Whether you’re a tourist visiting Bahrain’s historic sites or an expat settling into life in Manama, staying connected is essential. The easiest and most affordable way to do that? A prepaid SIM card. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a prepaid SIM in Bahrain from coverage and frequencies to biometric registration and tourist SIMs.
Basics
A prepaid SIM card in Bahrain allows you to use voice, SMS, and data services by paying in advance. No contracts. No credit checks. Just plug in, top up, and connect. It’s ideal for:
- Tourists visiting for a few days or weeks
- Foreign workers and expats without residency yet
- Locals who prefer cost control and flexibility
Bahrain’s telecom market is open and competitive, giving you access to great deals from top providers.
Frequencies
Before buying a SIM, make sure your phone is unlocked and supports the following Bahraini network frequencies:
| Network | Frequency Bands |
|---|---|
| 2G | 900, 1800 MHz |
| 3G | 2100 MHz |
| 4G/LTE | 1800, 2100 MHz |
| 5G | 3500 MHz (n78) |
Note: Most modern smartphones work fine in Bahrain. Just check your device supports 4G LTE Band 3 and Band 1 for optimal speed.
Coverage & Speed
Bahrain boasts excellent mobile coverage nationwide—even in smaller towns and coastal areas. All major operators offer nationwide 4G, and 5G is rolling out quickly in major cities like Manama, Riffa, and Muharraq.
Here’s a quick look at coverage:
| Operator | Coverage Quality | 5G Available? |
|---|---|---|
| Batelco | Excellent (urban & rural) | ✅ Yes |
| Zain Bahrain | Very Good | ✅ Yes |
| stc Bahrain | Very Good | ✅ Yes |
Download speeds often exceed 100 Mbps on 5G and 30–60 Mbps on 4G, depending on the plan.
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Batelco | Zain Bahrain | stc Bahrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist SIM? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 5G Access? | ✅ With select plans | ✅ Limited | ✅ Premium plans |
| Cheapest Plan | BD 3 | BD 3 | BD 2.5 |
| Most Data Offered | Unlimited (Fair Use) | 100 GB | 150 GB |
| App Available | ✅ Batelco App | ✅ Zain App | ✅ stc App |
Biometric User Registration
Bahrain requires biometric registration to activate a SIM card. You must present:
- A valid passport or CPR (national ID)
- Face scan or fingerprint (done at the shop)
SIMs are not sold anonymously, and the number will be linked to your identity. Tourists must present a passport; GCC citizens can also use national IDs.
What to Expect
Here’s what typically happens when buying a prepaid SIM in Bahrain:
- Visit a mobile store, kiosk, or airport SIM counter
- Present your ID/passport for verification
- Choose a SIM package or tourist plan
- SIM is inserted and activated in-store
- You’re connected within 5–10 minutes
Most shops are open 7 days a week, and staff speak English and Arabic.
Device Registration
There is no formal IMEI registration process in Bahrain for tourists or short-term visitors. However, devices reported as lost or stolen internationally may not work.
If you’re planning a long-term stay, it’s wise to buy your device locally or ensure yours is globally unlocked and compliant with local frequency bands.
SIM Card Price
Prepaid SIM cards in Bahrain are affordable and widely available. Here’s what you can expect:
| Provider | SIM Price | Included Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Batelco | BD 3 – BD 5 | Data + calls included |
| Zain | BD 3 | Data + calls included |
| stc | BD 2.5 – BD 5 | Preloaded data |
BD = Bahraini Dinar (~2.65 USD)
Prepaid Plans
Each operator offers a variety of prepaid data and voice bundles. Here’s a sample of current prepaid plans:
| Plan Type | Data | Local Calls | Validity | Price (BD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| stc Light | 3 GB | 100 mins | 7 days | 2.5 |
| Zain Mini | 5 GB | 150 mins | 30 days | 3.5 |
| Batelco Max | 20 GB + 5G | Unlimited | 30 days | 10 |
Plans are renewable via app, website, or recharge cards.
Tourist SIM
Each provider offers tourist SIM cards tailored for short visits:
Batelco Tourist SIM
- Price: BD 5
- Includes: 3 GB data, 30 local mins, 7-day validity
- Available at airport counters and Batelco stores.
Zain Visitor SIM
- Price: BD 6
- Includes: 5 GB data, 60 local mins
- Valid for 14 days. Can be topped up or extended.
Stc Visitor SIM
- Price: BD 3
- Includes: 2 GB data + 20 mins
- Valid for 10 days. Perfect for weekend getaways.
Data Add-Ons
Need more data? Just recharge and add a data booster via:
- stc, Zain, or Batelco mobile apps
- Top-up cards sold at stores or supermarkets
Common data add-ons include:
| Add-On | Data | Price (BD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Boost | 1 GB | 1 | 7 days |
| Mega Boost | 5 GB | 3 | 30 days |
| Ultra Boost | 10 GB | 5 | 30 days |
Activation
Activating your prepaid SIM in Bahrain is quick:
- Insert SIM into your phone
- Follow on-screen instructions (or ask shop staff)
- Set APN settings (usually automatic)
- Download the operator’s app for recharges, plan tracking, and customer support
- Enjoy instant access to local networks
Conclusion
Getting a prepaid SIM in Bahrain is simple, affordable, and offers great value especially for tourists and short-term visitors. With fast 4G/5G networks, competitive prices, and easy activation, you’ll never be disconnected in the Kingdom.
Whether you’re watching videos from the Bahrain Fort, navigating with Google Maps in Manama, or sharing photos from the Tree of Life, a Bahraini prepaid SIM card keeps you connected with ease.
Pro Tip: Buy your SIM card at the airport upon arrival for immediate access—or head to official mobile shops in malls or city centers for better deals.