Zain SIM Cards and eSIM for Tourists in 2023

Zain is one of the leading mobile operators in Bahrain with extensive network coverage across the country. As a tourist visiting Bahrain, using Zain SIM cards or eSIM offers convenient connectivity and allows you to avoid expensive roaming charges from your home network. Here is a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about getting and using Zain SIM and eSIM in Bahrain in 2023 as a traveler.

I. Quick Facts about Zain

• Founded in 1996
• Full name: Zain Bahrain S.A. de C.V.
• Provides mobile voice, messaging, data services, and mobile financial services.
• Over 50 million subscribers as of 2022
• Coverage in all major cities and tourist destinations across Bahrain
• Over 6000 Zain stores and agents across Bahrain

Zain Bahrain is part of Zain Group, one of the leading telecom groups in the Middle East and Africa. Zain started operations in Bahrain in 2015 after acquiring a local operator. It has grown to become one of the top three mobile operators in Bahrain with extensive 4G/LTE coverage.

II. Why Zain When You’re Exploring Bahrain – Coverage and Speed

1. Zain Network Coverage in Bahrain

Zain has Bahrain very well covered! With such widespread and consistent LTE availability indoors, outdoors, and everywhere in between, staying connected is an absolute breeze. Here is some key points: 

• Zain achieved excellent 4G availability of 96.9% nationwide.
• Outdoor availability was 97.4%, ensuring strong LTE coverage while exploring.
• Indoor coverage also impressed at 95.7% for streaming/surfing from home.
• Busy areas like malls maintained a solid 96.5% 4G accessibility.
• Open outdoor spaces saw near blanket-like 97.6% 4G coverage.
• Even 3G coverage was comprehensive at 99.4% nationwide.

Zain has a presence in all parts of Bahrain including major cities like Bahrain City, Cancun, Tijuana, Guadalajara. It also has coverage along major tourist destinations and roads. So you can easily stay connected throughout your trip to Bahrain with a Zain SIM.

2. Zain Speed

• Impressive average 4G download speed of 20 Mbps.
• Solid average 4G upload of 6.2 Mbps for sharing content.
• Median 4G download of 14 Mbps indicating reliable fast speeds.
• A low average latency of 38ms ensured smooth browsing, gaming, and apps.
• Busy areas saw average speeds of 16.8 Mbps, hardly slower than home.
• Indoor speeds averaged 16.6 Mbps for fast connectivity in malls, cafes, and homes.

Overall, while not quite topping the charts, Zain’s speeds are nothing to scoff at. With consistently fast averages no matter your location, their network flies just as well as the leaders.

III. Zain Connectivity Options for Travelers to Bahrain

In summary, prepaid Zain SIM cards have wider device compatibility and more plan choices while eSIM provides a quicker and more convenient activation process without needing a physical card.

IV. Best Zain SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Notes 🕹

• Plans are available for purchase as prepaid recharges online or through retailers
• Price and allowances vary based on the package selected and the validity period
• Additional usage outside of bundles is charged at standard rates
• Plans cater to different budgets and usage needs for short or extended stays

V. Does Zain Support eSIM in Bahrain?

Yes, Zain introduced eSIM support in September 2022, making it the first carrier in Saudi Arabia to offer this feature.

Using an eSIM with Zain comes with several advantages, including the convenience of remote activation without the need to swap SIM cards, the ability to use dual SIMs with both your home SIM and the Saudi SIM, and the flexibility to easily change plans or switch providers.

If you’re seeking an alternative to a local SIM Card, consider getting an eSIM from bahrainesim.com by GIGAGO. Here’s what makes bahrainesim.com stand out:

Plan that may interest you

VI. Where Can You Buy a Zain SIM Card and eSIM?

1. Where to Buy Zain SIM cards in Bahrain?

As a tourist, you can purchase Zain SIM cards from these places across Bahrain:

• Zain stores – located in major airports, cities, malls
• OXXO convenience stores
• Liverpool department stores
• Walmart stores

2. Where to Buy Zain eSIM in Bahrain?

Zain eSIM can be purchased directly on the Zain Bahrain website or mobile app. Download the profile after entering your details and making payment.

No physical store visit is required for eSIM. You can activate it before traveling to Bahrain and land with mobile data readily available.

Another way is that you can purchase eSIM plans for Bahrain from Bahrainesim.com that are compatible with major cellular networks in Bahrain.

VII. How to Activate Zain SIM/eSIM in Bahrain?

1. How to Use Zain SIM Card in Bahrain?

Follow these simple steps to activate your Zain SIM cards:

• Insert SIM in your unlocked phone.
• Turn on mobile data and wait for automatic configuration messages.
• You will receive SMS notifications when the Zain SIM is activated on your number.
• Restart the phone and start using Zain Bahrain seamlessly.

If automatic configuration fails, call *321# and follow the prompts or visit the nearest Zain store for assistance.

2. How to Activate Zain eSIM?

To use Zain Bahrain eSIM, follow these steps after purchase:

• Select the eSIM option when adding a new mobile plan on your phone.
• Enter details from the Zain eSIM voucher.
• The Zain eSIM profile will be downloaded and activated on your phone.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and restart the device to start using Zain Bahrain eSIM.

VIII. Zain Call & SMS Rates

Zain is a leading telecommunications company that operates in several countries across the Middle East and Africa. It offers various plans and packages for voice, SMS, and data services to its customers. Here is a table that summarizes some of the Zain Call & SMS Rates for different regions and scenarios:

Please note that the conversion rate may change over time. For more details, please visit the Zain website or contact their customer service. I hope this helps. 

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Zain SIM/eSIM

Use these USSD codes to check balance, packs, and manage your Zain SIM cards or eSIM:

• *123# – Check main account balance
• *321# – Check data balance & validity
• *111# – Check bonus & promotional balance
• *222# – List special offers or packs
• *888# – Customer service & assistance

X. How to Top-up Zain SIM/eSIM

You can recharge your Zain Bahrain prepaid credit, data packs through:

• Zain App/Website using Mexican debit/credit card
• Visit any Zain store with cash
• 7-Eleven, OXXO stores, pharmacies with cash
• Online using international credit cards on recharge sites

For eSIM, login to your Zain account on the website/app and make payments to instantly add data packs or credit.

XI. Alternatives to Zain

1. Other Main Local Mobile Operators

Other top networks in Bahrain include:

• Mobily – Second largest provider with good coverage
• STC – Third largest mobile network operator

Both offer prepaid SIM cards and recharge options similar to Zain. But Zain offers a good balance of coverage, speeds, and rates for tourists.

2. Getting an eSIM from Bahrainesim.com

Purchasing an eSIM plan from Bahrainesim.com provides a more convenient travel option when visiting Bahrain.

As the top eSIM provider in Bahrain run by GIGAGO, they offer cost-effective data bundles without long-term agreements or deposits required. Upon purchasing a plan, a QR code for activation will be delivered to your email immediately. Then by simply scanning this code onto your device, you can instantly connect to GIGAGO’s fast cellular network without having to swap physical SIM cards. It’s a hassle-free way to stay connected while traveling since all you need to do is download and you’re ready to go.

XII. FAQs about Zain

1. Does Zain offer 5G in Bahrain?

Zain has launched 5G networks in select areas of major cities so far. 5G coverage is still limited, 4G/LTE remains the dominant Zain network.

2. How long are Zain SIM cards valid for tourists?

Zain tourist SIM remains active for 180 days (6 months) after activation as per regulations. You can recharge and use it during your stay in Bahrain for up to 6 months.

3. Can I use Zain SIM in the USA or other countries?

Zain Bahrain SIM works in Bahrain only. It will not work if roamed to the USA or other countries.

XIII. Final Words

Getting local Zain SIM cards or eSIM in Bahrain allows you to save on roaming charges and stay conveniently connected across Bahrain. Zain provides excellent network coverage with high-speed 4G/LTE both in cities and tourist places. For short, or long vacations, Zain’s prepaid plans, easy activation, cheap rates, and good connectivity make it the top choice for tourists visiting beautiful Bahrain.

Zain Bahrain offers an easy and affordable way for travelers to stay connected across Bahrain without paying expensive roaming fees. With wide 4G coverage, high speeds, low rates, and ease of activation through SIM card or eSIM, Zain is undoubtedly the top pick for hassle-free connectivity during your Bahrain vacation in 2023 and beyond.