Hi all! I just got a new iPhone in USA from AT&T, then found out I'm moving to KSA.
Can I change my phone to a local company once I am in country? Any adviceon what the best course is to get cell service working with my new phone once I get ther?
Also, I heard that AT&T can (has the ability to) unlock my phone, but that they still may not do it. I will contact them, but I am still interested in hearing about your experiances.
Thanks,
Jim
IPhone 5 AT&T
CuL8R
29 July 2013 22:36:14
7
TheLegendLeads
30 July 2013 01:44:24
5763
AT&T iphone won't work unless it's carrier unlocked. One of my friends here can do it.
CuL8R
30 July 2013 16:21:53
7
Thanks! I was just talking to AT&T and they said they would put in a request to apple to have my phone unlocked, even though I am still under contract. They said I could suspend my service while out of the country for a reduced rate (or not) and that all I would have to do is get a new sim card from a new carrier in KSA. If any of this doesn't work, I found out that there are many other ways to do this as well, but it is always nice to know someone who knows someone who can do it if the regular avenues prove futile!
Many thanks again,
Jim
hishmaj
31 July 2013 03:13:56
81
It's easier if AT&T can unlock it for you. That will have your work cut out. Otherwise you have to go through a third-party service that does it for you, for a small fee. I know many have used http://swiftunlocks.com/ and that site is very reliable. Googling "unlock iphone 5" will reveal a plethora of sites that does it, but you have to be careful when picking them.
Once you land in KSA, you get a SIM card from any of the three mobile operators in the contry. STC/Mobily/Zain. I personally like Mobily, but your mileage may vary. You can look at their website for data/call charges and pick one. Either a pre-paid or post-paid plan. You need your Iqama when taking a new connection. Else you can take it from their airport branch, where they might have a way to get around it, for people who have just landed and don't have a Iqama in their hand.
Also check with your company, if they don't already have a phone connection ready for when you arrive.
http://www.stc.com.sahttp://mobily.com.sa/http://www.sa.zain.com/
Subscribe to this topic
Articles to help you in your expat project in Saudi Arabia
Phones and Internet in Saudi Arabia
If you are moving to Saudi Arabia, you will probably need a phone and an internet connection. Take a look at how ...
Useful numbers and websites in Saudi Arabia
Below you will find everything you need to know about making calls in Saudi Arabia, as well as a list of ...
Everything you need to know as an expat woman in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia can be a challenging destination for women. As a strict Islamic country, Saudi Arabia imposes a lot ...
Driving in Saudi Arabia
Driving in Saudi Arabia is the easiest and most convenient way to get around. That being said, foreigners in Saudi ...
Dating in Saudi Arabia
If there was one adjective that could describe dating in Saudi Arabia, it would be the word 'discreet' ...
Getting married in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a country that holds marriage and family as one of its core values. It is a privilege to get ...
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
"