Best eSIM for Bahrain in 2025: Compare providers and plans

Bahrain is one of the world's most connected countries with 1.48 million internet users and 99% internet penetration. The kingdom also welcomes massive numbers of visitors, recording around 12.5 million in 2023, with projections showing growth to 14 million by 2028.

With so many people depending on fast and reliable connectivity, choosing the right eSIM is essential. That’s why we’ve tested six leading eSIM providers for Bahrain, comparing their data plans, coverage, pricing, and real-world performance.

Among them, Holafly stands out with unlimited data and simple setup, Maya Mobile earns praise for its responsive support and flexible prepaid plans, and Airalo appeals to budget travelers with low-cost starter packs.

Comparison of best eSIMs for Bahrain

To help you quickly see how Bahrain’s top eSIM providers stack up, here’s a side-by-side comparison of their ratings, pricing, data options, and standout features.

1. Holafly: Best for Unlimited Data and 24/7 Support

• Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 63,000+ Trustpilot reviews)
• Pricing: from $9.90 for 1 day (unlimited data)
• Coverage: works in 200+ destinations worldwide
• Calls/sms: data-only, but VoIP apps like WhatsApp/Skype work perfectly

Holafly is the easiest way to stay connected in Bahrain, offering unlimited data at 4G/5G speeds without worrying about roaming charges or surprise fees. 

Setup is simple: after purchase, you’ll receive a QR code by email, scan it, and your eSIM is ready to go. Once you land in Manama or elsewhere in Bahrain, the plan activates instantly and connects you to stc Bahrain’s fast local network.

Travelers particularly value Holafly’s no-hassle refund policy and its 24/7 live chat support. Another perk is hotspot sharing: you can tether up to 500 MB/day to keep friends or a laptop online. 

While Holafly is slightly pricier than budget competitors, the combination of unlimited data, easy activation, and premium support makes it the most stress-free option for Bahrain.

*Longer plans up to 90 days are available; prices scale accordingly.

Pros

• Unlimited data at 4G/5G speeds
• Fast setup via QR code or app
• Strong coverage with stc Bahrain
• 24/7 live chat support
• Refund policy covers device issues, plan changes, or connection failures
• Hotspot/tethering up to 500 MB/day
  

Cons

• No local Bahrain phone number for calls or SMS
  

2. Airalo: Best for Low Cost Capped Plans

• Rating: 3.9/5 (based on 9,500+ Trustpilot reviews)
• Pricing: from $4.50 for 1 GB valid for 7 days
• Coverage: works in 200+ destinations worldwide
• Calls/SMS: data-only (supports VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Skype, etc.)

Airalo is one of the biggest names in the eSIM market, popular with budget-minded travelers who want affordable, prepaid data in Bahrain without hunting down a local SIM card. 

Its Saar Mobile plans cover everything from a quick 1 GB/7-day option to 20 GB/30-day bundles, plus an “unlimited” 10-day plan. Travelers appreciate the variety of data packages and the fact that the app lets you top up instantly while abroad.

However, Airalo comes with notable drawbacks. Many users find the setup process confusing, especially on iPhones, with instructions that don’t always match the screens. 

Support is often limited to automated chatbots, and refunds are hard to obtain if your eSIM fails to activate or if your device isn’t fully compatible. 

Some users also point out inconsistent coverage, working well in city centers but dropping on the road, which can be frustrating if you rely on Google Maps. Since all plans are capped, heavy users risk running out of data mid-trip and needing extra top-ups.

Pros

• Wide range of budget-friendly data plans
• Works in 200+ destinations worldwide
• Easy top-ups via the Airalo app
• Option for small, short-term packages (as low as $4.50)

Cons

• Setup can be confusing, especially for first-time users
• Support often limited to automated bots; human help slower than Holafly’s 24/7 chat
• Refunds difficult to obtain if the eSIM doesn’t work
• Coverage may be inconsistent outside urban areas
• Only one short 10-day “unlimited” option; most plans are capped
  

3. Maya Mobile: Best for Flexible Prepaid with Strong Support

• Rating: 4.6/5 (based on 10,500+ Trustpilot reviews)
• Pricing: from $4.99 for 1 GB valid for 7 days
• Coverage: unlimited high-speed 4G & 5G mobile data in 200+ countries worldwide
• Calls/SMS: data-only (works with VoIP apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime)

Maya Mobile is a popular mid-range eSIM provider for Bahrain, offering straightforward prepaid data plans that can be activated instantly with a QR code. 

Coverage runs on Zain’s fast 5G network, and travelers appreciate being able to pre-select their activation date. Pricing is competitive, with options from 1 GB for short stays to 20 GB for heavier use.

Maya also offers a 180-day money-back guarantee, so if your trip changes or your phone isn’t compatible, refunds are simple. Customer support is widely praised for being fast and human (not just bots), which makes a big difference if you’re setting up on the road.

The service is also locked to the first device you install it on, so you can’t transfer your eSIM if you switch phones. 

Pros

• Affordable, flexible prepaid options
• Runs on Zain’s reliable 5G/4G network
• 180-day money-back guarantee
• 24/7 customer support with real human help

Cons

• No true unlimited plans (all capped, unlike Holafly)
• eSIM is locked to the first device installed, no transfers allowed
• No local Bahrain phone number for calls or SMS
  

4. aloSIM: Best for Budget Starters

• Rating: 4.2/5 (based on 350+ Trustpilot reviews)
• Pricing: from $4.50 for 1 GB valid for 7 days
• Coverage: 200+ international destinations
• Calls/SMS: data-only, but includes a free international number (via sister app Hushed)

aloSIM positions itself as a budget-friendly eSIM option for Bahrain, with entry plans starting at just $4.50 for 1 GB. It runs on Zain’s 4G/5G network, and one unique perk is that it includes a free international phone number via Hushed.

Pricing is competitive, and travelers often note aloSIM’s responsive customer service, with refunds or credits offered quickly when things go wrong. The app itself is straightforward, and setup usually takes just a couple of minutes.

That said, aloSIM comes with some real concerns. Coverage is inconsistent, multiple users complain about showing 4G+ but being unable to load even basic apps. 

Setup on Android in particular can be tricky, and topping up sometimes requires going through the website instead of the app. While the free phone number is a nice touch, it’s limited and won’t replace a true local Bahrain line.

Pros

• Very affordable entry-level plans
• Runs on Zain Bahrain’s 4G/5G network
• Free international number included via Hushed
• Responsive customer support with easy refunds/credits

Cons

• Coverage can be patchy, even when showing 4G+
• Unlimited option limited to 10 days and not always reliable
• Some reports of data burning unusually fast
• Setup on Android and top-ups via app can be confusing
  

5. GigSky: Best for Global Coverage and Cruise Options

• Rating: 3.3/5 (based on 420+ Trustpilot reviews)
• Pricing: from $5.99 for 1 GB valid for 7 days
• Coverage: 190+ countries worldwide (plus 200+ cruise ships)
• Calls/SMS: data-only (no local Bahrain number)

GigSky appeals to frequent travelers by offering not just Bahrain coverage, but access in 190+ countries and regions, plus unique packages for 200+ cruise ships. 

That global reach is its biggest selling point, making it attractive if your Bahrain trip is just one stop on a longer journey. Setup is straightforward through the GigSky app or QR code, and there’s even a free 100 MB trial plan to test the service.

In Bahrain, GigSky provides fixed-data plans ranging from 1 GB to 10 GB, with tethering included so you can share your connection with a laptop or another device.

However, many travelers point out the downsides: service quality can be inconsistent, particularly outside major cities or when relying on GigSky at sea.

Customer support is slower than rivals, often taking days to respond, and refunds can be hit-or-miss. And while global coverage is a plus, in Bahrain alone there are simpler, cheaper providers with more dependable service.

Pros

• Coverage in 190+ countries and 200+ cruise ships
• Free 100 MB trial plan available
• Easy setup via app or QR code
• Hotspot/tethering included

Cons

• Service reliability inconsistent, especially at sea or outside major cities
• Customer support can be slow to respond
• Refunds not always honored
• Data-only, with no local Bahrain number
  

6. Nomad: Best for Simple App and Easy Top Ups

• Rating: 4.5/5 (based on ~22,000 Trustpilot reviews) 
• Pricing: starts from $12 for 1 GB/7 days
• Coverage: covers 190+ countries
• Calls/SMS: data-only (works via apps for voice/SMS where needed)

Nomad is seen as a dependable mid-to-high‐quality eSIM provider. In Bahrain, its eSIM plans are generally well priced for moderate use, and users like that plans include taxes upfront.

The app is clean and intuitive; many reviews praise how easy activation is, and the ability to top up data or extend the plan as needed is a plus. 

That said, there are some drawbacks that show up repeatedly in user feedback. Some users report that service sometimes drops in less urban or remote spots, even though major cities like Manama get good speeds. 

Others say the plan caps limit heavy data users. A few reviews mention activation delays or minor compatibility issues with certain phones. Finally, while support is decent, it's not always instant, especially for complex issues.

Pros

• Clean app and simple activation process
• Decent local network coverage (4G/5G) in Bahrain cities
• Ability to top up or extend the plan easily
  

Cons

• No unlimited Bahrain plans
• Coverage can drop in remote or less urban areas
• Occasional activation or compatibility hiccups with specific devices
• Support is good but sometimes slow or less helpful for complex problems

Why do I need an eSIM in Bahrain

• Across archipelago & artificial islands: Bahrain is made of more than 84 natural and artificial islands. An eSIM helps you stay connected even if you move between islands or reclaimed land without having to change SIMs.
  
• Causeways & commuting: Many parts (Muharraq, Sitra, etc.) are connected by causeways to the main island. Good mobile data on your eSIM ensures smooth calls or GPS navigation while traveling across these bridges/prone zones.
  
• Resort & water-front spots: Lots of resorts are offshore or on small islands and artificial developments (Reef Island, Al Dar Islands). WiFi there might be spotty; having data in your pocket means you're not cut off.
  
• Heat, storms, and outdoor activity: Bahrain gets intense heat and occasional dust storms (“shamal winds”) which can disrupt infrastructure. If cell-sites are knocked out or slow, an eSIM that supports fallback networks/data roaming helps.
  
• Local calls/SMS & verification: Whether setting up services, getting verification codes (which often need a local number) or contacting hotels/restaurants, having voice/SMS support in your data plan is super valuable.
  
• Easy activation & top-ups: Often better if you can install & configure before arriving (so you’re connected once you land), and pick a plan that lets you top up without needing a physical store.

Don’t miss the details: read our full guide to the eSIM boom through 2030 and learn how it will shape the future of travel and tech.

How we chose the best eSIM for Bahrain

• Full-national coverage & 5G footprint: We reviewed maps and independent measurements to make sure providers cover every major area: Manama, Muharraq, rural and island regions.
  
• True pricing + no surprise fees: We prioritized eSIM options where what you see is what you pay: clear cost of data, validity period, any fees for setup or activation, and whether roaming or international traffic has additional charges.
  
• Speed & network experience in real life: We looked beyond nominal specs and into reported real-world speed, latency, and consistency from users. For example, whether you lose signal in Sitra or near island resorts.
  
• Plan flexibility & duration: We checked how many days each plan lasts, whether you can top up or extend while in Bahrain, and the smallest-reasonable data increments.
  
• Activation speed and support: We tested how fast an eSIM can be installed (QR code, app-based, instant). Also customer support matters: whether the provider offers help online or by phone, how responsive it is, etc.
  
• User feedback & localized testing: We gathered traveler reviews and local user reports to see what fails in practice: dead zones, poor advertised speed, bad customer service. 

How do I know if my device is eSIM compatible 

How to check if your iPhone supports eSIM

If you’re using an iPhone and want to know whether it can take an eSIM, here’s what to do:

1. Open the Settings app. This is the grey gear icon on your home screen.
   
2. Tap “General,” then select “About.”
   
3. Scroll down slowly. In the “About” section you’ll see technical information about your device. Look for something called “Digital SIM” or “IMEI (eSIM).”
   
   • If you see either of those, it means your iPhone is eSIM-ready.
   • If you don’t see them, your iPhone likely only supports physical SIM cards.

Every iPhone from the XR model (2018) onward supports eSIM, but only some regions have it enabled.

How to check if your Android supports eSIM

Android devices can look a little different depending on brand, but the process is similar:

1. Open your phone’s Settings app.
   
2. Look for “Connections” or “Network & Internet.” On Samsung, you’ll usually see “Connections.” On Google Pixel and other brands, it’s often “Network & Internet.”
   
3. Tap “SIM Manager” or “Mobile Network.”
   
4. Inside, check if there’s an option like “Add Mobile Plan,” “Download SIM,” or “eSIM.”
   
   • If you see one of these options, your device supports eSIM.
   • If you don’t see it, then your phone may only use physical SIM cards.

Most newer flagship phones (like Google Pixel 3 and above, or Samsung Galaxy S20 and above) come with eSIM support built in.

Still not sure about your phone?  Read the full guide on how to check if your iPhone or Android supports eSIM.

When to order and how to activate eSIM Bahrain

Before your trip, the easiest option is to buy an eSIM online before you land in Bahrain. That way, you can simply scan the QR code and connect as soon as your plane touches down at the airport.

If you’d rather get a local plan once you arrive, Bahrain’s main carriers (Batelco, STC, and Zain) sell eSIMs at the airport and in their city stores. This option works well if you want a plan tailored to local users.

For longer stays, such as relocation or extended business trips, it often makes sense to wait and order a local carrier eSIM after you arrive. These tend to offer better long-term rates than international travel eSIM providers.

How to activate a Bahrain eSIM on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).
3. Tap Add eSIM / Add Cellular Plan.
4. Scan the QR code you received, or choose Enter Details Manually if provided.
5. Your iPhone will download the eSIM profile → follow the prompts to label it (e.g. “Bahrain Data”).
6. Set it as Primary Data Line or Secondary if you’re using dual SIM.
7. Once added, turn on Mobile Data → you should see the local network appear (Batelco, STC, or Zain).

How to activate a Bahrain eSIM on Android

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Connections (Samsung) or Network & Internet (Pixel/others).
3. Select SIM Manager or Mobile Network.
4. Tap Add eSIM / Download eSIM / Add Mobile Plan.
5. Scan the QR code you received or enter the details manually.
6. The eSIM profile installs automatically → choose if you want it as default for data, calls, or both.
7. Restart your phone if the connection doesn’t start immediately.

Benefits of having a Bahrain eSIM

1. Instant internet access on arrival: Connect as soon as you land at Bahrain International Airport, without waiting in line at a SIM counter or worry about store hours.
   
2. No physical SIM required: Everything is handled digitally, so there’s no need to fumble with SIM ejector tools or keep track of a tiny plastic card.
   
3. Dual profiles on one device: Keep your home number active for calls and texts while using a local Bahrain eSIM for cheap data and domestic rates. This is especially handy for business travelers.
   
4. Strong local coverage: With eSIMs from Batelco, STC, or Zain, you can stay connected across Bahrain’s cities and business hubs without switching cards or carriers.
   
5. More secure and sustainable: eSIMs can’t be lost or stolen like physical SIM cards, and because they’re fully digital, they cut down on plastic waste.

Best eSIM for Bahrain: Which one to use

After reviewing Bahrain’s top eSIM providers across price, coverage, and real traveler feedback, one clear winner stands out. Holafly is the best eSIM for Bahrain in 2025, thanks to its truly unlimited data, instant activation, and 24/7 live support. 

It’s the only option that lets you forget about data caps while exploring Manama’s modern skyline, cruising over causeways, or relaxing on resort islands; all while staying seamlessly connected.

Other providers like Airalo, Maya Mobile, aloSIM, Nomad, and GigSky have their strengths, from budget-friendly starter packs to polished apps and global reach, but they all come with limits: capped data, patchy coverage, or slower support. 

For travelers who don’t want to worry about running out of data or troubleshooting setup while abroad, Holafly delivers the most stress-free experience.

Best eSIM for Bahrain FAQ