The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has released Decision No. 1 of 2026, introducing new regulatory guidance for international eSIM roaming services intended for use exclusively outside the Bahrain. The decision allows licensed mobile network operators to provide international-only eSIMs without applying the Kingdom’s standard SIM registration and verification requirements, provided strict operational conditions are met.
Under the decision, the permitted eSIMs must operate only on foreign networks, support data services exclusively, and cannot be used within Bahrain. Voice calls and SMS services are not allowed, except for emergency alerts. Operators must also implement technical controls to ensure these eSIMs remain restricted to international use, maintain operational records, and track their activity. In addition, the use of these eSIMs is limited to a maximum period of 90 days, reinforcing their intended role as short-term international connectivity solutions.
The TRA clarified that if an eSIM is ever activated within Bahrain—even temporarily—standard SIM registration requirements will immediately apply. Mobile network operators are also responsible for complying with the laws and regulations of any country where the eSIM service is used, including data protection obligations. Furthermore, the services cannot be marketed as standard Bahraini mobile subscriptions. The decision aims to support innovation in global eSIM services while preserving Bahrain’s regulatory oversight and national security safeguards.
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