dimk
Senior Member
Posts: 114
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Post by dimk on Sept 25, 2014 20:18:28 GMT
I've heard that internet is not available for the new hires on abqaiq compound.how true is that and if it is, how long normally takes for a new connection to be established? Do I need to apply for it at Aramco office? Is there a cost associated with the internet or it is paid by Aramco as well? do I need to get my iqama first in order to apply for an internet connection or not? Will I be able to get a permanent prepaid mobile number before getting my iqama or do I have to wait until my iqama is ready? As you understand, I'm trying to find ways for communication with my relatives  |
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Post by bamaster on Sept 26, 2014 8:38:20 GMT
Wow, that's a lot of questions. I've been here one week so I don't have all your answers.
My paperwork says home internet access (ADSL) is free. No, it is not available when you arrive. You will need an Aramco network ID and request it on the intranet and that will take time (I still don't have my network ID).
But you can easily get a pre-paid SIM card on DHA camp from STC or Mobily with just your temporary badge, very easy. I think I paid SAR130 for one month. You can also get a pre-paid wireless router as I did (or MiFi device). It cost me SAR650 for 3 month unlimited 4G router (including the router).
You will need your iqama to transfer the SIM and router to a monthly, post-paid plan. The iqama process is supposed to take 15 working days from orientation day, after they collect another blood sample, haha.After orientation, if there is time left, they will offer to take you to the STC store. I just asked someone in my department to take me. Also, remember that there is free wifi on the buses, too.
Just remember that you need an unlocked phone. You can buy them here, from very cheap (non-smart phones) to very expensive (flagship smartphones) if you need, but it is easier to get your phone unlocked before you depart.
If there is one piece of advice that is consistent on this forum... it is that you need patience. Nothing is immediate. If you must have internet access when you arrive, buy an international phone/data plan with your current mobile provider. Otherwise it will take at least 2-3 days before you can get online.
Good luck!
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dimk
Senior Member
Posts: 114
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Post by dimk on Sept 26, 2014 10:03:28 GMT
bamaster,
so as far as i undestand, if i want to get prepaid sim or prepaid internet, iqama or aramco id is not required. I can do that with my temporary badge, right?
Is there an stc or mobily shop in abqaiq compound except DH compound?
Are you happy with the internet connection speed of the pre-paid wireless router you told me about? Can you suggest me some good monthly post-paid plans of stc or mobily and how much do they cost actually??
Does my wife need to get her iqama and/or aramco id, so she can use all the facilities of the compound?
thanks a lot for your help! really appreciate this.
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Post by bamaster on Sept 26, 2014 17:25:19 GMT
dimk,
There isn't an STC or Mobily store in ABQ. Your orientation will be in DHA so just wait until then to go, which should be your first or second day at work. There are many different plans.
Not sure about your wife. Aramco IDs are required for everything though. Temp ID should be fine. I'm sure there are other discussions on this on this forum already.
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