The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia continues to enforce strict regulations on mobile SIM card ownership for both citizens and expatriates, and these rules are a key part of understanding the SIM Card Limit in Saudi Arabia 2026. Knowing how many SIM cards are allowed under your name is essential for anyone living in the Kingdom, as exceeding the permitted limit can lead to penalties, SIM suspension, or service cancellation. These regulations are designed to ensure compliance with Saudi telecommunications laws while enhancing security and preventing misuse of mobile connections.
Overview: SIM Card Regulations in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s telecommunications sector operates under comprehensive regulations designed to prevent fraud, control illegal activities, and maintain national security. The CST (formerly CITC) has established clear guidelines limiting the number of SIM cards individuals can own based on their residency status.
These regulations directly impact over 32 million residents in Saudi Arabia, including approximately 13.4 million expatriates from various nationalities working across the Kingdom.
Current SIM Card Limits for 2026
SIM Limits by Category
| Category | Maximum SIM Cards Allowed | Notes |
| Saudi Citizens | 10 SIMs | Across all telecom operators |
| Expatriates (Iqama Holders) | 2 SIMs | Valid Iqama required |
| Visitors (Visit Visa) | 1 SIM | Valid for visa duration only |
| Domestic Workers | 2 SIMs | Sponsored by employer |
| Business Entities | Variable | Based on CR registration |
Key Points to Remember
- Citizens can register up to 10 SIM cards total across all service providers
- Expatriates are restricted to 2 SIM cards maximum
- Visitors on tourist or business visas can only obtain 1 SIM card
- All SIMs must be registered under the individual’s own identity documents
Major Telecom Operators in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom hosts several licensed telecommunications providers offering mobile services:
| Operator | Network Type | Market Share (2025) |
| STC (Saudi Telecom Company) | 4G/5G | 45% |
| Mobily (Etihad Etisalat) | 4G/5G | 28% |
| Zain Saudi Arabia | 4G/5G | 22% |
| Virgin Mobile Saudi | MVNO | 3% |
| Lebara Saudi | MVNO | 2% |
Each operator must verify customer identity through Absher integration before issuing new SIM cards.
Registration Requirements for SIM Cards
For Saudi Citizens
- Valid Saudi National ID (Huwiyya)
- Fingerprint verification at authorized outlets
- Absher authentication
- Facial recognition (at select locations)
For Expatriates
- Valid Iqama (Residency Permit)
- Passport copy
- Biometric verification
- Absher account verification
- Sponsor approval (in some cases)
For Visitors
- Valid passport
- Entry visa
- Visit visa number
- Contact details of Saudi sponsor/hotel
How to Check Your Registered SIM Cards
Understanding how many SIM cards are registered under your name is crucial for compliance. Here are the methods available:
Method 1: Through Absher Portal
- Log in to Absher
- Navigate to “My Services”
- Select “Query SIM Cards”
- View all registered SIMs under your identity
Method 2: Through CST Portal
- Visit the CST official website
- Access “My Number” service
- Enter your ID/Iqama number
- Receive SMS verification
- View registered SIM details
Method 3: USSD Codes
| Operator | USSD Code | Purpose |
| STC | *150# | Check registered SIMs |
| Mobily | *1100# | Account information |
| Zain | *141# | SIM registration status |
Penalties for Violating SIM Card Regulations
The CST enforces strict penalties for violations of SIM registration rules:
Violation Categories and Fines
| Violation Type | Fine Amount (SAR) | Additional Penalties |
| Exceeding SIM limit | 10,000 – 50,000 | SIM deactivation |
| Using fake documents | 50,000 – 100,000 | Deportation (expats) |
| SIM card trafficking | 100,000 – 500,000 | Imprisonment up to 1 year |
| Registering SIMs for others | 50,000 – 100,000 | Criminal prosecution |
| Operating unregistered SIM | 10,000 – 20,000 | Service termination |
Recent Enforcement Statistics (2024-2025)
- Over 2.3 million unregistered SIM cards were deactivated
- 15,000+ violations processed through the legal system
- SAR 180 million collected in fines
- 500+ establishments penalized for non-compliance
Special Cases and Exceptions
Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Commercial establishments with valid Commercial Registration (CR) may apply for additional SIM cards:
- Small businesses: Up to 5 additional SIMs
- Medium enterprises: Up to 15 additional SIMs
- Large corporations: Custom allocation based on needs
Dual Nationality Holders
Individuals holding Saudi citizenship along with another nationality must use their Saudi ID for SIM registration and follow citizen guidelines (10 SIM limit).
Dependent Family Members
Each family member (spouse, children) with valid residency documents can register SIMs under their own name, subject to the 2-SIM limit for expatriates.
Transferring SIM Cards Between Operators
Number Portability (MNP) Rules
Saudi Arabia permits Mobile Number Portability under these conditions:
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum usage period | 90 days with current operator |
| Outstanding balance | Must be cleared before transfer |
| Contract status | No active binding contract |
| Processing time | 24-72 hours |
| Transfer fee | SAR 0 (Free) |
Impact on Expatriate Community
Challenges Faced by Expats
- Limited connectivity options with only 2 SIMs allowed
- Work-personal separation becomes difficult
- Family communication requires careful planning
- Iqama renewal delays can affect SIM validity
Practical Solutions
- Dual-SIM smartphones: Maximize your 2-SIM allowance
- VoIP applications: Use WhatsApp, Zoom for additional communication
- Family plans: Consider shared data packages
- E-SIM technology: Some operators now offer E-SIM options within the same limit
Recent Policy Updates for 2026
New Developments
- E-SIM Integration: All major operators now support E-SIM, counting toward total SIM limit
- Biometric Enhancement: Facial recognition mandatory for new registrations
- Real-time Monitoring: CST’s automated system tracks registrations instantly
- Visitor SIM Validity: Extended to match visa duration (previously 90 days maximum)
- Corporate SIM Tracking: New portal for business SIM management
Upcoming Changes (Expected 2026)
- Integration with Digital ID system
- Enhanced cross-operator verification
- Stricter penalties for repeat offenders
- Possible review of expatriate SIM limits
Conclusion
Understanding and complying with Saudi Arabia’s SIM card regulations is mandatory for all residents. With 2 SIM cards for expatriates and 10 for citizens, the CST maintains strict oversight of telecommunications services. Regular monitoring of your registered SIMs through Absher or CST portals helps ensure compliance and avoid substantial penalties.
As regulations evolve, staying informed about policy changes remains essential. For the latest updates, regularly check the official CST website or consult your telecommunications provider.
FAQs
Can I register a SIM card for my family member?
No. Each individual must register SIM cards under their own identity documents. Registering for others violates CST regulations.
What happens if my Iqama expires?
SIM cards registered under an expired Iqama may be suspended. Renew your Iqama promptly and update your information with your telecom provider.
Can visitors extend their SIM validity?
Visitor SIMs are tied to visa validity. Extending your visa automatically extends SIM validity, subject to operator policies.
How do I cancel a registered SIM card?
Visit any authorized outlet of your service provider with your ID/Iqama to cancel. This frees up your quota for new registrations.
Are prepaid and postpaid SIMs counted separately?
No. Both prepaid and postpaid SIMs count toward your total limit.
