22SIM Frequently Asked Questions
- 22SIM Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about using a 22SIM travel eSIM — from activation and device compatibility to pricing, coverage, refunds, and troubleshooting. Can’t find your answer? Contact our 24/7 support team via the help center.
Getting started with 22SIM
What is 22SIM?
22SIM is a global travel eSIM provider operated by TM APP GENERAL TRADING CO. WLL, a company registered in Kuwait City, Kuwait. We offer instant-activation mobile data plans for travelers and businesses in more than 200 countries, with transparent pricing starting from $2, no roaming fees, and 24/7 customer support in Arabic and English.
What is an eSIM and how is it different from a regular SIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical plastic card, you install a digital eSIM profile by scanning a QR code or tapping an activation link in the 22SIM app. The technology is fully GSMA-compliant and works on all major eSIM-enabled smartphones released since 2018.
How does 22SIM work?
It's a 3-step process. First, download the 22SIM app from the App Store or Google Play and choose your destination plan. Second, complete your purchase securely with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card. Third, scan the QR code we send you, or tap the install link — your eSIM activates automatically as soon as you land in a covered country. The whole process takes under 60 seconds.
Is 22SIM safe and legitimate?
Yes. 22SIM is operated by TM APP GENERAL TRADING CO. WLL, a Kuwait-registered company. We use encrypted connections, secure payment processors (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa, Mastercard), and GSMA-compliant eSIM provisioning. Our iOS and Android apps are verified by Apple and Google. Read reviews from real customers on Trustpilot.
Coverage and destinations
Which countries does 22SIM cover?
22SIM provides eSIM coverage in over 200 countries and regions worldwide, including all GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman), Europe, North America, most of Asia, and parts of Africa and Oceania. You can choose between local plans (single country), regional plans (Europe, Middle East, Southeast Asia, Americas), or global plans covering multiple continents.
Does 22SIM work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. 22SIM offers full eSIM coverage across Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Dammam, Khobar, and all major cities. We partner with leading Saudi networks (STC, Mobily, Zain) to deliver reliable 4G and 5G connectivity. Saudi Arabia plans start from $4.50 for 1GB / 7 days.
Does 22SIM work for Hajj and Umrah?
Yes, 22SIM is one of the most popular eSIM choices for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. We provide dedicated plans for Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah with durations matched to typical pilgrimage stays (10, 15, or 30 days). Our Arabic-speaking support team is available 24/7 during Hajj season to help with any setup issues. We recommend installing your eSIM 24-48 hours before travel to ensure smooth activation.
Does 22SIM support 5G?
Yes. Your 22SIM eSIM connects to 5G networks wherever your destination's local carriers offer 5G coverage, including major cities in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, the United States, the United Kingdom, and most European countries. In areas without 5G, your eSIM automatically falls back to 4G LTE for the fastest available speed. No additional setup is required.
Device compatibility
Is my phone compatible with 22SIM?
Most smartphones released since 2018 support eSIM. This includes iPhone XS and newer (XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and all iPhone SE 2020/2022 models), Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 4 and newer, and select Huawei devices. To verify: go to Settings → About Phone → look for "EID" (an EID number means eSIM is supported). Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked.
Can I use 22SIM on an iPhone and a Samsung at the same time?
Each 22SIM eSIM is locked to a single device after first installation and cannot be transferred. If you need to use 22SIM on multiple devices (e.g., an iPhone and an iPad), purchase one plan per device. You can manage multiple eSIM profiles from the same 22SIM account in the app.
Can I use 22SIM as a hotspot or for tethering?
Yes. All 22SIM plans support tethering and personal hotspot, allowing you to share your eSIM data connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices. Hotspot data usage counts against your plan allowance. For digital nomads who tether heavily, we recommend larger data plans (10GB+) or unlimited regional plans.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number while using 22SIM?
Yes. The 22SIM eSIM is data-only and does not replace your regular phone number. Your existing SIM stays active for calls, SMS, and WhatsApp — meanwhile, 22SIM provides your data connection. WhatsApp, Telegram, FaceTime, Signal, and any other VoIP app will work normally on the 22SIM data connection.
Will I receive SMS verification codes while traveling?
Yes, on your original SIM. Because 22SIM is data-only, your home SIM continues to receive SMS verification codes from banks, government services, and 2FA apps normally. We recommend keeping your home SIM active (not removed) and using 22SIM as a secondary data line.
Pricing and payment
How much does 22SIM cost?
22SIM plans start from $2 for short trips. Typical pricing examples: a 7-day, 1GB Saudi Arabia plan starts from $4.50; a 30-day, 5GB USA plan starts from around $19; a 7-day global plan covering 100+ countries starts from $9. There are no hidden fees, no contracts, and no auto-renewal — you only pay for what you choose. View all current plans in the 22SIM app or on our shop.
What payment methods does 22SIM accept?
We accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and regional payment methods including mada (Saudi Arabia) and KNET (Kuwait). All payments are processed through encrypted, PCI-DSS-compliant gateways. We do not store your card details.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. If your 22SIM eSIM doesn't work and our support team cannot resolve the issue, you're entitled to a full refund. Refund requests must be submitted within 30 days of purchase. eSIMs that have been activated and used for data cannot be refunded unless there's a confirmed technical fault. Read our full refund policy.
Troubleshooting and support
My 22SIM eSIM isn't activating. What should I do?
First, verify three things: your phone supports eSIM (Settings → About → look for EID), your phone is carrier-unlocked, and data roaming is enabled for the 22SIM line (Settings → Cellular → 22SIM → Data Roaming → On). If the eSIM still won't activate after you land in your destination country, contact our 24/7 support team via the help center or in-app chat — we typically respond within minutes.
How do I contact 22SIM customer support?
Our support team is available 24/7 through three channels: in-app chat (fastest response, available inside the 22SIM iOS and Android apps), the 22SIM Help Center, and our contact form. We respond in Arabic and English. Average response time is under 5 minutes during business hours and under 30 minutes overnight.
Still have questions?
Visit the 22SIM Help Center for detailed guides, or download the 22SIM app and chat with us 24/7.