Information aSTC mobile operator: SIM Cards, Coverage and Speed

Getting cell service when traveling to Kuwait can be difficult, but STC SIM cards make it easy. STC is the major carrier in the country. Their prepaid SIMs are popular with tourists due to affordability and coverage. This guide shows how to get a physical STC SIM card before your trip. It also explains eSIM, the digital version that doesn’t require a physical card. Both options provide calling, texting, and data throughout Kuwait.

I. Quick Facts about STC

• STC Kuwait (previously known as VIVA Kuwait) is the second-largest telecommunications company in Kuwait after Zain Kuwait.
• It is a subsidiary of Saudi Telecom Company (STC), the largest telecommunications company in Saudi Arabia.
• STC Kuwait launched commercial operations in Kuwait in 2008.
• As of 2022, STC Kuwait has over 2.5 million subscribers.
• It offers mobile voice and data services, broadband internet, enterprise solutions, and pay TV services in Kuwait.

II. Kuwait STC Coverage and Speed in Kuwait

As one of the leading telecommunications companies in Kuwait, STC provides mobile network coverage and internet speeds across the country.

1. STC coverage in Kuwait

Here is an analysis of STC’s coverage based on the Opensignal report for Kuwait:

• Availability – Stc places third for Availability with a score of 97.5%. This means Opensignal users on the STC network spent 97.5% of their time connected to at least a 3G or better signal.
• 5G Availability – For 5G Availability, stc again places third with a score of 42.7%. This represents the percentage of time users were able to access STC’s 5G network. While lagging behind the leaders, over 40% of 5G availability indicates stc has rolled out 5G to a significant portion of the country.
• Consistency – Stc is the outright winner of Consistent Quality with a score of 63.5%. This new metric measures how often download/upload speeds, latency, etc. are sufficient to support applications.

In summary, while not leading in every metric, stc’s coverage as measured by Opensignal is excellent. Its users experienced network availability over 97% of the time and over 40% 5G availability. Stc also excelled at Consistent Quality, highlighting it provides a reliable mobile experience across Kuwait. Coverage is a strength for stc and this report indicates it is meeting users’ needs for near-ubiquitous connectivity.

2. STC speed

Here is an analysis of stc’s speeds based on the Opensignal Kuwait Mobile Network Experience Report for August 2023:

• Download Speed Experience: stc comes third for Download Speed Experience with a score of 36.9 Mbps. This is an increase of 2.2 Mbps compared to the previous report. However, it remains behind the joint winners Ooredoo and Zain.
• 5G Download Speed: For 5G download speeds specifically, stc places third with an average speed of 198.7 Mbps. This is an increase of 26.2 Mbps (15.2%) from the previous report. However, it trails the winner Zain significantly.
• Upload Speed Experience: stc places third here as well with an average speed of 11.2 Mbps. Its score has not seen a statistically significant change since the previous report.
• 5G Upload Speed: On 5G, stc’s average upload speed is 19.8 Mbps, placing it third behind Ooredoo and Zain. Again, no statistically significant change from the previous period.
• Download Speed Experience – 5G Users: The report does not provide stc’s score for this metric, which takes into account all network technologies including 5G availability.

In summary, while stc saw improvements to its average 5G download and upload speeds compared to the previous report, it consistently places third behind Ooredoo and Zain for overall download, upload and 5G speed metrics. The operator has yet to break into the top 2 for speeds in Kuwait according to Opensignal’s measurements.

III. STC connectivity options for travelers to Kuwait

Here are two main connectivity options for travelers to connect with STC in Kuwait:

Choosing between a prepaid SIM card and eSIM:

• Prepaid SIM card: A good choice if you don’t have an eSIM-compatible phone or prefer a physical card. Easier to find and purchase upon arrival in Kuwait.
• eSIM: Convenient option if you have an eSIM-compatible phone and want to avoid carrying a physical SIM card. Easier to manage and switch between plans online.

IV. Best STC SIM cards for tourists & cost

STC offers various SIM card options for tourists, depending on your needs and budget. Here are some of the best STC SIM cards for tourists:

All packages offer fast 4G speeds. Additional perks include unlimited WhatsApp use and cloud storage. The Premier and Unlimited packages provide the best value for extensive mobile use during travel in Kuwait.

V. Does STC support eSIM?

Yes, STC supports eSIM, currently offered for residents. STC eSIM allows seamless activation and switching of mobile plans digitally, without needing a physical nano-SIM card.

• You can request an eSIM and activate it on a new STC number or convert your traditional SIM to an eSIM through the mystc app.
• They provide instructions on how to activate the eSIM for both iOS and Android devices.

VI. Where can you buy a STC SIM card and eSIM?

To make calls, send texts and access mobile internet via STC’s extensive 4G network, you’ll first need a valid SIM. Let’s explore where you can purchase STC SIM cards or sign up for their eSIM service.

1. Where to Buy Kuwait STC SIM

There are a few convenient options available for purchasing STC prepaid SIM cards in Kuwait:

• Upon Arrival – STC SIMs can be purchased directly upon arrival at Kuwait International Airport . Stands selling SIM cards and debit cards are located post-immigration before baggage claim. This is highly convenient for hassle-free mobile access from the first moments in Kuwait.
• STC Stores – STC has numerous official retail stores located across Kuwait where physical SIM purchases can be made. Find a store here.
• Other Authorized Retailers – Major supermarkets, convenience stores, and electronics shops like Virgin Megastore act as authorized retailers for STC SIM sales. While inexpensive, always check for authentic STC branding to avoid imitation products. Retail stores provide the added advantage of assistance from staff members speaking various languages.

Regardless of the purchase point, always carry your valid passport for SIM activation. Inspect the SIM packet integrity before leaving to ensure the chip is secured inside. STC SIMs can then be activated online or via the STC App with straightforward setup processes.

2. Where to Buy Kuwait STC eSIM

STC eSIM profiles can be conveniently purchased online from authorized distributors without needing to visit Kuwait.

• Direct from STC Kuwait – STC offers eSIM profiles that can be activated directly through their website or app. You’ll need a valid Kuwait phone number to verify your identity.
• eSIM service providers – Some international eSIM service providers such as kuwaitesim.com offer eSIM profiles you can purchase online and activate while traveling in Kuwait.

VII. How to activate STC SIM Card/eSIM

Getting your new STC SIM card or eSIM up and running is an easy process. This guide will outline the simple steps to activation.

1. How to use STC Kuwait SIM card

Follow these simple steps to get started:

1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device.
2. Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card.
3. Activate the SIM card: In most cases, the STC Kuwait SIM card will be pre-activated.
4. Set up APN settings if you can’t use the eSIM.
5. Check your services.

2. How to activate STC eSIM

Getting started with an STC eSIM for Kuwait is quite easy as follows:

1. Install the eSIM.
2. Activate the eSIM.
3. Set up the eSIM.
4. Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.

VIII. Kuwait STC Call & SMS rates

Here is a table of STC Call & SMS Rates in Kuwaiti Dinar (KD) converted to US Dollars:

IX. Useful USSD codes for STC SIM Card/eSIM

USSD codes are quick and convenient ways to access various services and information on your STC SIM card or eSIM. Here are some useful USSD codes for STC in Kuwait:

These USSD codes make managing STC connections quick and convenient directly from the phone without needing the app or website.

X. How to Top-up STC SIM Card/eSIM

There are several ways to top up your STC SIM card or eSIM, including:

• Online through STC’s website or mobile app. Go to the account or top up section and select the amount you want. Payment can be made using a credit/debit card.
• Using a recharge voucher purchased from any retail store or authorized dealer
• Through an ATM or online banking if you have a local bank account in Kuwait. Look for the STC logo and select “top-up mobile” or a similar option. Enter your phone number and select an amount. Pay by cash.

So in summary, log in to your STC account online or app and follow the simple steps to add credit to your prepaid STC SIM or eSIM account anytime.

XI. FAQs about STC in Kuwait

XII. Final words

In conclusion, STC is a reliable and popular choice for tourists looking to stay connected in Kuwait. With its extensive coverage, high-speed internet, and various connectivity options, you can easily stay connected with your loved ones and access important information while traveling. Whether you choose a physical SIM card or eSIM, make sure to activate it and top up your balance before your trip to avoid any inconvenience. Happy travels!