
How to activate SIM card with Iqama is a crucial and legally required process for residents in Saudi Arabia to ensure full access to essential government and digital services. This process allows your mobile number to be officially linked to your Iqama, which is necessary for using platforms like Absher, completing banking transactions, registering your National Address, and submitting visa or other government applications.
Following the correct activation steps not only guarantees compliance with Saudi regulations but also secures your personal information, prevents unauthorized use of your identity, and ensures uninterrupted communication through voice, SMS, and internet services.
المحتويات
How to Activate Sim Card With Iqama
Getting to activate SIM Card with Iqama is quick and hassle-free, and knowing how to activate SIM card with Iqama ensures all legal steps are followed:
- Prepare the required legal documents, including a valid Iqama for residents or national ID for citizens, passport if needed, and salary certificate or bank account details for postpaid plans.
- Choose the appropriate plan based on usage, budget, and additional services like data, voice, SMS, international roaming, or family sharing options.
- Receive the SIM card, verify device compatibility, and test basic services such as calls, SMS, and data before official activation.
- Submit documents and complete identity verification in-store or digitally via platforms like Nafath or Absher, including any required biometric checks.
- Complete all financial obligations, including activation fees, plan cost, and other payments using legally approved methods.
- Officially activate all SIM services and ensure information is recorded in the provider’s database, while understanding how to cancel SIM on your Iqama if needed in the future.
- Create a digital account on the provider’s app, activate biometric authentication, and configure preferences for billing and service management.
- Use the digital or self-service activation option to pre-register the SIM, purchase a plan, complete identity verification, and finalize activation, another key step in how to activate SIM card with Iqama.
Learn about :iqama renewal fees for 1 year
How to activate STC SIM card with Iqama

If you’re wondering how to activate a SIM card with Iqama, the process can be completed easily online through the mySTC app with official identity verification.
By following the steps below and completing Nafath authentication, your SIM card will be activated and securely linked to your Iqama within minutes:
- -Download and open the mySTC app.
- -Go to the Store section and select Mobile & Internet SIM.
- -Choose the service option that best suits your needs.
- -Select “Activate Your SIM on Your Own.”
- –Scan the SIM barcode or enter the SIM serial number.
- –Enter the PUK2 code found on the SIM package.
- -Select your preferred mobile package.
- -Enter your personal details exactly as stated in your Iqama.
- –Enter the OTP (verification code) sent to your mobile number.
- -Complete identity verification through Nafath.
- –Make the payment using a credit card or via SADAD.
After successful verification, your mobile number will be activated and automatically linked to your Iqama.
Learn about : How to Know If My Iqama Is Transferable
Why It Is Important to Check SIM Cards Registered Under Your Iqama

It is crucial to regularly verify the SIM cards linked to your Iqama. If unauthorized or unknown SIM cards are registered under your identity, you could be exposed to:
- Linking a mobile number to your Iqama is essential in Saudi Arabia to access key government and digital services, including Absher and other official e-services.
- A registered mobile number is required for secure banking operations, digital transactions, and identity verification processes.
- It is also necessary for National Address registration to receive official notifications and government correspondence.
- Many services, such as visa applications and other government procedures, require a phone number linked to your Absher account.
- Regularly checking SIM cards registered under your Iqama helps ensure that no unauthorized numbers are associated with your identity.
- Unknown or unauthorized SIM cards may lead to legal liabilities, unexpected bills, identity misuse, and complications during verification or official transactions.
For this reason, Saudi authorities provide official tools and channels that enable residents to review and confirm the SIM cards registered under their Iqama for compliance and personal data protection.
Official Ways to Check SIM Cards Linked to Your Iqama
There are five authorized methods to verify the SIM cards registered under your Iqama:
- Through the CST Mutasil website (using a mobile number-)
- -Through the CST Mutasil website (without a mobile number)
- -Via SMS services provided by telecom companies
- -Using the CST mobile application
- Through the Nafath porta-l
Conclusion:
Understanding how to activate SIM card with Iqama and regularly verifying the SIMs registered under your Iqama helps protect your identity, prevent unauthorized charges, and ensure uninterrupted access to government and digital services. For professional guidance and support throughout this process, residents can rely on the Etqan Law Firm, which provides expert assistance in compliance, registration, and related mobile service procedures.
FAQ:
Can I activate a SIM card online using Iqama?
Yes, a SIM card can be activated online using your Iqama through telecom provider apps or websites, followed by identity verification via Nafath. Some cases may still require in-store verification depending on the provider.
How long does it take to activate a SIM card?
SIM card activation usually takes a few minutes after completing identity verification, but in some cases it may take up to 24 hours depending on system processing and provider procedures.
Can a visitor activate a SIM card with Iqama?
Yes, visitors in Saudi Arabia are allowed to activate a SIM card; however, registration is usually done using a passport and entry/border number, not the Iqama, which is issued only to residents. Visitor SIMs are typically activated at airport kiosks or telecom operator stores using passport information for identity verification.
How many SIM cards can be activated under one Iqama?
According to Saudi regulations, residents can activate a limited number of SIM cards under one Iqama, typically up to 2 prepaid and 5 postpaid voice SIMs, depending on telecom policies.
The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +966543104848
Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:
- Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
- Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
- Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.
