Saudi Arabia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, has its own mobile network system that affects connectivity for travelers. This guide will explore the specifics of roaming charges in Saudi Arabia, providing you with the necessary information to manage your mobile usage during your visit.

Are There Roaming Charges in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, roaming charges do indeed apply in Saudi Arabia. When you use your home network's services in Saudi Arabia, you're effectively "roaming" on a foreign network, which typically incurs additional fees. These charges can vary significantly depending on your home network provider and any international plans you may have. Remember that charges can add up quickly for activities like making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data. To avoid high roaming fees, consider using a Global eSIM, which offers a more affordable and convenient way to stay connected during your visit.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Saudi Arabia?

Roaming charges in Saudi Arabia typically apply as soon as your device connects to a Saudi mobile network. This connection happens automatically upon arrival unless you've disabled data roaming on your device. Charges can accrue for various activities, including making or receiving calls, sending or receiving text messages, and using mobile data for internet access. It's important to note that even passive activities like receiving voicemails or automatic app updates can trigger roaming charges if your device is connected to a Saudi network.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Saudi Arabia

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information. 

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Saudi Arabia:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Telstra (Australia): [4]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Orange (France): [5]

Orange Holiday Saudi Arabia package limited to 14 days for €25.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [6]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [7]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €2 per minute

• Receiving a call: €1 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [8]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

T-Mobile (USA): [9]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

These figures give you a general idea of what to expect, but remember, they're approximate and can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Saudi Arabia

To avoid roaming charges while in Saudi Arabia, follow these steps:

• Disable data roaming in your phone's settings before arriving in Saudi Arabia.

• Connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible for internet access.

• Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi for communication.

• Download offline maps and travel guides before your trip.

• Investigate eSIM options, which can offer more flexible and cost-effective data plans.

You can also check our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more tips.

Roamless eSIM for Saudi Arabia

A travel eSIM like Roamless offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for travelers to Saudi Arabia:

• No Speed Throttling: Experience full-speed data connectivity without artificial slowdowns.

• Pay-as-you-go Flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use, avoiding wastage.

• Non-expiring Funds: Your credit remains valid for future trips, eliminating the pressure to use it all at once.

• Multi-country Compatibility: Use the same eSIM across multiple countries without switching plans.

• Local Network Speeds: Connect at the same speeds as local users, ensuring a smooth online experience.

• Easy Activation: Set up your eSIM before leaving home, ensuring immediate connectivity upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

• Cost-effective: Often more affordable than traditional roaming or local SIM options for short-term visitors.

Visit our eSIM Saudi Arabia page or read our best eSIM for Saudi Arabia article before planning your travel. By using these features, Roamless eSIM offers a simple and cost-effective way to stay connected in Saudi Arabia, letting you focus on exploring the country instead of worrying about excessive roaming charges or the inconvenience of switching SIM cards.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/saudiarabia

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/global-roaming

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[5] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/saudi-arabia

[6] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Arabia%20Saud%C3%AD

[7] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[8] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[9] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass