Prepaid Kuwait SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

Harper Thomas

|

Published: September 2024

When visiting Kuwait, securing a prepaid Kuwait SIM card is essential for ensuring smooth communication and access to mobile services.

This guide provides a thorough overview of Kuwait SIM cards tailored for tourists. You’ll discover the top choices, pricing details, and where to purchase these SIM cards. We’ll also explore eSIM alternatives, the types of SIM cards available, and important preparations before buying. Additionally, the guide covers activation steps and the duration of SIM card validity during your stay.

I. What are the Best Kuwait SIM Cards for Tourists?

Good to know: 1.000 KWD = 3.273 USD (August 2024)

There are three mobile carriers in Kuwait:

• Zain 
• Ooredoo
• STC

Here are the best SIM card options for tourists in Kuwait:

1. Zain SIM Cards

Online Exclusive Plans

eeZee Ready Made Plans

► Visit Zain’s official website for the latest updates.

2. Ooredoo SIM Cards

► Visit Ooredoo’s official website for the latest updates.

3. STC SIM Cards

► Visit STC’s official website for the latest updates.

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Kuwait for Tourists?

You can buy SIM cards in Kuwait for tourists online, at airports, or in cities. Here are the details:

1. Buy Kuwait SIM Card Online

Where: Online marketplaces like eBay or official provider website.

Suitable for: Travelers who want to purchase a SIM card before arriving in Kuwait and avoid the hassle of buying one at the airport or in the city.

How to buy: Visit the website, choose your plan, and pay online. The SIM card will then be delivered to your hotel or address in Kuwait.

Pros: Quick and convenient since you can avoid going to a store, plus English support is available. 

Cons: Activating the SIM card may take longer, and limited data plan options exist.

2. Buy Kuwait SIM card at the airport

Where: Kuwait International Airport (KWI) – at the arrivals hall, near the baggage claim area, and at the airport’s telecom shops (Zain, Ooredoo, and Viva).

Procedures to buy a SIM card at the airport:

• Present your passport to register personal information
• Take a portrait photo for identification purposes
• Fill out a registration form
• Pay for the SIM card and data package

Suitable for: Travelers who want to purchase a SIM card immediately upon arrival in Kuwait.

Pros: Easy location, fast SIM activation, and English-speaking support.

Cons: Registration might take longer, with few data plan options.

3. Buy SIM Card in Kuwait’s Cities

Where: Kuwait City – at the telecom shops (Zain, Ooredoo, and Viva) and electronic stores (e.g., Xcite, Eureka) in the city center.

Suitable for: Travelers in Kuwait City who want to purchase a SIM card.

Pros: More data plans, affordable prices, and English support. 

Cons: Finding a store and registering may take longer.

III. How Much is a Tourist Kuwait SIM Card?

The cost of a tourist SIM card in Kuwait can vary depending on the provider and selected package. Here’s a detailed breakdown, with conversions to USD based on the rate of 1 KWD = 3.273 USD:

1. Zain Kuwait:

• Price: Starts at 6 KWD (~$19.64) for a basic prepaid SIM. 
• Packages: For 5 KWD (~$16.37), get 100 GB of data and 100 local minutes; for 6 KWD (~$19.64), get 250 GB and 250 local minutes.

2. Ooredoo Kuwait:

• Price: Starts at 5 KWD (~16.37 USD) for a basic SIM card. 
• Packages: Options include a standard prepaid SIM for 5 KWD, a regular and data-only SIM for 7 KWD (~22.91 USD), and larger data plans up to 85 KWD (~278.21 USD).

3. STC Kuwait (formerly VIVA):

• Price: Also starts at 5 KWD (~ 16.37 USD) for a basic SIM card.
• Packages: Includes a basic SIM at 5 KWD and a data-only SIM at 7 KWD (~ 22.91 USD).

These prices are common for SIM cards bought directly from providers in their stores, at the airport, or through authorized sellers. Buying a SIM card at Kuwait International Airport may cost a bit more than in the city.

IV. What types of Kuwait SIM cards are available for tourists?

There are two main types of SIM cards available for tourists in Kuwait:

• Prepaid SIM 
• Tourist eSIM

Comparison Table

In conclusion, while prepaid SIM cards are easily accessible and cheaper, eSIMs offer greater convenience and are easier to set up. For tourists who want a good experience, an eSIM might be the better option.

V. Do I need a SIM card to travel to Kuwait?

YES, you’ll need a SIM card to use your phone while traveling in Kuwait. Here’s why getting an international SIM card is usually a smart choice:

• Saves money: International SIM cards often have lower rates than roaming.
• Better signal: Local providers have networks that work well in the country.
• Faster internet: You’ll connect to local 4G/5G networks.
• Flexible options: Easy to add more money and choose plans that work for you.

If your phone uses eSIM technology, you can choose an eSIM, which is easy and safe. eSIMs are simple to set up since you don’t need a physical card. They let you switch between different plans easily and are more secure because there’s less chance of losing or breaking a SIM card.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Kuwait?

To buy a SIM card in Kuwait, make sure you have the following:

• A valid passport (not a photocopy)
• A copy of your Kuwait visa (if you’re a tourist or expat)
• Your phone’s IMEI number (dial *#06# to find it)
• Proof of address in Kuwait (such as a hotel reservation or rental agreement)
• A KWD 5-10 (~ $16-$33 USD) deposit, which will be refunded when you cancel your SIM card

Unique requirements:

• Tourists should buy an eSIM (if their phone allows) to skip registration. 
• Residents need to show their Civil ID (or “Bataka”) to register a SIM card. 
• Some telecom companies in Kuwait may require a minimum subscription period or balance to activate your SIM.

VII. Kuwait eSIM – Alternative to Tourist SIM cards

One of the most reliable and biggest eSIM retailers in the market is Gigago. We offer a wide range of eSIM plans for 200+ countries, including Kuwait.

For Kuwait, Gigago’s eSIM offers the following key features:

• Instant delivery of the eSIM via email
• Easy installation with a QR code
• No need to register or provide any documents
• 24/7 customer support
• Coverage on Kuwait’s best 4G LTE network
• No surprise bills or hidden fees

For Kuwait, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 7 days with $5.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Kuwait eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.00 – $44.00 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are or how long your trip is in Kuwait; with Gigago, there is always an option for you.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Kuwait?

A tourist SIM card in Kuwait typically lasts 30 days. This validity period is consistent across popular providers such as Zain, Ooredoo, and STC. 

Whether you’re using Zain’s eeZee SIM, Ooredoo’s ANA plans, or STC’s go plans, your SIM card will remain active for 30 days, providing ample time to stay in the country.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Kuwait?

Step 1: Buy a SIM card from an authorized telecom provider or retailer 

Step 2: Insert the SIM card into your mobile device 

Step 3: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the new SIM card 

Step 4: Follow the on-screen prompts or dial the activation number provided with your SIM card 

Step 5: Provide any required personal information and identification as per local regulations 

Step 6: Choose a plan or package that suits your needs 

Step 7: Wait for confirmation of activation, which usually happens within a few hours

X. FAQs

XI. Conclusion

I hope you find this post helpful for understanding Kuwait SIM cards! Whether you go for a prepaid SIM or an eSIM, staying connected is super easy. For a quick and hassle-free setup, give Gigago’s Kuwait eSIM a shot to start using mobile data immediately. Don’t forget to check out Gigago’s plans to stay connected during your trip!