Buy SIM card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia can be a crucial step for travelers visiting the city, providing access to reliable communication and internet services.
This guide is tailored for travelers to Riyadh, offering insights from local experts on the best options when you buy SIM card in Riyadh. Readers can expect to learn about the top mobile carriers, competitive SIM card plans, and the most convenient locations to acquire a SIM card, as well as alternative solutions like eSIM cards for those seeking a hassle-free experience.
In this article
Buying SIM card in Riyadh is a smart and essential option for travelers exploring the city to stay connected. When compared to other connectivity options, a traditional SIM card in Saudi Arabia offers various benefits:
Riyadh has three big mobile network operators: STC, Mobily, and Zain. Let’s check out how these operators stack up in Riyadh when it comes to coverage, speed, reliability, popularity, and tourist-friendly plans:
| Criteria | STC | Mobily | Zain |
| Coverage | Excellent nationwide coverage | Widespread coverage across Riyadh | Good coverage, with some gaps in rural areas |
| Speed | Fastest 5G and 4G LTE networks | Reliable 4G LTE speeds | Slightly slower than STC and Mobily |
| Reliability | Consistently stable and dependable | Generally reliable, with occasional service disruptions | Reliable, but may experience more interruptions than the top two |
| Popularity | Most widely used network in Riyadh | Second-largest market share | Third-largest provider in the city |
| Tourist Plans | Wide range of prepaid SIM card options with generous data allowances and validity | Competitive prepaid plans for tourists, including data-focused packages | Limited tourist-specific SIM card offerings compared to STC and Mobily |
► Recommendation: STC and Mobily are top choices for travelers in Riyadh, offering excellent coverage, reliable high-speed internet, and various prepaid SIM card options tailored for tourists.
Best Riyadh SIM cards are usually covered by major mobile network operators in Saudi Arabia, which are STC, Mobily, and Zain. Here are the top SIM card plans and prices of these network carriers.
STC Prepaid SIM Card Plans:
Mobily Prepaid SIM Card Plans:
Zain Prepaid SIM Card Plans:
Note: Plans and prices may change, so travelers should verify current offerings before buying a SIM card in Riyadh
The best places to buy a SIM card in Riyadh include the airport and the city center.
Purchasing a SIM card at Riyadh Airport is a convenient option for many travelers. To buy a SIM card at the airport, you’ll need to have the following ready:
Pros:
Cons:
You can find SIM card stores and shops at different spots in Riyadh Airport. These stores are run by big network providers like STC, Mobily, and Zain, so you can easily grab one.
In addition to purchasing a SIM card at Riyadh Airport, travelers can also buy one in the city center.
Pros:
Cons:
Travelers can find SIM card vendors in Riyadh at the following locations:
► Our Recommendation: For a hassle-free experience, consider getting a SIM card at Riyadh Airport or an eSIM online before your trip. An eSIM offers easy setup and connectivity upon arrival, no store visit necessary. Just check your device’s eSIM compatibility before opting for this.
For travelers with eSIM-supported devices, opting for an eSIM card in Riyadh offers:
Travelers can purchase eSIM plans for Riyadh from several providers:
Using an eSIM is a convenient choice for travelers in Riyadh, especially those who want to skip buying a physical SIM card upon arrival.
When buying a SIM card in Riyadh, travelers should prepare:
Here are some valuable tips for buying a SIM card in Riyadh:
Yes, even for short visits, a local SIM card can provide reliable internet access and affordable communication, enhancing your overall travel experience.
Yes, you can use your home country SIM card in Riyadh, but you may incur high roaming charges. A local SIM card is generally more cost-effective.
Prepaid SIM card prices in Riyadh range from around $4 to $15, depending on the data allowance and validity period.
STC and Mobily are generally considered to have the most extensive and reliable coverage across Riyadh, with Zain being the third-largest provider.
Getting a SIM card in Riyadh is a must for travelers in the city. It gives you reliable internet, affordable communication, and the convenience of staying connected.
With various network options, good deals, and easy purchase spots like the airport and downtown, finding the right SIM card in Riyadh is a breeze. Whether you go for a regular SIM card or an eSIM, you’ll be all set to enjoy your time in Riyadh.
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