Best Mobile and Internet Plans for Expats in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Best Mobile and Internet Plans for Expats in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Whether you're new to Saudi Arabia or have been here for a while, staying connected is essential. From communicating with family back home to accessing mobile banking, work emails, and entertainment, a reliable mobile and internet connection is a must.

This guide covers everything expats need to know about mobile and internet services in the Kingdom. We’ll compare the major providers, help you choose between prepaid and postpaid plans, and offer tips to save money while getting the best value.

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📶 Major Telecom Providers in Saudi Arabia

There are three major telecom companies offering mobile and internet services:

  • STC (Saudi Telecom Company): The largest and most reliable provider, with excellent coverage even in remote areas.
  • Mobily: Known for competitive pricing and fast internet speeds.
  • Zain: Popular among expats for its affordable prepaid and unlimited data options.

Each provider offers prepaid (pay-as-you-go) and postpaid (monthly billing) services with 4G and growing 5G coverage in urban areas.

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📱 Prepaid Mobile Plans

Prepaid plans are ideal for expats who want flexibility without a contract. You can easily top up your balance or buy a data bundle using mobile apps, ATMs, or local shops.

Popular Prepaid Plans (2025):

Provider Plan Price (SAR) Data Validity
STC Sawa 30 30 1GB + 100 min 1 week
Mobily Mobily Prepaid 75 75 5GB + 500 min 4 weeks
Zain Weekly Unlimited 40 Unlimited Data 7 days

Tip: Use the provider's app to check balance, recharge credit, and activate new bundles.

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📄 Postpaid Mobile Plans

If you stay in Saudi Arabia long-term and prefer unlimited calls and larger data packages, postpaid plans may be more suitable. These usually require a valid Iqama and a credit check.

Top Postpaid Offers (2025):

  • STC Postpaid 170: 100GB data + unlimited calls for SAR 170/month
  • Mobily Postpaid 100: 30GB data + 1000 min for SAR 100/month
  • Zain Postpaid Unlimited: Unlimited everything for SAR 345/month

Most postpaid plans come with a 12-month or 24-month contract. Check for hidden fees before signing up.

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💻 Home Internet Services

When it comes to home Wi-Fi, you’ll have three main choices: fiber optics, 4G/5G routers, or mobile hotspot tethering.

Fiber Internet:

  • STC Jawwy Fiber: Starts at SAR 287/month for 100 Mbps
  • Mobily Fiber: From SAR 299/month for 100 Mbps
  • Zain Fiber: Available in select areas

4G/5G Routers:

For areas without fiber coverage, a portable router using a SIM card may be the best option. Providers offer unlimited data bundles at varying speeds.

  • STC Quicknet Unlimited: SAR 325/month
  • Zain 5G Router Unlimited: SAR 299/month

Installation Tip: Many apartments include Wi-Fi in the rent, but speeds may vary. Always run a speed test before committing.

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🌍 International Calls and Roaming

If you need to stay in touch with family abroad, check for discounted international minutes or use VoIP apps (Zoom, WhatsApp, Skype). Note that some services may be restricted without a VPN.

Best International Options:

  • Zain International Bundles: 100 minutes to India, Pakistan, Philippines for SAR 25
  • STC Roaming Packages: Starts at SAR 99 for GCC countries
  • Use Wi-Fi calling: Many expats rely on Wi-Fi for free VoIP calls
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💡 How to Choose the Right Plan as an Expat

Ask yourself:

  • Do I need unlimited data or just occasional use?
  • Will I mostly use Wi-Fi at home and work?
  • Do I make international calls often?
  • Do I prefer prepaid flexibility or postpaid convenience?

Pro Tip: Prepaid is safer and more flexible for new arrivals. Once settled, you can switch to postpaid for better value.

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⚙️ How to Register a SIM Card

Due to Saudi regulations, SIM cards must be registered under your Iqama. Visit a provider’s store with your ID, or use the **Absher** app for digital approval.

  • Bring: Iqama + mobile number
  • You can only register a limited number of SIMs per Iqama

Tip: Don’t use someone else’s SIM. It can cause problems with Iqama renewals or digital services.

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📲 Mobile Apps You’ll Need

Each provider offers an official app to help manage your account:

  • STC – MySTC
  • Mobily App
  • Zain KSA

You can recharge, pay bills, and buy data through these apps—no need to visit stores.

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📌 Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of mobile and internet options for expats. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly prepaid plans or fast fiber internet at home, you'll find a solution that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Looking for more essential expat tips? Don’t miss our guide on Banking and Managing Money in Saudi Arabia.

Getting a Driver’s License for Men and Women in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide).

— My Life in Saudi

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