Saudi Arabia is the only market in this guide with an explicit minimum-tenure rule — port your number in less than 60 days after your last switch, and the request gets rejected regardless of how clean your account otherwise is.
Quick answer
Download the app of the operator you want to join, verify via Nafath, and request the transfer with your Saudi ID or Iqama. Takes 24-72 hours.
The 60-day rule
If you’ve ported before, at least 60 days must have passed since that last transfer. This is checked automatically, so a rejection with no other obvious cause (clean dues, correct name) is often simply this cooldown period.
Requirements
- Active account, no outstanding dues
- Valid Saudi ID (citizens) or Iqama (residents)
- At least 60 days since your last port, if any
- You are the registered account owner
How to port
- Download the app of the operator you want to join
- Find “Transfer Number” / MNP
- Enter your current number and ID details
- Verify identity via Nafath
- Choose your new plan and SIM type
- Wait 24-72 hours — you’ll get SMS updates throughout
Verified against STC, Mobily, and Zain KSA’s official MNP guidance, August 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Clear dues
Pay all outstanding balances with your current operator. Use any remaining prepaid credit.
- 2
Initiate via new operator
Visit the NEW operator's store/app. Request number porting with your Saudi ID/Iqama.
- 3
Wait and verify
Transfer takes 24-72 hours. Old SIM works until new one activates. Do NOT cancel old service.
Alternative Methods
MySTC / Mobily / Zain App > Transfer Number
Operator websites > MNP section
Troubleshooting
Port request rejected
Common reasons: outstanding dues, account not in your name, ported less than 60 days ago. Resolve with current operator first.
Old SIM still working after 72 hours
Contact the new operator. There may be a delay — call their customer care for status update.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my number?
No — MNP is designed specifically to keep your number, as long as you don't cancel your old service yourself first.
How long does porting take?
Typically 24-72 hours, with SMS notifications along the way.
Why does Nafath matter here?
It's the identity-verification step the new operator uses to confirm you're the legitimate account owner before activating the port.
My port was rejected — why?
Check for outstanding dues, a name mismatch, or whether fewer than 60 days have passed since your last port.