Two different problems get mistaken for each other on STC: a genuine data-balance issue, and an APN misconfiguration that leaves internet not working even though your data balance is perfectly fine. Knowing which check answers which question saves a lot of wasted troubleshooting.
Quick answer
Dial *166*11# for a direct data balance check, or *888*5# to see all active packages together.
Balance fine, but internet not working?
If your data balance shows plenty remaining but internet still won’t load, the balance isn’t the problem — check your APN settings instead. STC’s APN should be set to jawalnet.com.sa under Settings → Cellular → APN. This is a device-configuration issue, not a balance one, and no amount of re-checking *166*11# will fix it.
SMS backup
Send 2220 to 900 if USSD shows “service temporarily unavailable” — a reliable alternative during STC network maintenance windows.
The Wi-Fi Assist trap (iPhone)
iPhone’s Wi-Fi Assist feature silently switches to mobile data when Wi-Fi is weak, which can drain a data package faster than expected without any obvious cause. Turn it off under Settings → Cellular if your data seems to disappear mysteriously.
Need to top up? See recharging STC.
Verified against STC’s official support guidance, August 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Open your phone dialer
Launch the Phone app and go to the keypad. Make sure your STC SIM has network signal.
- 2
Dial the data balance code
Type *166*11# and press Call for a direct data balance check. Alternatively, use *888*5# to see all active packages including data. The result appears as a pop-up message.
- 3
Review your remaining data
The response shows your active data package name, remaining data (in GB or MB), and expiry date. If you have multiple packages, each is listed separately. Plan your renewal before the package expires.
Alternative Methods
Dial *166*11# from your phone dialer.
Send "2220" to 900
MySTC App > Home > Data Usage Meter
Login at my.stc.com.sa > Usage
Troubleshooting
Data balance shows data remaining but internet is not working
Check that Mobile Data is turned on in your phone settings. Verify your APN settings: go to Settings > Cellular > APN and ensure it's set to "jawalnet.com.sa". If still not working, toggle Airplane Mode on and off.
*166*11# shows "service temporarily unavailable"
STC's USSD service may be under maintenance. Try the SMS method: send 2220 to 900. Or use the MySTC app for instant, always-available data balance checking.
Look Up More USSD Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when my STC data runs out?
Internet stops or switches to pay-per-use — purchase a new package via the MySTC app or dial *888#.
Can I carry over unused STC data?
Some postpaid plans allow rollover; prepaid packages typically do not.
Why is my STC data running out so fast?
Background app updates, cloud sync, and iPhone's Wi-Fi Assist silently using mobile data are common causes.
My data balance is fine but internet doesn't work — why?
Check your APN settings (should be jawalnet.com.sa) rather than the balance — this is a configuration issue, not a data problem.
What if *166*11# says "service temporarily unavailable"?
Send 2220 to 900 by SMS, or use the MySTC app instead.