Batelco SIM Cards and eSIM 2024: a Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Daisy Rodriguez

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Latest update: August 2024

Batelco is one of the leading telecommunication providers in Bahrain. This guide aims to provide you with useful information about Batelco, why it’s a great choice for travelers, the best connectivity options offered by Batelco, where you can purchase Batelco SIM cards and eSIM plans, how to activate and use them, and other important details that tourists should know.

I. Overview about Batelco – What you need to know

Batelco is the principal telecommunications company in Bahrain. 

• Full name: Bahrain Telecommunication Company BSC

• Founded: 1981

• Services: Fixed-line telephone, Mobile telephony and Broadband

• Subcribers: 36% subscription-based market share, 76% market share in fixed lines and 82% in fixed broadband in 2022

• Awards: MEA Technology Achievement Awards, Glotel Award (2022),  New Design/Build Data Centre Project of the Year at the 2020 DCS Awards,…

II. Batelco Coverage in Bahrain

Batelco users has a 3G or better connection over 98% of the time

Strengths:

• Extensive 4G/LTE: Covers most urban centers like [city 1] and [city 2], providing fast internet to a large population.
• Growing 5G Network: Available in select areas like [area 1], showing commitment to future technology.

Weaknesses:

• Limited 5G Reach: 5G is not as widespread as 4G/LTE, indicating it’s still in early stages.
• Rural Coverage Gaps: Some areas likely have limited or no 4G/5G, potentially disadvantaging those residents.

III. Batelco Speed in Bahrain

Currently its speed ranks on the place 1 from 12 providers in Bahrain (Results based on tests from 03.10.2023 to 03.04.2024).

The image provides information about Batelco’s internet speed in Bahrain, not its coverage area. Let’s break down what these speeds mean:

• Download Speed: 68.21 Mb/s
  • This refers to how fast you can download data from the internet. 68.21 Mb/s is considered a very good download speed. It allows for smooth streaming of HD video, online gaming, and quick file downloads.
• Upload Speed: 28.25 Mb/s
  • This measures how fast you can send data to the internet. 28.25 Mb/s is also a good upload speed. It enables fast file uploads, video conferencing, and online gaming without significant lag.

IV. Does Batelco Have eSIM in Bahrain?

Yes absolutely. An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile data plan without having to use a physical SIM card. Now with Batelco, customers can get their eSIM easily and can activate up to 3 new mobile numbers under one CPR per month.

V. Top Batelco SIM Cards for Tourists

You can get a Batelco SIM card called SimSim from Batelco stores starting at just 4 BHD! If you’re looking for a SIM card specifically for internet usage, Batelco offers the Batelco Prepaid Monthly Internet SIM card starting from 7.35 BHD. You can also find these SIM cards at Bahrain International Airport. So, whether you need a regular SIM or a data-only SIM, Batelco has you covered!

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

VI. Where to Buy a Batelco SIM card and eSIM?

If you’re visiting Bahrain and looking to purchase Batelco SIM cards or eSIMs, here’s where you can find them:

1. Where to Buy Batelco SIM Card for Bahrain?

• At Bahrain International Airport: You can find Batelco stores in Bahrain Airport. They offer new SIM cards and top-up services.

• Batelco Stores: There are many official Batelco stores throughout Bahrain. These stores are great for tourists, as the staff can help you set up your plan and assist you with any questions.

• Other Retailers: You can also find Batelco SIM cards from many partner retailers across Bahrain

2. Where to Buy Batelco eSIM for Bahrain?

If you’re looking to purchase Batelco eSIM plans in Bahrain, you have a few convenient options:

• Batelco Website: Existing customers can log into their Batelco account online and purchase eSIM plans directly from the website.

• Batelco App: If you’re already a Batelco customer, you can download the Batelco app on your phone and easily obtain an eSIM through the app.

• Third Party Resellers: Companies like GIGAGO offer the option to buy Bahrain eSIMs without requiring prior registration. This is especially useful for first-time tourists who may not have local registration details.

Gigago is well-known worldwide as one of the top eSIM providers, and they have plans available for over 200 countries and regions, including Bahrain.

For Bahrain, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $6.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Bahrain eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $6.90 – $19.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Bahrain, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VII. How to Top-up Batelco SIM/eSIM

To top-up Batelco SIM Card, you can follow general instructions below

• Visit the official Batelco website or download the Batelco mobile app

• Navigate to the “Bill Payment/Refill” section. 

• Click on the “Top Up” or “Refill” your prepaid Batelco SIM card.

• Select your Batelco SIM card or mobile number that you want to top up.

• Choose the amount or denomination you wish to top up your Batelco SIM card with. 

• Proceed to the payment section. 

• Verify your payment details and complete the transaction. 

VIII. Alternatives to Batelco Bahrain

Batelco is a network operator with good service experience in Bahrain. Visitors can also refer to Zain Bahrain – also a long-standing network communication company in Bahrain.

With Bahrain, visitors can experience a variety of packages with more diverse and reasonable prices than Batelco. Services are also listed with a public, appropriate price list so customers can choose and compare prices to best suit their needs. Isn’t it wonderful? Explore more about Zain Bahrain and you won’t regret it!

IX. FAQs about Batelco in Bahrain

Getting a Batelco SIM card and eSIM provides excellent connectivity through your Bahrain trip for great value. Hopefully this guide has provided helpful information for your upcoming Batelco vacation!