Quick Facts
- Service name: Zain International Balance Transfer
- Who can use it: Zain prepaid SIM holders only (postpaid excluded)
- USSD code: *111*[international number]*[amount]#
- Minimum transfer: SAR 5 per transaction
- Maximum per transaction: SAR 50
- Daily limit: SAR 100
- Monthly limit: SAR 450
- Transfer fee: SAR 0.50 per transaction deducted from the sender’s balance
- Countries covered: 30+ countries including Pakistan, India, Philippines, Bangladesh, Nepal, Egypt, Yemen, and Sudan
- Data transfer: Not available — airtime credit only
- Reversal: Not possible; always confirm the recipient number before sending
- Customer care: Call 959 free from Zain or 0590000959 from other networks
Why Expats Use Zain International Balance Transfer
Saudi Arabia is home to over 13 million expatriate workers, with the largest communities from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Egypt. Staying connected with family back home is a constant priority, and occasionally a family member runs low on airtime at a critical moment.
Zain’s International Balance Transfer service solves this directly: you send mobile credit from your Saudi prepaid Zain account to almost any mobile number in their home country. The credit arrives in minutes, and your family member can use it to make calls, send SMS, or activate a local data package, depending on what their local operator supports.
This is different from money transfer services like Western Union or STC Pay. You are not sending money into a bank account; you are topping up a mobile phone directly with calling credit. It is fast, costs very little, and requires nothing more than the USSD code or the Zain App.
Method 1: USSD Code (Fastest Method)
This is the most commonly used method. It works directly from the phone dialer with no internet connection required.
How to Transfer to Pakistan
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Dial: *111*0092[Pakistani mobile number]*[amount]# Example: To send SAR 10 to Pakistani number 03001234567, dial *111*00923001234567*10#
- Press the call button
- A confirmation pop-up appears. Reply with 1 to confirm the transfer
- You receive an SMS confirming the transaction was successful
- The recipient receives their credit within minutes
Pakistani country code: 0092
How to Transfer to India
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Dial: *111*0091[Indian mobile number]*[amount]# Example: To send SAR 5 to Indian number 09812345678, dial *111*00919812345678*5#
- Press call, then reply with 1 to confirm
Indian country code: 0091
How to Transfer to the Philippines
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Dial: *111*0063[Philippine mobile number]*[amount]# Example: To send SAR 10 to a Philippine number 09171234567, dial *111*006391234567*10# (Note: drop the leading 0 from the local number when adding the country code)
- Press call, then reply with 1 to confirm
Philippine country code: 0063
How to Transfer to Bangladesh
- Dial: *111*0088[Bangladeshi mobile number]*[amount]# Example: *111*008801712345678*5#
- Press call, confirm with 1
Bangladeshi country code: 0088
How to Transfer to Other Countries
The same USSD format works for all supported countries:
*111*[country code][mobile number]*[amount]#
Replace [country code] and [mobile number] with the destination details. A full list of supported countries appears below.
Method 2: Via the Zain App
The Zain App is the recommended method in 2026 because it reduces the chance of entering a wrong number, provides a clear confirmation screen before funds are sent, and creates a transaction record you can refer back to.
Steps:
- Open the Zain App on your phone (download from Google Play or App Store if not installed)
- Log in with your Zain account credentials
- Tap the “International Transfer” or “Balance Transfer” section
- Select “International Transfer”
- Enter the recipient’s mobile number, including the country code
- Enter the amount to send (minimum SAR 5)
- Review the confirmation screen carefully, especially the number
- Confirm with your app PIN or biometric authentication
- The transfer completes immediately, and you receive a confirmation notification
Why the app is better for international transfers: The app shows the country flag and operator name for the number you entered before you confirm. This helps catch errors like a wrong digit before it is too late. Transfers via the app cannot be reversed after confirmation.
Method 3: SMS to 702702 (Local Transfers)
The SMS method via 702702 works for local Zain-to-Zain transfers within Saudi Arabia only. It does not work for international transfers.
For local transfers:
- Open your messaging app
- Type: BT [recipient Zain number] [amount] Example: BT 0591234567 20
- Send to 702702
- You receive confirmation when the transfer is complete
The recipient then needs to accept the transfer by replying through the same SMS system or via the Zain App.
Countries You Can Send Zain Balance To
Zain KSA’s international balance transfer service covers 30+ countries as of 2026. The most commonly used destinations for expats in Saudi Arabia include:
South Asia Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Southeast Asia Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia
Middle East and North Africa Egypt, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Libya, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia
East Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya (select networks)
Central Asia and Other Kazakhstan, China (select networks)
Always verify that the specific destination network is supported before sending. Some countries may have only certain local operators covered. Contact Zain at 959 or check sa.zain.com if you are unsure about a specific number.
Country Codes Reference Table
| Country | Country Code | Example Format |
|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 0092 | *111*0092XXXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| India | 0091 | *111*0091XXXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Philippines | 0063 | *111*0063XXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Bangladesh | 0088 | *111*0088XXXXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Nepal | 00977 | *111*00977XXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Indonesia | 0062 | *111*0062XXXXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Egypt | 0020 | *111*0020XXXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Yemen | 00967 | *111*00967XXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Jordan | 00962 | *111*00962XXXXXXXXX*amount# |
| Sudan | 00249 | *111*00249XXXXXXXXX*amount# |
Remove the leading 0 from local mobile numbers before adding the country code. Example: Pakistan number 03001234567 becomes 00923001234567.
Transfer Limits and Fees (2026)
| Rule | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum transfer per transaction | SAR 5 |
| Maximum transfer per transaction | SAR 50 |
| Maximum per day | SAR 100 |
| Maximum per month | SAR 450 |
| Transfer fee per transaction | SAR 0.50 (deducted from sender’s balance) |
| Service availability | No. Only the main account credit can be transferred |
| Bonus credit transferable | No. Only main account credit can be transferred |
| Data transfer | Not available |
| Reversal after confirmation | Not possible |
Important note on fees: Some destination countries may charge a processing fee at the receiving end, depending on the local operator. The recipient receives slightly less than the SAR amount sent, as the exchange and processing happen at the destination network’s end. Check the confirmation screen before sending to see the expected amount the recipient will receive.
Terms and Conditions You Must Know
Prepaid only: The international balance transfer service is exclusively available to Zain prepaid SIM holders in Saudi Arabia. Postpaid subscribers cannot send or receive through this service.
Sufficient balance required: You must have enough credit in your account to cover both the transfer amount and the SAR 0.50 fee. If your balance is insufficient, the transaction will fail and you will receive an error SMS.
No bonus credit: Any bonus credit received through Zain promotions, package bonuses, or special offers cannot be transferred. Only your main prepaid account balance is eligible.
Transfers are final: Once you confirm with “1” in the USSD flow or confirm in the app, the transaction cannot be reversed. Always double-check the recipient’s number, especially the country code, before confirming.
Recipient SIM type: The recipient’s number does not need to be on Zain. International transfers go to any active mobile number in the supported destination countries, regardless of which operator the recipient uses locally.
Active SIM requirement: Your Zain SIM must be active. If your SIM has not been used for more than 90 days, Zain may restrict outgoing services including balance transfers. Use the SIM for a call, SMS, or data to reactivate it.
Number validity: Confirm that the recipient’s number is active and correct before sending. A transfer to an inactive or incorrect number may not be recoverable.
What Happens If the Transfer Fails
If your international balance transfer fails, you will receive an SMS from Zain explaining the reason. Common causes and solutions:
Insufficient balance: You do not have enough credit to cover the transfer amount plus the SAR 0.50 fee. Top up your account first, then try again.
Wrong number format: The country code or number may be incorrect. Double-check the number. Make sure you have removed the leading 0 from the local number before adding the country code.
Daily limit reached: You have sent SAR 100 or more that day. The limit resets at midnight Saudi time. Try the next day again.
Monthly limit reached: You have sent SAR 450 or more this month. Wait until the next calendar month.
Destination not supported: The specific operator or country may not be part of Zain’s international transfer network. Call 959 to confirm supported destinations.
SIM inactive: Restart your phone, ensure you have a Zain signal, and try again. If the problem persists, call 959 for assistance.
International Balance Transfer vs Other Ways to Send Money Home
| Method | What It Sends | Speed | Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zain International Balance Transfer | Mobile airtime credit | Minutes | SAR 0.50 | Topping up family phone quickly |
| STC Pay International Remittance | Money to bank or wallet | Hours to days | Varies | Larger amounts to bank accounts |
| Western Union / MoneyGram | Money to bank or cash pickup | Hours to days | Varies | Larger amounts, cash pickup |
| Bank Wire Transfer | Money to bank account | 1 to 3 days | Bank fees | Salary remittance |
| Zain Flex Minutes (calling home) | Direct calls included in plan | Instant | Included in plan | Monthly calling without separate transfer |
When to use Zain International Balance Transfer: When your family member in Pakistan, India, the Philippines, or Bangladesh is out of credit and needs to make an urgent call. The transaction takes minutes and costs SAR 0.50 regardless of the amount.
When to use Flex minutes instead: If you call home regularly every month, Zain’s Flex prepaid plans (starting at Flex F69 for SAR 79.35) already include international calling minutes to 20+ countries built into the plan. This is more cost-effective for regular callers than doing balance transfers.
Local Zain to Zain Balance Transfer (Within Saudi Arabia)
If you need to transfer credit to another Zain number inside Saudi Arabia rather than internationally, the process is slightly different.
Via SMS (method 1):
- Open messaging app
- Type: BT [recipient’s Zain number] [amount]
- Send to 702702
Via Zain App (method 2):
- Open the Zain App
- Go to Balance Transfer
- Select Local Transfer
- Enter the recipient’s Zain number and amount
- Confirm with your PIN or biometric
Local transfer fee: SAR 0.50 per transaction.
Local transfer limits:
- Minimum: SAR 10 per transfer
- Maximum per transaction: SAR 50
- Daily limit: SAR 100
The recipient must accept the transfer by replying via SMS or the app. The recipient cannot be on postpaid, and you cannot transfer bonus credit or data balances.
How to Check Your Zain Balance Before Transferring
Before initiating an international balance transfer, confirm you have enough credit:
- Send BC to 959 via SMS to receive your current balance
- Dial *142# to check your balance instantly via USSD
- Open the Zain App and view the Dashboard for a real-time balance display
Remember to account for the SAR 0.50 transaction fee in addition to the transfer amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Dial *111*[Pakistan number with country code 0092]*[amount]# and press call. Confirm with 1. Example: to send SAR 10 to 03001234567, dial *111*00923001234567*10#. The minimum is SAR 5, and the daily limit is SAR 100.
A. Yes. Use the format *111*0091[Indian mobile number]*[amount]# and confirm with 1. Remove the leading 0 from the Indian number before adding 0091.
A. Yes. Dial *111*0063[Philippine number]*[amount]#. Remove the leading 0 from the local Philippine number before adding 0063.
A. Yes. Bangladesh uses country code 0088: *111*0088[number]*[amount]#. Nepal uses 00977: *111*00977[number]*[amount]#.
A. SAR 100 per day. The maximum per single transaction is SAR 50. The monthly limit is SAR 450.
A. Yes. Zain deducts SAR 0.50 from your balance for each transfer transaction. Some destination countries may also apply a processing fee at the receiving end; check the confirmation screen before confirming.
A. No. Transfers are final once confirmed. Always double-check the recipient’s complete number, including the correct country code, before pressing confirm.
A. No. The international balance transfer service is only available to prepaid Zain SIM holders. Postpaid users are not eligible.
A. No. Only airtime credit can be transferred internationally. You cannot send data packages or internet bundles through the international balance transfer service.
A. Check your balance (send BC to 959), verify the recipient’s number and country code, and confirm you have not exceeded the daily limit of SAR 100. If the issue continues, call Zain customer care at 959 (free from Zain).
A. Yes. Open the Zain App, go to Balance Transfer, select International Transfer, enter the recipient’s number with country code, and enter the amount. The app shows the destination country flag before you confirm, reducing the chance of errors
Conclusion: Fastest Way to Top Up Family Phones from Saudi Arabia
Zain’s International Balance Transfer service is the quickest and most affordable way to send mobile credit to family and friends in Pakistan, India, the Philippines, Bangladesh, and 30+ other countries from Saudi Arabia. A SAR 0.50 fee, a five-second USSD code, and a confirmation SMS are all it takes.
For best results, use the Zain App instead of the USSD code when you are transferring for the first time or sending to a number you have not used before. The app shows you the destination country and operator before you confirm, significantly reducing the risk of an irreversible transfer to the wrong number.
If you call home regularly, consider activating a Zain Flex plan instead. Flex plans include international calling minutes to 20+ countries built into the monthly price, making them more cost-effective than individual balance transfers for frequent callers.
Zain customer care: Call 959 free from any Zain line or 0590000959 from other networks. Available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Related Zain guides on Saudi Scoop:
- Zain KSA Prepaid and Postpaid Call Packages 2026 for Flex international calling plans
- Zain KSA Internet Packages 2026 for Zain data packages
- Visitor SIM Card Packages Saudi Arabia 2026 for tourist and pilgrim SIM options
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. Transfer limits, fees, supported countries, and procedures are subject to change by Zain KSA. Saudi Scoop is not affiliated with Zain KSA. Always verify current terms at sa.zain.com or by calling 959 before transferring.
This blog post is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to ensure the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and well-sourced, we cannot guarantee its completeness or absolute accuracy. All images, videos, and logos featured on this page are the property of their respective owners. We make every effort to provide proper credit and references. If you are the rightful owner and would like your image, video, or logo removed, please contact us.
Aleena Tanveer is a dentist, author, and writer with a passion for both healthcare and storytelling. She combines her medical expertise with her love for writing to create informative, engaging content that educates and inspires readers.
