Every mobile number and data SIM in Saudi Arabia is registered to an ID: the Iqama for residents, the national ID for citizens, or a commercial registration for companies. A number registered in your name but used by someone else can cause you problems, from unpaid bills to misuse of the line. The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) offers a free service to check every number linked to your ID. This guide explains how to use it, what to do if a number is not yours, and your main rights as a mobile user.
In short: the CST’s Inquire about my numbers service is free and shows every number and data SIM linked to your ID. If one is not yours, complain to the provider, then to the CST after 5 working days.
The CST service
The Inquire about my numbers service lets you view the phone numbers and data SIMs registered with your ID at the telecom service providers.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who can use it | Anyone with a national ID, Iqama, or a commercial registration number |
| Cost | Free |
| Processing time | Immediate |
| Numbers shown | Active and authenticated numbers only |
| Providers covered | All licensed mobile providers |
Steps
- Open the CST service page and click Start Service.
- Choose the query category (individual or commercial registration).
- Enter your ID or commercial registration number.
- If asked, enter the mobile number concerned.
- Run the query and read the list.
Tip: take a screenshot of the result. If you later dispute a line with a provider, it shows what was registered in your name on that date.
If a number is not yours
- Complain to the provider of that number through its customer care channels, and keep the complaint number.
- If the problem is not resolved within five working days, escalate the complaint to the CST through its complaints service. See telecom complaints in Saudi Arabia.
Watch out: a line registered with your Iqama is legally linked to you. Do not lend your Iqama to anyone to open a line, and act quickly if an unknown number appears.
If one of your numbers is missing
The service shows only active and authenticated numbers. If a number you use does not appear, contact your provider to authenticate it.
SIM registration and fingerprints
SIM cards are issued and updated after the subscriber’s identity is verified, usually by fingerprint at the provider. The CST states that fingerprint verification when issuing or updating a SIM card is free. A temporary SIM authentication code, obtained through the national digital identity system, can also be used to issue and authenticate a SIM without fingerprints; check with your provider how it applies to you.
If you are asked to pay for fingerprint verification
The CST has stated that fingerprint verification applies to SIM and data cards issued or updated through providers, their agents and official distributors, that it is free, and that charging for it violates its directives. If a shop asks you to pay, report it to the CST.
Your personal data at the operator
The implementing regulations of the Telecommunications Law set clear duties for providers:
| Rule | Article |
|---|---|
| The provider is responsible for your information and the confidentiality of your communications | 58 |
| It may not collect, process or disclose your information without your consent, except as allowed by law | 58 |
| It must state why it collects your information and not use it for other purposes | 58 |
| It must verify that your information and documents are correct and protect them | 60 |
| You may ask to see your information and documents, and to correct or remove information, with justification | 60 |
Tip: if a line appears in your name, ask the provider which identity document was used to open it. Your right of access under Article 60 supports that request.
Cancelling a line you no longer use
For billed (postpaid) services, the CST’s procedures require the provider to give you a written or electronic confirmation of your cancellation request and its date; you do not pay fees after that date. Value-added services can be cancelled by contacting customer service, by SMS, email or other electronic means, without visiting a branch.
Keep the confirmation: it is your proof if the line is later billed.
Your main rights as a mobile user
The CST lists these rights for telecom users:
| Right | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number portability | Keep your number when changing provider, free, within 3 working hours at most |
| Data alerts | An SMS when you have used 80% of your package, and another at 100% |
| Trial offers | No charge after a trial period unless you expressly agree to continue |
| Suspension | Suspend your service for up to 12 months, paying only the suspension fees |
| Bills | Clear, detailed bills in your preferred language, sent electronically; you may object to any charge |
| Roaming | Not activated without your request; an SMS when you connect to a foreign network |
| Privacy | The provider must protect your data from leaks, loss or misuse |
| Contact | Several free and easy channels to reach the provider |
The providers listed by the CST for number portability are STC, Mobily, Zain, Virgin and Lebara.
Changing provider and keeping your number
- Ask the new provider to port your number; you do not need to visit the old one.
- Money you owe the old provider does not block the transfer, but you must still pay it.
- On a prepaid line, the remaining balance is lost when the number moves.
When to check your numbers
- Before leaving Saudi Arabia for good: make sure no line stays active in your name. See final exit visa.
- After losing your phone or Iqama.
- Regularly, to spot any line opened without your knowledge.
Test your connection
If your problem is slow internet rather than an unknown line, measure your connection with our internet speed test, then complain with your results if it stays below your plan.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know how many SIM cards are registered in my name in Saudi Arabia?
Use the free Inquire about my numbers service of the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). It shows the phone numbers and data SIMs registered with your ID at all telecom providers.
Is the CST numbers check free?
Yes. The CST lists no service fee, and the result is shown immediately.
What should I do if a number registered in my name is not mine?
File a complaint with the provider's customer care. If it is not resolved within five working days, escalate it to the CST through its complaints service.
Why does a number I use not appear?
The service shows only active and authenticated numbers. Contact your provider to authenticate the number.
Is fingerprint verification for a SIM card free?
Yes. The CST states that fingerprint verification when issuing or updating a SIM card with a mobile operator is a free service.
Can I keep my number if I change operator?
Yes. Number portability is free, and the CST sets a maximum of 3 working hours to move your number to another provider (STC, Mobily, Zain, Virgin or Lebara).
Can I ask my operator to correct or delete my personal data?
Yes. The implementing regulations of the Telecommunications Law let a user request access to their information and documents held by the provider, and ask for correction or removal with the necessary justification.
What if a shop charges me for fingerprint verification of a SIM?
The CST states that fingerprint verification of SIM and data cards is free and that charging for it violates its directives. You can report it to the CST.
Official sources
- Communications, Space and Technology Commission — Inquire about my numbers: purpose, beneficiaries, steps, free service, immediate result, active and authenticated numbers only, complaint then escalation after five working days.
- CST — Telecommunication user awareness: number portability (free, 3 working hours), data alerts, trial offers, suspension up to 12 months, bills, roaming, privacy.
- CST — Facilitating number porting procedures: request to the new provider, outstanding dues, prepaid balance lost.
- CST — Fingerprint verification service is free: free fingerprint verification for SIM and data cards, charging for it is a violation.
- CST — Procedures for establishment of billed services, cancellation and documentation: cancellation confirmation, no fees after the cancellation date, cancelling value-added services remotely.
- CST — Implementing Regulations of the Telecommunications and Information Technology Law: Articles 58 and 60 (privacy, access, correction and removal of user information).
This information is for guidance only and may change. Always check with the relevant authority or its official website before starting a procedure. Spotted an error? Tell us.
