Kuwait
Mobile networks and carriers in Kuwait use 2 GSM bands, 1 UMTS band, 3 LTE bands, and 2 5G NR bands. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work in Kuwait. See the tables below for details.
Will your phone or mobile device work in Kuwait?
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Check device compatibilityKuwait's mobile network has undergone significant development since its inception. The country's first telecom operator, Zain, was founded in 1983 as MTC (Mobile Telecommunications Company) and was later privatized in 1999 and rebranded as Zain in 2007. Zain operates in eight other countries in the MENA region and had a consumer base of 2.6 million by the end of 2018.
The mobile penetration in Kuwait is among the highest in the world, with operators like Zain, VIVA, and Ooredoo (formerly Wataniya) extensively working to build 5G infrastructure, mobile broadband services, and extensive LTE networks. These operators have been instrumental in enhancing connectivity and communication, transforming the way businesses operate and individuals connect.
In recent years, Kuwait has seen a rapid adoption of new digital technologies, including 5G, which has significantly improved mobile internet speeds. The country ranks among the top 10 in the world for mobile speeds, with a 138% increase in average mobile internet speeds from 2020 to 2021.
The government has played a crucial role in driving the growth of the telecommunications sector through initiatives aimed at enhancing broadband services, streamlining regulatory processes, and encouraging private sector investments in telecom infrastructure. This has led to the expansion of internet penetration and the development of smart city initiatives, leveraging 5G technology for real-time data exchange and efficient urban management.
Overall, Kuwait's mobile network has evolved from a government-controlled monopoly to a competitive market with advanced 5G services, significantly contributing to the country's economic growth and technological advancements.
Carriers
| Name | # of frequency bands in use |
|---|---|
| Ooredoo | 7 |
| stc | 7 |
| Viva | 4 |
| Zain | 6 |
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Frequencies in use
GSM
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| 900 MHz (E-GSM) | GSM |
| 1800 MHz (DCS) | GSM |
UMTS
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B1 (2100 MHz) | UMTS |
LTE
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B3 (1800 MHz +) | LTE |
| B7 (2600 MHz) | LTE |
| B20 (800 MHz DD) | LTE |
5G NR
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| N1 (2100 MHz) | 5G NR |
| N78 (3500 MHz) | 5G NR |
