Saudi Arabia – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Saudi Arabia?

Three facilities-based unified telecommunications licence holders dominate the sector — Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Etihad Etisalat Company (Mobily), and Zain Saudi Arabia — collectively delivering a full spectrum of internet services, from fibre-optic broadband and 5G fixed wireless access through to mobile internet for residential, business, and government customers. Together they command the lion’s share of a market that has seen remarkable growth in connectivity. Each operator has its own distinct strengths.

STC is the country’s largest telecommunications company, serving individuals, enterprises, and government bodies with fixed-line, mobile, and internet products. It holds the broadest geographic reach of any Saudi operator across both fixed and mobile networks and has been systematically growing its 5G footprint since the technology’s commercial launch in 2019. Residential packages can be explored at stc.com.sa.

Mobily holds the distinction of having introduced 4G services to Saudi Arabia before any other carrier. The company has built a reputation for digital innovation, with a portfolio spanning fibre-optic broadband, mobile payments, e-commerce platforms, and cloud computing solutions. As the second-largest broadband provider in the Kingdom, Mobily served approximately 600,000 subscribers — a market share of 19.4% — as of December 2024. Current plans and coverage details are available at mobily.com.sa.

Established in 1983, Zain KSA positions itself as an innovation-driven operator committed to digital transformation. The company continually explores emerging technologies to improve its service offering and better address evolving customer expectations. As the smallest of the three main consumer telecoms providers, Zain had 470,000 broadband subscribers and held a market share of 15.2% in December 2024. You can review Zain’s plans at zain.com/sa.

Several specialist operators also serve the Kingdom. GO Telecom delivers competitive fibre internet plans to both households and businesses, with ongoing infrastructure investment aimed at improving service quality. Salam provides broadband, interconnection, and satellite services across consumer, business, and wholesale segments, operating six data centres and independent infrastructure that includes two International Cable Landing Stations linking Saudi Arabia to global submarine cable networks. For locations where terrestrial infrastructure cannot reach, the Saudi Public Investment Fund-owned Neo Space Group (NSG) offers a wide range of communications services, specialising in satellite connectivity and Internet of Things (IoT) applications using Non-Terrestrial networks.

Always consult official provider websites for up-to-date pricing and package details, as offerings change frequently. Comparison platforms such as Giraffy KSA allow you to view and compare live deals across multiple providers side by side.

What types of internet connection are available in Saudi Arabia?

The range of connection types available in Saudi Arabia is broad. Fixed broadband via fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) delivers speeds of up to 1 Gbps from providers including STC and Mobily, supporting both residential and commercial users. The extent of FTTH availability places Saudi Arabia on a par with the world’s most advanced markets — well ahead of countries where fibre rollout to suburban and rural properties is still underway.

Mobile broadband encompasses 4G and 5G plans, with 5G enabling rapid on-the-go data access through operators such as Zain and Salam. 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) — a home broadband solution that uses the 5G mobile network rather than a physical cable to deliver connectivity through a router — has emerged as a popular and rapidly growing alternative to traditional wired connections. For households looking for the highest performance, 5G home internet delivers download and upload speeds that can match conventional fibre services, making it well suited to high-definition video streaming, online gaming, and video calls. Setup is quick and requires minimal equipment, removing the need for extensive physical installation work.

Riyadh, as the capital and most populous city, benefits from comprehensive coverage by all the leading operators — STC, Mobily, and Zain — with fibre-optic, 4G, 5G, and DSL services available to accommodate a wide range of requirements. Jeddah similarly enjoys strong internet coverage, with fibre-optic and mobile data services widely accessible and a broad selection of plans from major providers to suit different budgets and usage levels.

In rural and remote parts of the Kingdom, the range of available technologies narrows. Fibre-optic and DSL services frequently do not extend to these locations, but 4G — and increasingly 5G — mobile broadband provides adequate connectivity for everyday use. Satellite internet serves as a fallback where terrestrial options are completely absent, ensuring even the most isolated areas can maintain some level of online access. This pattern mirrors what is seen in other large countries such as Australia and Canada, where major cities are well served by advanced infrastructure while vast remote regions depend on wireless or satellite solutions.

DSL connections over legacy copper telephone lines remain available in certain locations but are progressively being superseded by fibre or 5G FWA. If you are moving into a new apartment or villa, it is worth speaking to your building manager and your preferred provider to establish which connection types are physically accessible at your specific address before committing to a contract.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Saudi Arabia?

In 2024, Saudi Arabia climbed to eighth place globally for internet speed, recording an average mobile download speed of 128.03 megabits per second in June, according to a report from Speedtest.net, the specialist platform that benchmarks mobile internet performance worldwide. This result places the Kingdom meaningfully ahead of many established markets across Europe and North America when it comes to mobile connectivity.

On fixed broadband, Saudi Arabia’s average download speed of 160.79 Mbit/second places it 44th in international rankings, while the upload rate of 79.41 Mbit/second is considerably lower. These fixed-line figures are broadly comparable to well-connected Western European markets, though upload performance falls short of the near-symmetrical speeds delivered by the advanced fibre networks found in countries such as Japan and South Korea.

According to Opensignal data for 2025, STC led the mobile field with average download speeds of 63.8 Mbps and upload speeds of 13.4 Mbps. Mobily performs strongly in gaming and video streaming experience metrics. Zain’s FWA service leads on raw speed for fixed wireless users, delivering the fastest average download figures among competing services in the Kingdom, with upload performance matching that of Mobily.

By 2024, 5G network coverage had reached 84% of the population, while 4G coverage stood at 100%. Reliability in the major urban centres is generally strong, reflecting the substantial infrastructure investment made by all three leading operators. Given Saudi Arabia’s vast geography and the considerable distances separating its cities, achieving uniform nationwide performance remains an ongoing challenge, and noticeable speed reductions can occur in remote desert and mountain areas.

For the latest performance benchmarks, visit Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for Saudi Arabia or review Opensignal’s operator reports — both are refreshed regularly with real-world user measurements. Bear in mind that rankings shift month to month, so always note the date when referencing any specific figure.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Saudi Arabia?

Arranging a residential internet connection in Saudi Arabia as a newcomer is a manageable process, though foreign nationals will need to have their residency documentation sorted before applying. The steps below describe the typical experience for an expat setting up a fixed home connection.

1. Obtain your Iqama (residency permit). The vast majority of fixed-line providers require evidence of legal residency in the Kingdom. While certain providers may accept a valid passport and entry visa for short-term or prepaid offerings, a standard residential broadband contract almost always calls for an Iqama. Arrange this through your employer or sponsor before making a broadband application.
2. Check availability at your address. The leading internet service providers in Saudi Arabia publish coverage maps on their websites, allowing prospective customers to search by location and view detailed information about which service types — fibre, DSL, or mobile — are available in a given area. Consult these tools before settling on a provider.
3. Choose a provider and plan. Assess STC, Mobily, Zain, GO Telecom, and other options against criteria such as monthly price, speed tier, and contract length. Fibre broadband offers consistent high-speed performance with symmetrical upload and download rates, making it particularly well suited to households with several simultaneous users and devices. Many fibre plans carry unlimited data allowances, and fibre is inherently more resistant to interference than traditional DSL, yielding a more dependable connection.
4. Apply online or in a store. All three major operators support online applications through their websites and mobile apps. Alternatively, you can apply in person at a physical store or authorised dealer. You will generally be asked for your Iqama number, a copy of your passport, and your home address. Having a Saudi mobile number to hand is useful, as providers routinely send verification codes by SMS.
5. Schedule installation. Following approval, the provider will arrange a technician visit to install your router and any necessary cabling. Many providers offer bundled packages that incorporate TV and telephone services alongside broadband. Installation is typically scheduled within a few working days in urban areas.
6. Activate your service. Once the hardware is in place, activate your account through the provider’s app or website. Customer support in both Arabic and English is available around the clock from the major operators, and billing and usage can be monitored conveniently through the app.

If you are renting a property, your landlord may already have a broadband connection installed, or the building may have an arrangement with a specific provider. It is advisable to ask before signing up independently. A local Saudi bank account is not a strict requirement to begin service — many providers accept international payment cards — though a Saudi account simplifies ongoing direct debit billing.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Saudi Arabia?

Several practical options exist for maintaining connectivity while you wait for a permanent broadband connection to be established. For most new arrivals, the most convenient route is a prepaid SIM card with a mobile data plan.

Saudi Arabia’s three principal mobile operators — STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Mobily (Etihad Etisalat), and Zain — all sell prepaid SIM cards at airports, shopping centres, and dedicated retail outlets. Cards can be purchased on arrival at major international gateways, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. You will be required to show your passport to complete SIM registration, as anonymous use is not permitted under Saudi telecoms law.

Mobile networks in Saudi Arabia deliver an average download speed of around 199.44 Mbps with a latency of 25 ms, with reliable 4G and 5G coverage in the main cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca. This makes a prepaid data SIM a thoroughly capable interim solution for working from home or streaming entertainment while your fixed-line service is being set up.

Portable Wi-Fi routers (pocket routers) are also available to purchase or rent from all three major operators, enabling a mobile data connection to be shared across several devices simultaneously — particularly handy when moving in with family or colleagues. These compact devices can be set up instantly without any installation.

Co-working spaces and cafés in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities commonly provide public Wi-Fi for customers. As with any shared network, exercise caution and avoid accessing banking or other sensitive accounts without appropriate security precautions in place. Most large shopping malls and hotel lobbies also offer guest Wi-Fi access.

What does internet service typically cost in Saudi Arabia?

Internet pricing in Saudi Arabia is highly competitive by both regional and global measures. Saudi users spend an average of just 0.72% of their income on mobile telephony — a fraction of the worldwide average of approximately 4.7% — indicating that connectivity is genuinely accessible relative to local earnings.

As of 2025, residential fibre and 5G FWA broadband plans are generally available across the following price ranges (check provider websites for current figures, as the prices below are indicative and may change):

Unlimited internet plans from providers such as STC and Mobily generally do not impose strict data caps, though fair usage policies may apply. Installation charges and router costs vary by provider — some include complimentary installation as part of a promotional offer, while others levy a one-off activation fee. Using your own compatible modem and router is possible with some providers, but always confirm this before purchasing any equipment independently.

Mobily’s 5G FWA offering is structured around three speed-based tiers of 100 Mbps, 200 Mbps, and unrestricted. Zain and STC operate similarly tiered frameworks. For mobile data, prepaid bundles start from as little as SAR 15–30 for a short-term package, with monthly postpaid plans ranging from around SAR 60 to SAR 200 depending on the data allowance and speed tier. Always verify current figures directly with providers or via the CST regulator at cst.gov.sa.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Saudi Arabia?

Internet content in Saudi Arabia is subject to systematic filtering and censorship, and expats should arrive well informed on this topic. Authorities block a broad range of websites on grounds that they contain material deemed harmful, unlawful, contrary to Islamic principles, or otherwise objectionable. ISPs operating in the Kingdom are obliged to block all sites prohibited by the CST/CITC, with Article 38 of the Telecommunications Act prescribing fines of up to $1.33 million for non-compliance.

Blocked sites are catalogued on lists maintained by the Internet Services Unit: one covering “immoral” material — predominantly pornographic content or content supportive of LGBT+ rights — and additional lists issued by a security committee covering sites critical of the Saudi government. A 2021 report by the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) identified Saudi Arabia as having the world’s highest rate of consistent LGBT+ website blocking.

Regarding VoIP and video calling services: voice and video features on certain platforms have been subject to intermittent restrictions in the past, though the situation has evolved over time. Unlike the broadly open-access model that prevails across most of the EU — where VoIP services are largely unrestricted — Saudi Arabia has historically limited services perceived as directly competing with licensed telecoms operators. It is advisable to verify the current status of any apps you depend on for work or personal communication before assuming they will function as expected.

On VPNs: the legal status of VPN use in Saudi Arabia places expats in a nuanced position. VPN software itself is not explicitly prohibited, but deploying a VPN to reach blocked content or circumvent censorship measures is forbidden under Saudi law. Authorities draw a distinction between corporate VPN usage — connecting to international business systems — and deliberate attempts to bypass content restrictions. Legitimate business use of VPNs is widely practiced and generally accepted, but understanding the precise limits set by the Anti-Cyber Crime Law is essential, as violations can result in fines of up to SR 1 million, custodial sentences, or deportation.

According to Freedom House’s 2024 assessment, Saudi Arabia scores 24 out of 100 on internet freedom, placing it in the “Not Free” category. Expats are strongly encouraged to read the Anti-Cyber Crime Law carefully and to take legal advice if they have any doubt about the legality of specific online activities in the Kingdom.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia’s mobile market is shaped by three dominant telecommunications companies — STC, Mobily, and Zain — which have defined the competitive landscape across the Kingdom and continue to push innovation in data services, connectivity, and next-generation technology. Virgin Mobile Saudi Arabia also operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) on existing infrastructure, offering competitive prepaid alternatives to the main carriers.

Mobile infrastructure has advanced dramatically with the rollout of 5G, which reached more than 90% of the population by late 2025, placing Saudi Arabia among the global leaders for 5G population coverage. The Kingdom also maintains one of the highest rates of mobile subscriptions in the region, with a large and growing user base on both 4G and 5G networks.

Foreign nationals purchasing a SIM card in Saudi Arabia must present a valid passport. Mandatory registration is a legal requirement under Saudi telecoms law, and anonymous SIM use is prohibited. SIM cards are readily obtainable from operator stores, airport kiosks, supermarkets, and electronics retailers. All three major operators support eSIM activation for compatible devices — check whether your handset supports eSIM and contact your chosen provider to arrange digital activation, which can conveniently be done before you travel.

On international roaming: if you intend to use your home-country SIM upon arrival, roaming arrangements differ significantly depending on both your operator and country of origin. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) roaming has historically offered reasonable rates, but data roaming from most other regions tends to be costly. Purchasing a local prepaid SIM on arrival is typically the more economical choice for day-to-day use. Check your current provider’s Saudi Arabia roaming rates before you depart.

Postpaid SIM plans for residents generally require an Iqama, while prepaid or tourist SIMs require only a passport. Monthly postpaid plans offer better long-term value for established residents. For current plan pricing and eSIM activation guides, consult the official websites of STC, Mobily, and Zain KSA.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Saudi Arabia?

The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) — formerly known as the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) until its renaming in 2022 — is the government body responsible for overseeing all activities within the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Saudi Arabia. The CST occupies a central position in the Kingdom’s digital governance architecture, handling licensing, spectrum allocation, consumer protection, and content regulation.

All ISPs operating in Saudi Arabia function under licences issued by the CST, which governs the provision of broadband, mobile data, fixed-line, and satellite-based internet services in support of the Kingdom’s broader digital transformation objectives.

For expats, the CST is the primary reference point for identifying licensed providers, understanding consumer rights, verifying coverage in a specific area, and submitting a formal complaint if persistent service issues cannot be resolved directly with a provider. The regulator’s official website — cst.gov.sa — publishes regulatory guidance, consumer information, and a complaints portal. The CST’s customer care centre is also available as an escalation route for unresolved disputes with an ISP.

The Telecommunications Act has as one of its core aims the promotion of digital transformation across the Kingdom and the continual improvement of services within the ICT sector — particularly given the sector’s rapid and exponential growth in recent years. The regulatory landscape is therefore actively developing, and all newcomers are strongly advised to consult the CST website regularly for updates on rules governing service obligations, SIM registration requirements, and content compliance.

Frequently asked questions about internet access in Saudi Arabia

Do I need an Iqama to get home broadband in Saudi Arabia?

A full postpaid residential broadband contract will in almost all cases require you to produce your Iqama (residency permit) alongside your passport. If your Iqama is still being processed after your arrival, a prepaid mobile data SIM — registered using your passport — provides a workable interim solution until your residency documentation is finalised.

Which internet provider is best for expats in Saudi Arabia?

STC commands the largest network footprint in the Kingdom, making it a solid default option — particularly for expats based outside the main urban centres. Opensignal’s 2025 data indicates that Mobily delivers the most consistent quality in city environments, while Zain’s FWA service records the fastest average download speeds in the fixed wireless category. Use a comparison platform such as Giraffy KSA or visit each provider’s website directly to assess current promotions, as deals shift regularly.

Is fibre broadband widely available in Saudi Arabia?

Fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) services are accessible across the main cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Mecca, with STC and Mobily offering speeds of up to 1 Gbps (as of 2025). Coverage is patchier in smaller towns and rural locations, where 4G/5G fixed wireless broadband or satellite internet typically represents the best available option. Use your preferred provider’s online coverage checker to confirm what is available at your precise address.

Are VPNs legal in Saudi Arabia?

VPN software as such is not explicitly prohibited, but employing a VPN to reach content blocked under Saudi law is illegal and can attract serious penalties — including fines of up to SAR 1 million, imprisonment, or deportation. Corporate VPNs used for legitimate business communication are generally tolerated. Expats should study the Anti-Cyber Crime Law and seek professional legal advice if they are uncertain about any particular use case.

Is WhatsApp calling available in Saudi Arabia?

The position on VoIP services has shifted over time in Saudi Arabia. Although certain calling features on messaging platforms faced restrictions in the past, access to services such as WhatsApp calling has broadly improved. Individual features can still be intermittently affected, so it is sensible to test the applications you depend on after arriving in the Kingdom and to check for the most recent guidance from the CST or your operator.

How long does it take to get broadband set up after applying?

In the major cities, installation appointments are generally arranged within a few working days of a successful application. In areas with lower service density, the wait may be longer. Providers typically send an SMS confirmation once your installation slot is booked. Where a building already has fibre infrastructure in place, activation can sometimes be completed during the same technician visit.

Can I buy a SIM card at the airport in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. All three principal operators — STC, Mobily, and Zain — maintain retail counters at the major international airports, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. Passport presentation is required for SIM registration. Prepaid tourist SIMs bundled with data allowances are available immediately, providing an affordable and straightforward way to get online as soon as you land.

Where can I compare internet providers and check my rights as a consumer in Saudi Arabia?

The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) at cst.gov.sa is the official national telecoms regulator and the authoritative source for information on licensed providers, consumer rights, and complaint procedures. For independent speed performance comparisons, Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index and Opensignal’s operator reports are reliable resources that are updated regularly with real-world usage data.