The Gulf has an attractive travel destination called Bahrain known for its well-maintained modern infrastructure, historical sights, and shopping. Being a technologically advanced country, Bahrain provides great internet connection opportunities for travelers. Ensure that you purchase a local SIM card at Bahrain Airports so as not to incur roaming charges during your trip to Bahrain. This guide will show how to acquire a SIM card at Bahrain airport.
Table of Contents
I. Which Airport in Bahrain Offers SIM Card for Tourists
Two international airports in Bahrain offer SIM cards for tourists – Bahrain International Airport and Bahrain Airport.
1. Bahrain International Airport
The main international airport in Bahrain is Bahrain International Airport, offering extensive connectivity within the Middle East and globally.
The airport features various shops where travelers can purchase local SIM cards from providers such as Batelco, Zain, or Viva Bahrain. These SIM cards come in different data bundles to suit varying needs during the trip.
2. Bahrain Airport
The airport is a major airport serving all domestic flights in Bahrain, especially those destined for neighborhood countries.
Although smaller than an international airport, Bahrain Airports also has stores selling local SIM cards. The shops situated in the arrival and departure zones sell Batelco, Zain, and VIVA Bahrain SIM cards.
This is just a slight difference between them and the international airport when it comes to data packages. However, they provide enough data and call minutes to travel locally around Bahrain. Vouchers for top-up as well.
II. Where to Buy Bahrain SIM Cards at Airports
Here are some of the best places to buy SIM Cards at Bahrain airports:
1. Batelco Stores
Being the foremost telco operator in Bahrain, Batelco dominates two airports with their respective outlets. They have different types of Batelco SIM cards which include data only or are combined with local call minutes in their stores, It proposes plans that cater for brief visits or extended stays. The coverage of 4G LTE is outstanding at Batelco. One purchases recharge vouchers as well.
2. Zain Outlets
Another major telecom service provider in Bahrain is Zai. Tourist SIM cards are available at specialized outlets at each airport. Zain SIMs have good data bundles and calling minutes plans. They also have courteous staff to assist you in setting up your shipment package. In addition, their 4G coverage is superb, too.
3. VIVA Desks
Buy your tourist SIM card at any VIVA desk or store. The 4G mobile speed at VIVA Bahrain is the highest, and this company has cheap data packages. They provide only short-term data for travelers with SIM cards. The top-up vouchers are widely accessible.
4. Nano/E3 Stores
Locally, there are two other telecom chains, including nano and E3 airways, that also sell sim cards in Bahrain airports. Although their number is few, they are still good options for short distances. The SIM cards will ensure you get basic connectivity although the data package could be on the low side.
5. Duty Free Shops
In addition, some touristic SIM cards can be bought in the duty-free shops of the airport next to the normal commodities. It is easy to buy a SIM card as one passes by. It’s better to check options even if there aren’t many.
III. What to Prepare to Buy a SIM Card at Bahrain Airports
Here are some tips on what to prepare when purchasing your SIM card at Bahrain Airports:
1. Passport
Carry your passport when buying a SIM card. The stores require you to see your passport before selling a SIM. It is used to verify identity and tourist status. Some additional IDs may also be requested in certain cases.
2. Unlocked Phone
Your phone should be unlocked to use a Bahraini SIM. Most new phones are unlocked by default. But do check that your phone is not locked to a specific network. The staff can assist in checking and unlocking it if required.
3. Local Currency
Have Bahraini Dinar (BHD) cash or credit card ready. Most SIM card packages cost between 5 to 15 BHD. Recharges also need local currency. US Dollars or credit cards also work at most stores.
4. Activation Details
Have your identification and other basic personal details handy when you need to register the SIM card. Some of these are the passport number, full names, contact numbers, et cetera. The sales team will aid in the process of activation and registration.
5. SIM Type
It uses standard-size SIM cards. This will limit on nano or esim. Ensure that you buy the correct SIM type for your phone. Bring a new SIM card holder if your device uses another SIM size.
One can find a Bahrain SIM card in the airport with minimal requirements such as having sufficient preparation.
IV. Bahrain eSIM – an Alternative to Airport SIM Card
Instead of purchasing a physical SIM card upon arrival, I recommend tourists consider bahrainesim.com from GIGAGO for their trip to Mexico. eSIM plans from GIGAGO offer a convenient solution for maintaining connectivity. Here’s what makes bahrainesim.com stand out:
- Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data packages best suited to your goals.
- Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspects by collaborating with major Bahrain mobile providers so that you get a fast and reliable connection during your trip smoothly and uninterrupted.
- Top-notch Customer Service: They offer 24/7 customer support so you can get assistance if needed.
- Affordable Prices: Their eSIMs are competitively priced, offering excellent value for money
Plan that may interest you
V. FAQs
Do I need to show a passport/visa when buying SIM at Bahrain airports?
Yes, you need to show your passport as verification to buy a SIM card as a tourist. In some cases, the store may also ask to see your entry visa sticker.
Can I get a SIM card outside the airport on arrival?
Yes, you can easily find mobile provider stores in Manama City and other areas to buy a SIM card later. But getting it at the airport is more convenient right after you land.
What’s the validity of SIM cards at Bahrain airports?
Most tourist SIM cards are valid for a month or the duration of your visa. Some packages aimed at short stays may have a lower validity of 2 weeks.
Can I get a postpaid SIM rather than prepaid on arrival?
Prepaid SIM cards are generally provided to tourists arriving at the airport. For a postpaid SIM, you will need to provide documents like a residency permit and visit the telco store in the city later.
Are Bahrain tourist SIM cards only for data or also have a calling facility?
Most tourist SIMs come with bundled local calling minutes besides mobile data. But you can also find data-only SIM packages at Bahrain airports if you don’t need to call.
VI. Conclusion
Getting a Bahrain SIM card on arrival is easy and convenient for staying connected throughout your trip. Both Bahrain International Airport and Bahrain Airport have stores where you can buy SIMs from leading providers like Batelco, Zain, and VIVA with excellent data packages. eSIM is also a digital alternative to consider. Avoid roaming charges, stay in touch with your loved ones, access maps and travel info, and share photos of your Bahrain travels seamlessly with a local SIM card.
