Cell Phone Usage In Bahrain: What You Need To Know

If you're travelling to Bahrain, you'll want to stay connected. The good news is that your phone will probably work in Bahrain without a problem, as long as it supports 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. However, there are a few things to consider. First, you may need to get your phone unlocked to use a Bahraini SIM card. Second, check if your phone's network bands are compatible with the frequencies used in Bahrain. Finally, roaming charges from your home mobile operator can be expensive, so consider getting a local SIM card for more affordable data plans and local rates.

Phone compatibility

When travelling to another country, it is important to check whether your mobile phone will be compatible with the local networks. In Bahrain, there are several factors that determine whether your phone will work.

Firstly, Bahrain operates on a GSM network, which is compatible with most phones from Europe and many other countries. However, if your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you may need to get it unlocked to use a Bahraini SIM card. You can check this by contacting your service provider or a third-party service, which can unlock your phone for a small fee.

Secondly, your phone needs to support the correct frequencies used in Bahrain. The common frequency bands are:

• 2G: GSM 900 and GSM 1800
• 4G: LTE bands 3 (1800 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz), and 20 (800 MHz)

You can check if your phone is compatible with these frequencies by searching for your device model and the specific frequencies online. Additionally, your phone should support 2G, 3G, and 4G networks to function optimally in Bahrain.

Lastly, to avoid high roaming charges, it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. This will allow you to take advantage of affordable data plans and local rates for calls and texts.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your phone will be compatible and function effectively during your stay in Bahrain.

Network frequencies

The common frequency bands used for mobile networks in Bahrain are:

2G: GSM 900 and GSM 1800

4G: LTE bands 3 (1800 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz), and 20 (800 MHz)

If your phone supports these frequencies, it will be compatible with the mobile network in Bahrain.

To check if your phone is compatible with the network frequencies in Bahrain, you can use a website like WillMyPhoneWork.net. Simply select your mobile device and the carrier network you want to use it on, and the website will show you if your device is compatible.

It's important to note that even if your phone is compatible, you may still need to get it unlocked to use a Bahraini SIM card. This is because Bahrain operates on a GSM network, which may require unlocking for your current phone to work with a local SIM.

Additionally, some carriers have an "approved list" of devices that are blocked even if they are compatible with the network frequencies. So, it's always a good idea to check with your carrier before travelling to ensure your phone will work in Bahrain.

Roaming charges

To avoid high roaming fees, it is recommended to purchase a roaming package before your trip. These packages can offer unlimited talk time and data or limited usage at a lower cost than regular roaming rates. It is important to compare the plans offered by different carriers to find the best option for your needs.

If you want to avoid roaming charges altogether, there are a few alternative options. One option is to use Wi-Fi calling and messaging apps, which allow you to make calls and send messages over the internet. Another option is to purchase a Bahrain eSIM, which allows you to connect to a local network and choose a plan specific to the country or region you are visiting. Disabling data roaming on your smartphone will also prevent your device from connecting to foreign networks and incurring roaming charges.

When choosing a mobile plan in Bahrain, it is important to consider your usage preferences and budget. Some providers offer special tariffs for university students, while others offer more generous postpaid and prepaid plans with more minutes and megabytes. It is recommended to research the different providers and plans available before your trip to find the best option for your needs.

To use your cell phone in Bahrain, make sure it is compatible with the country's GSM network. You may need to unlock your phone to use a Bahraini SIM card. Additionally, be sure to register your phone and personal details with a service provider to comply with the country's number registration law.

Local SIM cards

If you're travelling to Bahrain, you may want to consider getting a local SIM card. Using a local SIM card is the most cost-effective option, as it offers affordable data plans and allows you to make calls and texts at local rates.

There are three main mobile providers in Bahrain: Batelco, Zain, and Viva. All three offer postpaid contracts as well as prepaid pay-as-you-go SIM cards.

Batelco

Batelco is the leading digital solutions provider in Bahrain and offers a variety of packages, including special tariffs for university students.

Zain

Zain is a good option if you want to get the most out of your mobile service. They are a little more generous with minutes and megabytes when it comes to postpaid and prepaid plans.

Viva

Viva is another good choice, with their prepaid plans offering extra talk time and flat rates, while their postpaid LTE plans offer more data and free local minutes to all operators.

OneSimCard

OneSimCard is an international SIM card solution that provides low-cost prepaid Bahrain cell phone service as well as international cell phone roaming in 200+ other countries. You simply pay for the calls, texts, and data you use and keep the same international cell phone number no matter which country you are in.

You can also buy a local Bahrain SIM card at the airport, in various local convenience stores, and mobile service provider stores.

Requirements for a Bahraini Mobile

To get a Bahraini mobile number, you must be a registered resident in Bahrain with a personal identity number (CPR) and a fixed address. This is due to a recent update in Bahrain's number registration law, which was implemented to protect public security from unknown users engaging in illegal activities.

Phone Compatibility

Phones that support 2G, 3G, and 4G networks should work in Bahrain. The common frequency bands used for mobile networks in Bahrain are:

2G: GSM 900 and GSM 1800

4G: LTE bands 3 (1800 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz), and 20 (800 MHz)

Additionally, your phone must be unlocked to use a SIM card from a different carrier. You can check if your phone can be unlocked by contacting your service provider.

Tips for Using Your Cell Phone in Bahrain

• Call your service provider: Some carriers offer international calling and data plans, while others can suspend your service during your trip to prevent accidental charges.
• Bring a converter: Don't forget to bring the necessary converters to charge your device.
• Turn off data roaming: If your phone has a data roaming setting, make sure to turn it off before your flight.
• Disable automatic features: Automatic email checks and other features can use data without you realizing it, leading to unexpectedly high phone bills.
• Consider airplane mode: This will prevent your phone from connecting to local networks, saving you from data charges altogether.

Phone unlocking

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, you may be wondering whether your phone will work there. The good news is that, since Bahrain operates on a GSM network, your phone will likely work in the country without any issues. However, depending on your phone and your carrier, you may need to get your phone unlocked to use a Bahraini SIM card.

To unlock your phone, you will need to meet certain requirements set by your carrier. These requirements vary by company, so it's important to check with your carrier before your trip. For example, Verizon doesn't lock most of its phones, while AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint have specific instructions on their websites for unlocking phones. Common requirements include fulfilling your contract commitment and ensuring that your device has not been reported as lost or stolen.

If your phone is locked, you can contact your carrier to request an unlock code. You may also be able to find third-party services that will unlock your phone for a small fee. Once your phone is unlocked, you can swap in a compatible SIM card from international wireless carriers.

In addition to unlocking your phone, there are other options to consider for staying connected while travelling. You can look into short-term international plans offered by your carrier or purchase a local prepaid SIM card at your destination. Prepaid SIM cards are often a cost-effective way to stay connected, as they allow you to control your spending by purchasing credits for calls, texts, and data.

Frequently asked questions