Saudi Arabia – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Saudi Arabia, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Saudi Arabia’s international calling code is +966. To reach a Saudi number from outside the country, dial your international access code (usually 00 or +), then 966, followed by the local number — remembering to omit the leading zero from the area code or mobile prefix. For example, a Riyadh landline displayed locally as 011-XXX-XXXX becomes +966-11-XXX-XXXX when called from abroad.

Saudi fixed-line numbers follow a structure comprising the country code (+966), a two-digit area code, and a seven-digit subscriber number. Landlines are always tied to a regional area code, whereas mobile numbers do not correspond to any particular city or region.

The table below lists the area codes for major cities and regions where expats typically settle:

Under Saudi Arabia’s numbering plan, 011 covers Riyadh and the broader central region; 012 serves the Western region, encompassing Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, and Rabigh; 013 applies to the Eastern Province, including Dammam, Khobar, Qatif, Jubail, and Dhahran; and 014 covers Al-Madinah, Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Yanbu, Turaif, Skaka, and the Northern Borders Region.

You can identify a mobile number’s operator from its prefix: numbers beginning with 050 or 056 are STC lines, 054 belongs to Mobily, and 053 is assigned to Zain. Saudi Arabia runs on Arabia Standard Time (AST), which is UTC+3, and does not observe daylight saving time. The working week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as rest days — worth bearing in mind when timing international calls.

Who are the major landline providers in Saudi Arabia, and how can you contact them?

Saudi Telecom Company (STC) holds the distinction of being Saudi Arabia’s first provider of both fixed-line and mobile telephone services and continues to lead the market for landline connections nationwide. Fixed telephone numbers across the country are regionally assigned and fall primarily under STC’s management, with additional coverage from other licensed providers.

STC commands the broadest network footprint in the country, extending reliable connectivity even into remote areas, and delivers a wide portfolio of services covering fixed and mobile communications, broadband internet, television, and enterprise solutions. To enquire about or apply for a fixed-line connection, visit www.stc.com.sa or call their customer helpline at 900 from within Saudi Arabia.

Integrated Telecom Company (ITC), established in 2005 as a second licensed operator after STC, focuses on internet access, broadband, connectivity, and satellite services targeted primarily at business customers, residential consumers, and wholesale clients. ITC’s strengths lie in fixed-line and enterprise broadband solutions rather than consumer mobile services. Current service details are available at www.itc.com.sa.

Landline plan pricing and service conditions are subject to change at any time. Always confirm the latest tariffs and availability directly through each provider’s official website or by visiting a branch in person, and consult the national regulator — the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) — for consumer guidance or assistance resolving disputes.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Saudi Arabia, and how can you contact them?

Saudi Arabia’s mobile telecommunications sector is shaped by three principal carriers: STC, Mobily, and Zain. These operators have long dominated the kingdom’s market and continue to push forward with innovations in data services, network infrastructure, and emerging technologies to meet rising consumer demand.

As Saudi Arabia’s largest telecoms operator, STC is recognised for the depth and reliability of its network. It provides strong coverage in urban and peri-urban environments, and 5G service is already live in most of the country’s major cities.

Having entered the market in 2005, Mobily has grown into Saudi Arabia’s second-largest mobile carrier. The company offers a broad range of prepaid and postpaid tariffs designed for diverse budgets and usage habits, and has built a reputation for attractive pricing and frequent promotional deals.

Zain became the third player in the market when it launched in 2008 and has cultivated a devoted subscriber base in the years since. Its primary draw is high-performance data connectivity, making it a strong option for users who place a premium on fast, consistent internet access.

Beyond the three main operators, Saudi Arabia’s MVNO landscape includes Virgin Mobile (operating over Mobily’s network), Lebara (an internationally recognised MVNO also on Mobily’s infrastructure), and Friendi (a local MVNO running on STC’s network). These virtual operators lease capacity from the major carriers to serve niche audiences, often at lower price points — though their geographic reach is not as comprehensive as the primary networks.

Plan pricing changes frequently across all operators. Always verify the most up-to-date rates on each provider’s official website. As of 2025, entry-level prepaid packages start at roughly SAR 30 to SAR 50, covering a modest data allowance and local call minutes. For side-by-side comparisons, tools such as Giraffy KSA are a useful starting point.

How do I get a landline connected in Saudi Arabia?

New landline connections in Saudi Arabia are set up almost exclusively through STC, either via an in-branch visit or by submitting an application through the STC online portal. The process involves the same core documentation requirements regardless of whether you own the property or rent it, though homeowners with a line already linked to their address may find things proceed somewhat faster.

1. Check line availability: Before applying, confirm that your property is served by the fixed-line network. You can do this by visiting stc.com.sa or by calling 900 and providing your address details.
2. Gather required documents: You will generally need your Iqama (residency permit) or national ID card, proof of your residential address (such as a tenancy agreement or title deed), and your Absher account credentials — the Saudi government’s digital identity platform — for identity verification purposes.
3. Submit your application: Applications can be made through the STC website, the MySTC mobile app, or in person at an STC branch. Branches are widely distributed across major shopping centres and commercial districts throughout the country.
4. Pay any connection fee or deposit: A connection charge may be applicable depending on the line type and any bundled services you select. Check the current fee schedule at stc.com.sa or enquire directly at a branch, as figures are subject to change.
5. Schedule the installation: STC will arrange for a technician to connect or activate your line. Timelines vary, but residents in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam can generally expect installation to be completed within a few working days to two weeks.
6. Activate the line: Once your line is live, set up your account online or through the MySTC app to manage billing, monitor usage, and add optional services as required.

If you are renting, ask your landlord whether the property already has an active line — reactivating an existing connection is considerably faster than arranging a brand-new installation. Always confirm the exact documentation requirements and any applicable charges directly with STC or the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) before making your visit.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Saudi Arabia?

Picking up a mobile SIM in Saudi Arabia is a smooth, accessible experience for new arrivals and established residents alike. The process is designed to be welcoming to visitors, with multiple convenient points of purchase available both at the airport and across the country.

1. Arrive at the airport and pick up a SIM: The main international airports serving Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam all host counters operated by STC, Mobily, and Zain, where you can purchase a SIM immediately after clearing arrivals. This is by far the most convenient route for those who want connectivity from the moment they land.
2. Visit a provider store or authorised retailer: Official brand stores and authorised resellers are found throughout major shopping malls and commercial streets in cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Simply bring your passport and choose from the plans on offer.
3. Present your identity documents: Tourists purchasing a SIM will need to show a valid passport along with their tourist visa. Residents are required to produce their Iqama. Whichever route you use, make sure your identification is with you at the time of purchase.
4. Choose prepaid or postpaid: Both options are available. Newcomers who do not yet hold an Iqama are ordinarily restricted to prepaid plans. Postpaid contracts require an Iqama, proof of income such as a salary slip, and sometimes an upfront deposit.
5. Register and activate: Saudi telecoms regulations require every SIM to be registered against a named individual — anonymous SIMs are prohibited. In-store registration uses your passport or Iqama at the point of sale; online orders require you to upload a copy of your identity document through the operator’s website.
6. Order online (optional): All three operators operate online stores through which you can order a SIM for home delivery. This is a practical option once you have a confirmed address in the country to receive the delivery.

The requirement to register a SIM with personal identification is standard practice in many countries worldwide, including Germany and the UAE, so most newcomers will find it familiar. One distinction particular to Saudi Arabia is that postpaid contracts are generally not accessible until you have obtained an Iqama, which is why most expatriates begin with a prepaid SIM and transition to a contract plan once their residency status is formalised.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Saudi Arabia?

Both landline and postpaid mobile accounts in Saudi Arabia are billed on a monthly cycle. All three of the major operators have made significant investment in digital payment infrastructure, giving subscribers a variety of straightforward methods for settling their accounts.

• Provider apps and websites: The MySTC app, My Mobily app, and My Zain app each allow subscribers to view itemised bills, make payments by credit or debit card, and administer their accounts from a mobile device. Mobily in particular has broadened its digital payment ecosystem to include electronic wallets, in-app top-ups, and online account management.
• Online banking and SADAD: SADAD is Saudi Arabia’s national electronic bill-payment infrastructure, embedded within the internet banking platforms of virtually every Saudi bank. You can link your telecoms account to your bank and schedule regular payments or make individual transactions as needed — functioning in a similar way to direct debit arrangements in other markets.
• In-person at branches: Every major operator maintains retail locations in shopping malls and commercial areas across the country, where you can pay your bill by cash or card over the counter.
• ATMs and self-service kiosks: SADAD payment functionality is also available through many Saudi bank ATMs and dedicated self-service payment machines, making it possible to settle a telecoms bill without visiting a branch or using a smartphone.
• Prepaid top-up: Prepaid mobile balances can be replenished via the operator’s app, online, at retail outlets, or by purchasing physical top-up vouchers widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores. A prepaid line’s validity is extended for a further 90 days whenever the account holder makes a recharge, places a call, uses mobile data, or sends an SMS.

Failure to pay a postpaid bill on time can lead to service suspension. Restoration of a suspended account generally requires the full outstanding balance to be cleared first. Review your operator’s terms and conditions — published on their official websites — for the precise grace period and any reconnection charges that apply to your specific plan, as these differ between providers.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Saudi Arabia as a newcomer?

Network quality and coverage: Saudi Arabia ranks among the highest in the region for mobile penetration, with a large proportion of users connected to 4G and 5G networks. In the main expat centres — Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar — signal quality from all three operators is generally strong. Coverage along major roads and in populated areas is reliable, but signal can deteriorate or disappear entirely in remote desert or rural locations. If your role involves regular travel to outlying areas, STC’s network is the most dependable option.

5G availability: STC has achieved broad 5G coverage across urban and peri-urban areas, with service active in most major cities. Mobily is progressing with its own 5G rollout; while its footprint does not yet match STC’s in scale, performance in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam is considered strong. Before committing to a plan, review each operator’s coverage map on their respective website.

eSIM availability: The principal Saudi operators and a number of MVNOs now support eSIM technology alongside conventional physical SIM cards. STC was the country’s first provider to offer eSIM, launching the capability in 2021 — postpaid subscribers can activate an eSIM profile directly through the STC app. Mobily followed with eSIM support in early 2022, available to eligible prepaid and postpaid customers via the Mobily app and online portal. For new arrivals wanting immediate connectivity without an in-store visit, eSIM is a practical solution provided your handset is compatible — dial *#06# to check.

Number porting: Mobile number portability is supported across Saudi Arabia and regulated by the CST. If you want to retain your Saudi number when changing to a different operator, contact the new provider to initiate the transfer. The process normally takes between 24 and 72 hours; confirm the current timeline with the receiving operator, as this may differ from markets where same-day porting is the norm.

International roaming: All three major operators offer international roaming packages for travellers. Mobily, for instance, extends roaming coverage to approximately 80 countries worldwide. It is advisable to activate a roaming bundle before departing to avoid steep default per-minute or per-megabyte charges. Check your operator’s app or website for current roaming zones and applicable rates, as these are updated regularly.

VoIP and messaging apps: Applications such as WhatsApp and Telegram function normally in Saudi Arabia for messaging purposes. Voice and video calling via apps including WhatsApp and Skype is generally accessible, though the regulatory position on VoIP services can evolve — consult the CST’s official guidance at cst.gov.sa for the most current information.

Device compatibility: Saudi Arabia’s mobile networks are built on GSM-based standards. The networks collectively utilise 2 GSM bands, 1 UMTS band, 7 LTE bands, and 9 5G NR bands. Most contemporary unlocked handsets purchased in any global market will work without issue, but if you are bringing an older device or one locked to a specific region, verify band compatibility before you travel.

Keeping your foreign number: It is not possible to port a foreign mobile number into the Saudi network — the two systems operate independently. Your overseas number will continue to work as long as your foreign subscription remains active. Many expatriates take advantage of dual-SIM functionality — where the handset supports it — to keep both a Saudi local number and their home-country number in use simultaneously.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Saudi Arabia?

Transferring a foreign phone number into the Saudi mobile network is not possible — the systems are entirely separate. Your overseas number will stay active only for as long as your foreign subscription continues to be paid. A popular solution among expats is to use a dual-SIM handset, keeping both a Saudi number and a home-country number active at the same time.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Saudi Arabia?

For a straightforward prepaid SIM, a valid passport (plus tourist visa where relevant) is typically all that is required — a local address is not generally necessary for the initial purchase. That said, postpaid contracts and online deliveries do require a verified Saudi address. Residents who register using their Iqama will have their address tied to their national records through the Absher platform.

Can tourists buy a SIM card in Saudi Arabia without an Iqama?

Yes. Tourists purchasing a prepaid SIM need only present a valid passport and their tourist visa — the Iqama is not required. The Iqama (residency permit) is only needed when signing up for a postpaid contract, so visitors on short stays can obtain a prepaid SIM without difficulty.

Which mobile network has the best coverage for expats living outside major cities?

STC maintains the most extensive network infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, with coverage stretching to the most remote corners of the country. For those based or working outside main urban centres, STC is the most reliable choice. Mobily and Zain deliver solid performance within cities but can be inconsistent in rural and desert environments.

Is 5G available in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. All three main operators — STC, Mobily, and Zain — have operational 5G networks in major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Makkah, and Madinah. STC currently offers the widest 5G footprint across urban and semi-urban areas. For precise 5G availability in your specific location, consult each operator’s coverage map on their official website.

How do I register a SIM card in Saudi Arabia?

Every SIM card in Saudi Arabia must be linked to a specific named individual — unregistered SIMs are not permitted under national telecoms law. When purchasing in store, staff will complete the registration using your passport or Iqama at the time of sale. For SIMs ordered online, you will be prompted to upload a scan or photograph of your identity document as part of the registration process.

What is the CST and how does it protect telecom consumers?

The Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) is the body responsible for regulating telecommunications in Saudi Arabia. Its remit includes licensing operators, establishing consumer protection standards, overseeing the rules governing number portability, and dealing with complaints from the public about telecoms providers. If a dispute with your operator cannot be resolved directly, you can submit a formal complaint via the CST website.

Can I get an eSIM when I first arrive in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia’s main mobile operators and several MVNOs now offer eSIM alongside traditional physical SIM cards. Provided your device is eSIM-compatible and you have valid identification, you can activate an eSIM remotely or through the operator’s app — an appealing option for new arrivals who want to be connected straight away without needing to visit a physical store. It is worth confirming device compatibility before you travel.