What is a SIM-only plan in Saudi Arabia?
A SIM-only plan in Saudi Arabia is a mobile phone plan that includes minutes, texts, and data, but no new phone. You only pay for the services you use, making it a more flexible and cheaper option.
There are two main ways to pay for a SIM-only plan:
- Postpaid (Bill Pay): This is a monthly plan where you pay after using the service. It's great if you prefer not to pay upfront and enjoy the ease of monthly billing.
- Prepaid (Pay As You Go): You pay for your airtime in advance and recharge as needed. In Saudi Arabia, this is often called "الدفع المسبق."
SIM-only plans are usually cheaper than plans with a new phone because you're not spreading out the cost of a device. Just remember that prices might increase after any promotional period, but you can switch to a cheaper plan and keep your phone number.
What are the benefits of a SIM-only plan in Saudi Arabia?
A SIM-only postpaid plan is ideal if you already have a phone and don’t want to be stuck in a long contract. You’ll get monthly payments, but no new phone, and you may need to unlock your current device if it’s tied to another carrier.
A prepaid SIM is great if your usage changes from month to month or if you don’t want a monthly bill. With Pay As You Go, you can top up with data, calls, and texts whenever you need to.
Comparing Postpaid vs. Prepaid SIM-only plans in Saudi Arabia
Postpaid SIM-only:
- Perfect for people who use a lot of data
- Monthly billing, no upfront payment
- Flexible contracts
- You can keep your current number
Prepaid SIM-only:
- Great for budget-conscious people
- Pay for what you need upfront
- No credit checks
- Convenient for people without a bank account
How to compare SIM-only plans in Saudi Arabia
To get the best SIM-only plan, think about how you use your phone. Here are some questions to help you choose:
- Do you need unlimited data?
- How many calls and texts do you make?
- Do you need international calls or roaming?
- Would a prepaid SIM save you money if you’re a light user?
- Do you want a 12-month contract for security or the flexibility of a 30-day plan?
- Are you interested in 5G speeds? Check if there’s 5G coverage in your area.
After figuring out your needs, compare plans from top Saudi providers like STC, Mobily, and Zain to find the best fit.
What are the cheapest SIM-only plans in Saudi Arabia?
The cheapest plan isn’t always the best deal, so compare things like data allowance, contract type, and network coverage. Providers in Saudi Arabia often offer discounts on prepaid or postpaid plans, with flexible packages to choose from.
Use a comparison tool like Giraffy to find low-cost, flexible deals from STC, Mobily, and Zain.
Should you get a 5G data plan?
If you stream videos, play online games, or use video calling, and if you live in an area with 5G coverage, a 5G plan could be worth it. However, if you mostly use your phone for calls and messages, a 4G plan may be more cost-effective.
Can you get a SIM-only deal for international calls?
Yes, many Saudi providers offer international call packages with their SIM-only plans. These plans are great if you often call places like Egypt, India, or the UAE. Providers like STC and Mobily include international minutes or roaming options, though they might cost more.
How to switch your mobile provider in Saudi Arabia
Switching mobile providers in Saudi Arabia is simple. Pick a new plan, and your new provider will take care of everything, including transferring your number.
If you’re on a postpaid contract, make sure you’ve completed it to avoid fees. After paying your final bill, cancel any automatic payments or direct debits with your old provider.
SIM-only FAQs for Saudi Arabia
- Can I keep my mobile number with a new SIM card?
Yes, you can keep your number when switching to a new plan with any major Saudi provider. - How much data do I need for my SIM plan?
This depends on your usage. Heavy streamers might need unlimited data, while lighter users may only need 10-20GB per month. - Which is better: a 30-day or 12-month SIM-only contract?
A 30-day contract gives you flexibility, while a 12-month plan often has better rates. - Which providers offer SIM-only plans in Saudi Arabia?
The main providers are STC, Mobily, and Zain, with smaller providers offering competitive deals.