Zain KSA has launched a new service called Yaqoot that allows visitors to Saudi Arabia to authenticate and register their mobile SIMs through the Ministry of Interior’s Absher digital platform, eliminating the need for in-person verification at telecom branches. The development advances Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation initiatives, which have already seen the successful implementation of digital identity services for citizens and residents. Zain KSA Digital SIM registration

The service enables tourists and pilgrims to obtain both regular SIM cards and embedded eSIMs through the Yaqoot app. Registration is completed directly via the authentication section (WTHIQ) in the Absher app. The integration follows similar successful eSIM implementations in the Kingdom, though Yaqoot is the first digital telecom service to offer this specific authentication capability.

All “Yaqoot” customers arriving in Saudi Arabia—for tourism or to perform Hajj or Umrah—can now obtain either regular SIM cards or embedded eSIMs via the Yaqoot app and register them directly through Absher, without the need to visit a physical store. This marks a major enhancement in customer experience, allowing visitors to conduct identity verification and SIM activation online, rather than requiring in-person fingerprinting at telecom branches.

Njoud AlShehri, Zain KSA Executive VP of Strategy and Innovation, stated:

“Our strategy at Zain KSA is centered on delivering the best human-centric digital experience that enhances the quality of life and elevates the visitor journey to the Kingdom, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Yaqoot exemplifies this human-focused innovation, built on a deep understanding of our customers’ needs and the expectations of the Kingdom’s visitors for a seamless and integrated digital experience. This makes Yaqoot a partner in enriching users’ lives and empowering their aspirations. By collaborating with the Absher platform, Yaqoot enables the Kingdom’s visitors to authenticate their SIMs through the Absher App’s authentication services. This also demonstrates Yaqoot’s digital maturity and its agility in adopting cutting-edge technologies as part of our commitment to a fully integrated digital experience.”

The collaboration between Yaqoot and the Absher platform demonstrates the advancement of digital services in Saudi Arabia’s telecommunications sector, as the Kingdom continues to develop its digital infrastructure and services for both residents and visitors. The development represents a broader regional trend, where governments increasingly adopt digital solutions to streamline administrative processes and enhance user experience for citizens and visitors alike.

About Yaqoot Zain KSA Digital SIM registration

Since its launch in 2018, Yaqoot has become one of the most innovative digital products in Saudi Arabia, leveraging Zain KSA’s cutting-edge 5G network. It offers a range of digital packages through a dedicated app, allowing users to enjoy a reliable, end-to-end digital experience without needing biometric identifiers, documents, or paperwork. All procedures, from SIM ordering and activation to automatic monthly renewals, are completed digitally through the app. Yaqoot has received two MMA SMARTIES awards—Gold and Silver—for Best Innovative Marketing Campaigns in the Market Impact and Experience Technology categories. It also won the ‘Most Innovative Product/Service’ award at the 15th Telecom Review Summit.