Top Saudi Mobile SIM Cards for Expats in 2025: Plans & Internet Speeds Compared
Moving to or visiting Saudi Arabia? Here’s a fresh, data‑driven comparison of STC, Mobily, and Zain visitor SIMs and eSIMs—covering plans, prices, and real‑world speeds for 2025.
1. Introduction
For expats moving to or visiting Saudi Arabia in 2025, staying connected is essential. From high-speed internet to affordable international calls, the right SIM card can make all the difference. In this guide, we compare the latest Saudi SIM cards—STC, Mobily, and Zain—along with eSIM options, focusing on plans, prices, and real-world internet speeds.
2. Internet Speeds in Saudi Arabia
● SpeedChecker (May 2025)
➟ STC: 93.5 Mbps download | 18.3 Mbps upload
➟ Mobily: 65.0 Mbps download | 15.7 Mbps upload
➟ Zain: 61.5 Mbps download | 12.2 Mbps upload
● Opensignal (Feb 2025)
➟ STC: 55.2 Mbps download | 13.0 Mbps upload | 252.4 Mbps 5G download
➟ Mobily: 53.6 Mbps download | 12.2 Mbps upload | 27.6 Mbps 5G upload (best)
➟ Zain: 41.3 Mbps download | 8.7 Mbps upload
Verdict: STC leads in speed and coverage, Mobily shines in video and gaming, while Zain remains a strong value option.
"5G averages are similar across the big three—around 168–169 Mbps download in 2025 field tests. Coverage is strongest in major cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam)."
3. Visitor SIM Plans
● STC (Sawa Visitor)
➟ Sawa Visitor 100: 53 GB + 5 hours calls • 28 days • SAR 115
➟ Sawa Visitor Gamers 120: 60 GB + 3 hours calls + SAR 20 credit • 28 days • SAR 138
➟ Visitor 130: 70 GB + 6 hours calls • 28 days • SAR 150
➟ Visitor 165: 100 GB + calls • 28 days • SAR 190
● Mobily (Tourist SIMs)
➟ Visitor 30: 5 GB + 60 minutes • 14 days • SAR 34.5
➟ Visitor 50: 15 GB + 120 minutes • 14 days • SAR 57.5
➟ Visitor 150: 40 GB + unlimited social + 600 minutes • 30 days • SAR 172.5
● Zain (Visitor Packages)
➟ Visitor 40: 6 GB • 2 weeks • SAR 40
➟ Visitor 60: 15 GB • 2 weeks • SAR 60
➟ Visitor 85: 25 GB • 3 weeks • SAR 85
➟ Visitor 120: 40 GB + 350 min + unlimited visitor‑to‑visitor calls • 4 weeks • SAR 120
➟ Visitor 160: 60 GB • 4 weeks • SAR 160
4. SIM Plan Comparison
Provider – Plan Name – Data – Calls/Extras – Validity – Price (SAR)
➟ STC – Sawa Visitor 100 – 53 GB – 5 hours – 28 days – 115
➟ STC – Gamers 120 – 60 GB – 3 hours + SAR 20 credit – 28 days – 138
➟ STC – Visitor 130–165 – 70–100 GB – 6 hours calls – 28 days – 150–190
➟ Mobily – Visitor 30 – 5 GB – 60 minutes – 14 days – 34.5
➟ Mobily – Visitor 50 – 15 GB – 120 minutes – 14 days – 57.5
➟ Mobily – Visitor 150 – 40 GB – Unlimited social + 600 min – 30 days – 172.5
➟ Zain – Visitor 40–160 – 6–60 GB – 350 min (120+ plans) – 2–4 weeks – 40–160
Note: Prices and allowances always confirm in the operator app or store at purchase time.
5. Choosing the Best SIM
➟ Best coverage & raw speed: STC
➟ Best for video & gaming: Mobily
➟ Best value: Zain
➟ Prefer eSIM: Consider Airalo, Holafly, or Yesim for instant activation on supported devices.
6. Quick Tips for Expats
➟ Bring your passport to buy/activate a SIM in-store (airport kiosks, malls, official shops).
➟ Activation is instant at the counter; eSIMs are activated via QR code.
➟ Use the official apps (STC, Mobily, Zain) to recharge, track usage, and switch bundles.
➟ Coverage: 5G is widespread in cities; 4G remains strong in most regions.
7. Conclusion
In 2025, Saudi Arabia continues to offer world-class mobile internet. STC dominates in speed and coverage, Mobily is ideal for video-heavy users, and Zain is the go-to budget-friendly option. For ultimate convenience, eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Yesim) let you connect even before landing.
7. FAQs
Which SIM is fastest in Saudi Arabia?
STC consistently records the fastest average download speeds and strongest coverage, based on independent testing in 2025.
What’s the most affordable 30‑day plan?
Zain’s Visitor 120 (40 GB + 350 minutes) at SAR 120 is a strong value pick. Mobily’s Visitor 150 offers more minutes and social for a higher price.
Where can I buy a SIM upon arrival?
Airport kiosks of STC, Mobily, and Zain, as well as official stores and partner retailers in malls.
Do these plans support hotspot/tethering?
Yes for most plans; check the specific bundle terms at purchase time if hotspot use is critical.
Note: This guide is intended for informational purposes only.
