SIM card and eSIM in Saudi Arabia: local number or data only

Some apps work with a foreign number, others need a Saudi number. Here is what each SIM type gives you, so you can choose before you travel.

Information only. Rules, permits and timings change, so confirm with official sources and your scholar before you travel. We do not sell, book or guarantee anything.

Two kinds of SIM

Local Saudi SIM or eSIM: gives you a Saudi phone number with calls and SMS. It must be registered with your original passport and Saudi visa, and fingerprints may be taken. Unregistered SIMs are reported to be switched off within 24 to 72 hours of first use.
Travel eSIM bought online before you leave: usually data only, with no Saudi number and no Saudi registration. It must be installed while you still have internet, so install it before you fly.

Why the number matters

Some apps send an SMS code to your phone number to register. A data only eSIM cannot receive local calls or SMS. Some apps accept foreign numbers and some do not, for example HungerStation is reported to exclude some foreign numbers. See our food delivery apps page. If you use a travel eSIM for data, keep your home SIM active in a dual SIM phone to receive codes from home.

Visitor packages from local operators

Prices and plans change. KSA Expats listed these in July 2026 (starting plans): STC Visitor 35 at about SAR 40 for 5GB and 1 hour of calls for 2 weeks. Mobily Visitor 30 at about SAR 35 for 5GB and 60 minutes for 14 days. Zain at about SAR 40 for 10GB and 60 minutes for 14 days, with SMS. Salam Mobile at about SAR 35 for 6GB and 60 minutes for 14 days, with SMS. Check the live offer before buying.

Where to buy

Telecom kiosks at the airport. A 2023 report places STC, Zain and Mobily kiosks in the Jeddah airport arrival hall. You can also buy at official telecom stores, authorised shops and some malls near your hotel. Use official counters only and keep the registration receipt. For STC, one report says activation needed a visit to a sales office.

Simple plan

Install a travel eSIM before you fly so you have data when you land, and save your e-visa and offline maps. If you need a Saudi number for apps or calls, register a local SIM at an official counter. For 7 to 10 days with moderate use, one source suggests 5 to 10GB.

Safety

Registration uses your passport details, so use only official counters and keep your receipt. Check the APN settings if the internet does not work after activating an eSIM.

Frequently asked

Do I need a Saudi SIM for Umrah?

No. A travel eSIM or roaming gives data. A Saudi SIM gives a local number for apps that need one.

Can a data only eSIM receive SMS codes?

Usually not. Keep your home SIM active for codes or register a local SIM.

What documents do I need for a Saudi SIM?

An original valid passport and your Saudi visa. Copies are not accepted.

Where can I buy a SIM at the airport?

Telecom kiosks at the airport, including STC, Zain and Mobily at Jeddah arrivals, reported in 2023.

Sources

Reviewed by the Makkah Madina Guide editorial team on 20 October 2026.