mobile app to manage your account, including checking your balance, adding data bundles, and more.

Mobily

Mobily is a telecommunications company in Saudi Arabia that offers a range of mobile, internet, and home services to its customers.

In terms of packages, Mobily offers a variety of options for mobile service, including prepaid and postpaid plans. These plans come with a range of data and call minutes, as well as added features such as international calling and roaming. Mobily also offers internet packages for both home and business use, which vary in terms of speed and data allowance.

In terms of coverage, Mobily claims to have extensive network coverage throughout Saudi Arabia, including in major cities and remote areas. The company also offers roaming services for customers traveling outside of the country.

In terms of service quality, Mobily is known for offering reliable and fast mobile and internet services. The company also has a customer service team available to assist customers with any issues or questions they may have. However, as with any company, service quality can vary depending on location and individual experiences.

Here are some of the main benefits of what Mobily has to offer:

• Mobily offers a wide range of mobile, internet, and home service packages, catering to different needs and preferences.
• The company claims to have extensive network coverage throughout Saudi Arabia, including in major cities and remote areas.
• Mobily offers roaming services for customers traveling outside of the country.
• The company has a customer service team available to assist customers with any issues or questions they may have.
• Mobily offers a variety of added features such as international calling and roaming.
• Mobily offers reliable and fast mobile and internet services.
• The company has a variety of options for mobile service, including prepaid and postpaid plans.
• Mobily offers internet packages for both home and business use, which vary in terms of speed and data allowance.
• Mobily has a strong reputation in the industry and a history of providing quality service to customers.
• The company is constantly innovating and upgrading its services to meet the changing needs of its customers.

How to Subscribe

1. Go to the Mobily website.
2. Click on the “Services” or “Subscribe” button.
3. Select the type of service you would like to subscribe to (e.g. mobile service, internet service, home services).
4. Fill in the required information, such as your personal details and billing information.
5. Choose a plan that suits your needs and preferences.
6. Review and accept the terms and conditions.
7. Confirm your subscription by clicking on the “Subscribe” button.
8. You will receive a confirmation message or email with further instructions on how to activate your service.
9. Some services may require a SIM card activation, in this case you’ll need to activate your SIM card by calling a specific number or visiting a Mobily store.

Note: It’s always a good idea to double-check your personal information and the details of your plan before completing your subscription.

Other Mobile Network Providers in Saudi Arabia

In addition to the major mobile network providers in Saudi Arabia such as Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Zain, and Mobily, there are also other smaller providers operating in the country. These include providers such as Lebara, Virgin Mobile, and Friendi Mobile. These providers often offer more specialized services, such as prepaid and pay-as-you-go plans, targeted at specific segments of the population. They also offer more affordable rates and services than the major providers. These smaller providers play an important role in the mobile network industry in Saudi Arabia, providing more options and competition for consumers, which ultimately results in better services and prices.

1. Lebara: Lebara is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that operates in Saudi Arabia. They offer a variety of international call and data plans, which are targeted at the expat and immigrant communities in the country. They offer affordable rates for international calls, as well as prepaid and pay-as-you-go plans that allow users to pay for only what they use. They also offer roaming services for when users travel abroad.
2. Virgin Mobile: Virgin Mobile is another MVNO that operates in Saudi Arabia. They offer prepaid and pay-as-you-go plans, as well as monthly plans for both voice and data services. One of their unique features is the ability to customize their plans to fit the specific needs of the user. They also offer mobile banking and mobile payment services, allowing users to make payments and transfer money through their mobile devices.
3. Friendi Mobile: Friendi mobile is another MVNO operating in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on providing affordable and flexible mobile plans. They offer prepaid and pay-as-you-go plans, as well as monthly plans for voice and data services. They also offer a range of international call plans, which are designed to save users money when making international calls. Friendi mobile also offers roaming services and mobile internet plans, which are designed to provide cost-effective solutions for users traveling abroad.

In summary, these three providers Lebara, Virgin Mobile, and Friendi Mobile offer services such as International call plans, Pay-as-you-go and prepaid plans, Roaming services, Mobile banking and mobile payments, Customizable plans and flexible plans, and cost-effective solutions for users traveling abroad.

6G in Saudi Arabia: What to Expect?

6G technology is the next generation of mobile network technology, and it’s already being researched and developed in countries like China, South Korea and Japan. In Saudi Arabia, the race to 6G has already begun, with the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) announcing its plans to launch 6G services in the country by 2030.

6G is expected to offer faster internet speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity compared to 5G. With 6G, users can expect download speeds of up to 1 terabit per second, which is 100 times faster than 5G. This means that large files, such as high-resolution videos, can be downloaded in seconds, and virtual and augmented reality applications will run smoothly.

Another key feature of 6G is its ability to connect a much larger number of devices compared to 5G. This means that the Internet of Things (IoT) will become more prevalent, with everything from appliances to cars being connected to the internet. This will lead to the creation of smart cities and the development of new technologies, such as autonomous vehicles.

Moreover, 6G technology is expected to enable the use of terahertz (THz) frequencies, which will allow for more accurate location tracking and higher-resolution imaging. This will be particularly useful for industries such as healthcare, transportation, and logistics.

6G technology will also be more energy-efficient compared to 5G, thanks to the use of advanced modulation techniques and beamforming. This means that devices will be able to run longer on a single charge, making them more convenient to use.

The launch of 6G in Saudi Arabia is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy, with the development of new technologies and the creation of new job opportunities. It will also improve the quality of life for citizens, with faster internet speeds and more connected devices.

6G technology is set to revolutionize the way we use the internet and connect with each other. Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a leader in the 6G race, with STC’s ambitious plans to launch 6G services by 2030. With faster internet speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity, 6G technology will bring new opportunities and advancements for both individuals and industries in Saudi Arabia.

Video: Anong Magandang gamiting Sim o Network sa Saudi?

In this video, an OFW-vlogger shares her thoughts on some of Saudi’s network providers. She cites the 3 main providers in STC, Zain, and Mobily. If you want to find out more on how each of these providers performed in terms of price, ease of subscription, service, and network coverage, then this video is for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What network providers are available in Saudi Arabia?

There are three main network providers in Saudi Arabia: Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Zain, and Mobily. All three providers offer voice and data services, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G.

2. Can I use my phone from another country in Saudi Arabia without any issues?

It depends on your phone’s compatibility with the local network frequencies. It’s best to check with your phone’s manufacturer or the network providers in Saudi Arabia to ensure that your device will work properly. You may also need to check if your phone is unlocked, as many phones are locked to a specific carrier.

3. Are there any international roaming options available for Saudi network providers?

Yes, all three network providers in Saudi Arabia offer international roaming services. However, it is important to check the rates and coverage areas before traveling, as charges can vary depending on the country you are visiting.

4. Are 4G and 5G services available in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, 4G and 5G services are available in Saudi Arabia. All three network providers have started to roll out their 5G networks in major cities, and the coverage is increasing.

5. What are the different prepaid and postpaid plans offered by Saudi network providers?

All three network providers offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including data-only plans and bundle plans that include voice and SMS services. The prices and available options can vary depending on the provider and the plan you choose. It’s best to visit the providers’ website to check the latest plans and prices.

6. How can I check my mobile data usage and remaining balance on a Saudi network?

You can check your remaining balance and data usage by dialing a specific code, usually 166# or 999#. You can also check your balance and usage through the provider’s mobile app or by logging into your account on the provider’s website.

7. Are there any special deals or discounts available for students or elderly customers?

It depends on the provider. Some providers may offer special discounts and deals for students, elderly customers, or other specific groups. It’s best to check with the provider directly to see if there are any current promotions or deals that may apply to you.

8. Can I purchase and activate a SIM card upon arrival in Saudi Arabia or do I need to have one before arriving?

You can purchase and activate a SIM card upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. You will need to provide a valid ID or passport to purchase a SIM card. Some providers may require a local sponsor or a residence permit to activate the SIM card. it’s best to check the policies with the provider you are interested in.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the mobile network industry in Saudi Arabia is competitive and well-developed, with three major providers offering a wide range of services to meet the needs of the country’s population. The high mobile penetration rate and the introduction of 4G and 5G technology have resulted in faster internet speeds and improved connectivity for users. With the race to 6G already underway, we can expect even more advancements and improvements in the future, making the mobile network experience in Saudi Arabia even more convenient and efficient for its citizens.

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