Last updated: 10 October 2026
Expats can register a maximum of 2 prepaid SIM cards on one iqama, counting voice and data SIMs together, across all networks. Saudi citizens can register up to 10 prepaid SIMs. These limits come from a decision of the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC, now the Communications, Space and Technology Commission, CST), reported in 2017 by Saudi Gazette and Bloomberg. CITC called it a temporary measure, but CST has not published a newer figure. Operators apply the limit when you register a new SIM.
This guide explains the limits, how to check every number registered to your ID for free, and what to do if a number that is not yours shows up. To check how many SIMs are on your iqama online right now, the CST steps are just below.
SIM Card Limit per ID in Saudi Arabia
| Who | Prepaid SIMs (voice and data) | Postpaid lines |
|---|---|---|
| Expat (iqama) | 2 | No official figure (2017 reports differ: 10, or no cap) |
| Saudi citizen | 10 | No official figure (2017 reports: 40) |
| Visitor (passport or border number) | No official figure | No official figure |
- The limit is for all operators combined. There is no separate limit per operator.
- Prepaid data SIMs for routers and MiFi devices count towards the limit.
- If you have reached the limit, the operator will ask you to cancel an existing SIM, even one you no longer use, before it issues a new one.
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How to Check How Many SIMs Are on Your Iqama
CST’s free “Inquire about my numbers” service (also called My Numbers, or Arqami) shows every active mobile number and data SIM registered to your iqama, with all operators. It is instant and needs no login.
- Open the Mutasil “Inquire about my numbers” page or the CST app.
- Enter your iqama (ID) number and your date of birth.
- Answer “Do you have a mobile number?” with Yes or No.
- Type the captcha code and select Inquire.
If you sign in to the Mutasil platform, you can see your numbers without filling in the form. Business owners can run the same check with a Commercial Registration (CR) number.
The service lists only numbers that are active and authenticated. If a number is active but not yet authenticated with your fingerprint, sort it out with the operator, or it may be cancelled.
For the full steps and screenshots of the result screen, see how to check SIM cards on your iqama.
Found a Number That Is Not Yours?
CITC has made clear that the person a number is registered to is responsible for any misuse of it (CITC, 2016), so act quickly.
- Contact the operator that issued the number: STC on 900, Mobily on 1100 or Zain on 959 (Zain). For other networks, use the number in their app or on their website. Ask them to cancel the line.
- If the operator has not solved it within five working days, escalate the complaint to CST through the Mutasil portal (“Escalate telecom complaints”).
- You can also call CST on 19966.
- Run the “Inquire about my numbers” check again to confirm the number has gone.
Fingerprint Registration Is Required
Since 2016, every SIM in Saudi Arabia, whether prepaid, postpaid or data, must be verified with the holder’s fingerprint or through Absher, and unverified SIMs were suspended and then disconnected (CITC). In practice, take your iqama to an operator store or authorised outlet and give your fingerprint when you buy a SIM. Never let anyone else register a SIM in your name.
Penalties for SIM Misuse
CST has not published a SIM-specific fine table, and the fine lists that circulate online have no official source. The Telecommunications and Information Technology Act (2022) allows fines of up to SAR 25 million, service suspension and other penalties for violations that include misusing telecom services and giving misleading information (Articles 26 and 27, reported by Ajel). The safest rule is simple: do not sell, lend or hand over a SIM registered on your iqama.
Moving Your Number to Another Network
Under CST’s Number Portability Regulations (2025):
- There is no minimum period you must stay with your current operator.
- Mobile porting is handled in minutes, not days: the regulation gives operators 30 minutes to accept or reject a request and short deadlines to complete it.
- Any unused prepaid balance is lost when the number moves, and unpaid dues on the line remain payable.
Moving a number does not add a SIM, so it does not affect your limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many SIM cards can an expat have on one iqama?
Two prepaid SIM cards, counting voice and data SIMs together, across all networks. This is the limit set by the Communications and Information Technology Commission (now CST) in 2017. Saudi citizens can have up to 10 prepaid SIMs.
Do data SIMs count towards the limit?
Yes. The 2017 rule covers prepaid voice and data SIMs together, so a mobile SIM and a data SIM for a router already use both of an expat’s two prepaid places.
Are postpaid SIMs counted separately?
Reports of the 2017 decision say the two-SIM limit applies to prepaid lines, but they disagree on postpaid. CST has not published a postpaid figure, so ask the operator before you sign a postpaid contract.
How can I check how many SIMs are registered on my iqama?
Use the free CST service “Inquire about my numbers” on the Mutasil portal or the CST app. Enter your iqama number and date of birth, and it lists the active mobile numbers and data SIMs on your ID.
What should I do if a number on my iqama is not mine?
Complain to that operator’s customer care first. If the problem is not solved within five working days, escalate it to CST through the Mutasil portal or call CST on 19966.
Using Mobily? See how to check your Mobily balance and data and the full list of Mobily service codes.
Sources: CST “Inquire about my numbers” service and Mutasil portal, CITC notices on SIM verification (2016), CST Number Portability Regulations 1-195-2025, Telecommunications and IT Act (2022) as reported by Ajel, Saudi Gazette (26 May 2017) and Bloomberg via Gulf News (2017) on the CITC SIM limit, Zain user protection page.