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How to Use a Prepaid eSIM in Saudi Arabia (2026 Guide)

10 min readBy Daniel Mercer, Lead eSIM Analyst
  • 1 network verified
  • 6 plans compared
  • Updated June 2026

Daniel Mercer

Lead eSIM Analyst

43 countries tested280 plans reviewed14 airports tested8 years in telecom

Previously at Analysys Mason covering APAC mobile markets (2016-2021)

How we test

Published July 2026 · Updated June 2026

Pre-Departure

How to prepare your eSIM for Saudi Arabia

Check your phone compatibility

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Choose the right plan for Saudi Arabia

The cheapest plan starts at $3.99 for 1GB. For a typical 7-day trip, a 5GB plan covers most travelers.

eSIM plan pricing for Saudi Arabia
PlanPriceBest For
1GB$3.99Day trips, light messaging
3GB$8.99Weekend trips, maps and messaging
5GB$13.49One-week trips, moderate use
10GB$22.99Two-week trips, streaming
20GB$37.49Extended stays, heavy data use

Compare all Saudi Arabia eSIM plans and pricing

Install at home over WiFi

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What to download before you go

  • Offline maps: download Saudi Arabia cities in Google Maps or Maps.me
  • Translation app: Google Translate with Saudi Arabia language pack downloaded offline
  • Currency converter: XE or Wise for SAR exchange rates
  • Provider app: download and log in to Nomad before departure

On Arrival

After landing at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED)

When to turn on your eSIM

Activate your eSIM after clearing customs at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED), before you leave the terminal. Do not enable it during a layover at a connecting airport. Most plans start counting from the first network connection, not from installation. Enabling during transit burns a full day of your plan.

Connecting to STC's network

  1. Open Settings on your phone
  2. Go to Cellular (iPhone) or Network & Internet (Android)
  3. Select your travel eSIM line
  4. Enable Data Roaming on that line only
  5. Wait 2-3 minutes for STC's 5G network to register

Expected speeds on STC: approximately 190 Mbps download.

Airport WiFi as backup

King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) offers reliable free WiFi. Use it as a backup to complete eSIM installation if you did not set up at home. Airport WiFi often requires a phone number to register, so installing at home is the safer option.

What if your eSIM does not connect

  1. Toggle Data Roaming off and back on
  2. Restart your phone
  3. Verify the travel eSIM is selected as your cellular data line
  4. Try manual network selection: choose STC
  5. For emergencies, dial 999/997

Configuration

Phone settings for Saudi Arabia data

Dual-SIM configuration

Keep your home SIM for calls and texts. Set the travel eSIM as your cellular data line. On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > select travel eSIM. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > set travel eSIM for mobile data. iMessage and FaceTime should stay on your home number.

Data roaming settings

Enable data roaming on the travel eSIM line only. Disable data roaming on your home SIM to prevent carrier charges. On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > select home SIM > Data Roaming OFF. On Android: Settings > Network > SIMs > home SIM > Roaming OFF.

APN configuration

Most eSIMs auto-configure APN settings for STC. Verify in Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Data Network. If auto-configuration fails, check your provider's email for manual APN values. Manual entry is rare but occasionally needed on older Android devices.

Troubleshooting

Saudi Arabia eSIM troubleshooting guide

VPN and internet restrictions

VPN access in Saudi Arabia is restricted. VPNs widely used but accessing morally objectionable content via VPN is illegal Some VPN protocols work, others are throttled or blocked. The situation changes periodically — what worked last month may not work today. Install your VPN app and test it before you travel. Saily, from the team behind NordVPN, bundles VPN protection with its eSIM plans — a practical option for travelers who want data and privacy under one account. Use VPN over cellular rather than public WiFi for better reliability. Your prepaid eSIM on 5G provides the stable connection a VPN needs to maintain its tunnel.

SIM registration and ID requirements

Passport and visa required; Absher app registration for residents With a prepaid eSIM, the provider handles registration remotely. You do not need to visit a counter or present your passport in person.

Speed and coverage in rural areas

STC provides the broadest coverage in Saudi Arabia, but speeds drop outside major cities. Urban areas average 190 Mbps. Rural areas may see 5-15 Mbps on LTE. 5G is available in select areas (widespread).

Common error messages

"eSIM not supported"
Your phone is carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier to unlock (24-72 hours).
"No service"
Data roaming is off on the travel eSIM line. Enable it in Settings.
"Plan expired"
The plan was activated too early (during a layover). Contact the provider for a replacement.
"Unable to activate"
eSIM profile slot is full. Delete unused profiles in Settings > Cellular. iPhones hold 8 profiles (2 active).

Full eSIM troubleshooting guide

Data Tips

Managing your data in Saudi Arabia

How much data you need

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Stretching your data in Saudi Arabia

  • Download offline maps before departure (saves 50-200 MB/day)
  • Use Saudi Arabia's good hotel and cafe WiFi for heavy downloads
  • Turn off background app refresh and auto-play videos
  • Enable Low Data Mode (iPhone) or Data Saver (Android)

Topping up mid-trip

If your plan runs out, buy additional data through the Nomad app. Top-ups apply instantly with no new QR code needed. Alternatively, switch to an unlimited daily plan starting at $5.78/day.

How to top up your eSIM mid-trip

Peak season data congestion

During Nov-Mar and Hajj season in Saudi Arabia, network congestion can reduce speeds in popular tourist areas. Cool season November-March; Hajj/Umrah seasons bring millions of religious tourists Consider upgrading one plan tier during peak months for a buffer.

Provider Setup

Step-by-step activation per provider for Saudi Arabia

Airalo

  1. Open the Airalo app or visit airalo.com. Search for "Saudi Arabia" in the destination field.
  2. Browse available plans. Fixed data starts at $3.99 for 1GB. Select a plan that covers your trip length.
  3. Complete checkout. Payment options include credit card, PayPal, and Alipay. The eSIM profile generates within 60 seconds.
  4. Go to "My eSIMs" in the Airalo app. Tap the Saudi Arabia plan and select "Install." The app opens your phone's eSIM settings automatically.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to add the eSIM. Label it "Saudi Arabia Data" for identification.
  6. After installation, leave the eSIM disabled. The plan timer starts when STC's network first registers the profile — keep it off until you land at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED).
  7. After landing: enable the eSIM under Settings > Cellular, turn on Data Roaming for that line, and verify STC appears in your carrier field within 60-90 seconds.
Time: 5-7 minutes from purchase to installed profileSupport: In-app live chat (average response: 4 minutes). Email: support@airalo.com.

connects to STC and Mobily's 5G/LTE network in Saudi Arabia (190 Mbps average). Airalo routes through STC for most Saudi Arabia plans.

Holafly

  1. Visit holafly.com or open the Holafly app. Select "Saudi Arabia" as your destination.
  2. Choose between unlimited data plans (throttled after daily fair-use) or fixed-data options. Unlimited plans do not support hotspot/tethering on most Saudi Arabia packages.
  3. Complete payment. Holafly sends the QR code and activation instructions to your email within minutes.
  4. Open your email on a separate device (laptop or tablet). On your phone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code. Scan the code from the email.
  5. The eSIM profile downloads in 5-15 seconds. Label it "Saudi Arabia Unlimited" or "Saudi Arabia Data."
  6. Disable the eSIM after installation. Enable it when you land at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED). STC registers the profile in 60-90 seconds.
  7. Verify: open your browser and load any page. If it renders, your Saudi Arabia data is active on STC's 5G/LTE network.
Time: 5-10 minutes (QR code arrives via email)Support: WhatsApp: +34 644 44 37 97 (avg response: 8 min). Email: help@holafly.com.

connects to STC and Mobily's 5G/LTE network in Saudi Arabia (190 Mbps average). Holafly's unlimited plans connect to STC with a daily fair-use threshold.

Saily

  1. Open the Saily app (by the makers of NordVPN). Select Saudi Arabia as your destination.
  2. Review fixed-data plans. Saily focuses on straightforward, single-country packages with hotspot included. Starting at $3.99 for 1GB.
  3. Complete purchase. The eSIM profile appears in the Saily app immediately.
  4. Tap "Install" in the app. Saily opens your phone's native eSIM setup flow. Follow the prompts to add the profile.
  5. Label the eSIM "Saudi Arabia Data." Set it as your data line under cellular settings.
  6. Keep the profile disabled until landing at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED). The plan timer begins on first network connection.
  7. After landing: enable the eSIM, turn on data roaming, and verify STC's 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds.
Time: 3-5 minutes (in-app installation, no QR email needed)Support: In-app support. Email: support@saily.com. Backed by NordVPN's 24/7 team.

connects to STC and Mobily's 5G/LTE network in Saudi Arabia (190 Mbps average). Saily's fixed-data plans include hotspot on STC's network.

Nomad

  1. Open the Nomad app or visit getnomad.app. Search for Saudi Arabia plans.
  2. Compare single-country and regional options. Nomad offers both fixed-data plans and regional multi-country eSIMs. For Saudi Arabia only, the single-country plan delivers better STC coverage.
  3. Complete checkout. The QR code generates in your account within minutes.
  4. Go to "My eSIMs" and tap "View QR Code." On your phone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code. Scan it from a second screen.
  5. The profile downloads in 5-15 seconds. Label it "Saudi Arabia Data."
  6. Disable the eSIM after installation. Enable on landing at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) — STC's 5G/LTE signal registers in 60-90 seconds.
  7. Verify connectivity by opening any webpage. Contact Nomad support via in-app ticket if activation fails.
Time: 5-8 minutes (QR code generated in-app)Support: In-app ticket system. Email: help@getnomad.app.

connects to STC and Mobily's 5G/LTE network in Saudi Arabia (190 Mbps average). Nomad single-country plans connect directly to STC.

Installation Methods

How to install: QR code scanning vs in-app setup for Saudi Arabia

QR Code Scan Method

  1. Purchase your Saudi Arabia eSIM from any provider (Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad). The QR code arrives via email or is displayed in your account dashboard.
  2. Display the QR code on a separate screen — laptop, tablet, or a printed copy. You cannot scan a QR code on the same phone you are installing the eSIM on.
  3. On your phone: iPhone — Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code. Samsung — Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Scan QR Code. Pixel — Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download SIM.
  4. Point your camera at the QR code. The eSIM profile downloads in 5-15 seconds over WiFi.
  5. Tap "Activate" or "Add" when prompted. Label the plan "Saudi Arabia Data."
  6. Disable the eSIM after installation. Enable it after landing at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED).

Pros:

  • Works with any eSIM provider — universal method across all platforms.
  • No app installation required — uses your phone's built-in Settings flow.
  • The QR code is a one-time-use credential: once scanned, the profile is on your device permanently (until you delete it).
  • Faster initial setup: scanning takes 10 seconds vs app download + account creation.

Cons:

  • Requires a second screen to display the QR code — cannot scan from the same device.
  • Requires WiFi or mobile data for the download.
  • If the scan fails, you need the SM-DP+ manual entry code from the confirmation email as a fallback.
  • QR codes are single-use for most providers — losing the email before scanning means contacting support.

Best for: Travelers installing at home before departure, users who prefer not to install additional apps, and anyone setting up a Saudi Arabia eSIM on a secondary phone or tablet.

Provider App Installation

  1. Download your provider's app: Airalo (iOS/Android), Holafly (iOS/Android), Saily (iOS/Android), or Nomad (iOS/Android).
  2. Create an account or sign in. Search for "Saudi Arabia" in the destination field.
  3. Select and purchase your plan. Plans start at $3.99 for 1GB.
  4. The app presents an "Install" button for your Saudi Arabia plan. Tap it. The app opens your phone's native eSIM settings and guides you through the process.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts. The app handles QR code scanning internally — no second screen needed.
  6. After installation, the app shows your plan status: data remaining, validity period, and connected carrier (STC in Saudi Arabia).

Pros:

  • No second screen needed — the app handles the QR scanning or direct provisioning internally.
  • Built-in plan management: monitor data usage, check validity, and view carrier connection status.
  • Easier reactivation: if you visit ${country.name} again, the app stores your purchase history.
  • Some apps (Airalo, Saily) support direct eSIM provisioning — no QR code needed at all.

Cons:

  • Requires downloading a 50-100 MB app before installation — uses storage and initial data.
  • Account creation adds 2-3 minutes to the process.
  • Each provider has a separate app — managing plans across Airalo, Holafly, and Saily means three apps.
  • App updates can temporarily break the installation flow on older OS versions.

Best for: First-time eSIM users who want guided setup, travelers who buy from the same provider regularly, and anyone who wants in-app data monitoring during their Saudi Arabia trip.

Recommendation: My recommendation for Saudi Arabia: use the provider app if it is your first eSIM. The guided installation catches common mistakes (wrong data line selected, data roaming left off, profile not labeled). For experienced users, the QR code method is 2 minutes faster and does not require an app download. Both methods connect to STC's 5G/LTE network at 190 Mbps average.

Timing

Should you set up your eSIM before or after landing in Saudi Arabia?

Pre-Departure Setup (Recommended)

The optimal window: 24 hours before departure. Your home WiFi handles the QR download. You have time to troubleshoot if the scan fails (use manual SM-DP+ entry as fallback). The Saudi Arabia profile sits dormant until you enable it at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED). STC registers in 60-90 seconds. No surprises, no scrambling, no dependency on airport infrastructure.

Pros:

  • Reliable WiFi at home — no captive portals or unstable airport networks.
  • No time pressure. If the QR code fails, you have hours to contact support.
  • Jet-lag-free setup. Configuring Settings after a 12-hour flight leads to mistakes.
  • Immediate data on landing: STC connects in 60-90 seconds, no WiFi search.
  • No SIM counter detour at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) — skip the 10-20 min queue and $10-25 for 5-15GB / 30 days tourist markup.
  • Plan timer does not start until STC registers the profile — no wasted days.

Cons:

  • Must remember to install before departure — not an option if you forget.
  • Plan validity begins on first network connection, not purchase date — but activating during a layover still burns a day.
  • If you change your travel dates after installation, the eSIM sits unused until you travel.

Choose when: Best for: all planned trips. Install 24-48 hours before departure.

On-Arrival Setup at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED)

Arrival installation works in theory but fails in practice for many travelers. The WiFi at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) handles eSIM downloads. Jet lag, language barriers on the WiFi login page, and Settings navigation in a loud terminal all increase error rates. Saudi Arabia requires passport registration for physical SIMs — eSIM avoids this, but only if you can complete the download.

Pros:

  • Plan timer starts immediately after first connection — no risk of accidental activation during layovers.
  • No advance planning needed — works for last-minute trips.
  • SIM counter at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) provides a physical backup option ($10-25 for 5-15GB / 30 days).

Cons:

  • Requires WiFi for QR scan.
  • Jet-lag mistakes: wrong data line, roaming left off, APN entry errors.
  • 5-15 minutes of setup time at the airport instead of immediate data.
  • SIM counter costs $10-25 for 5-15GB / 30 days with a 10-20 min queue — your only alternative if the eSIM download fails.
  • Physical SIM requires Passport and visa required — adds 15-30 minutes.

Choose when: Best for: last-minute trips where pre-departure setup was not possible.

Verdict: Home setup wins on every metric: reliability, speed, cost, and stress. The Saudi Arabia eSIM installs in 5 minutes at home and connects in 90 seconds at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED). On-arrival setup takes 10-20 minutes in a less favorable environment. Install at home.

Verify

Post-activation checklist for Saudi Arabia

eSIM verification checklist for Saudi Arabia
StepWhat to checkIf it fails
Check carrier name in status barYour status bar should display "STC" or "Mobily" within 60-90 seconds of enabling the eSIM. The 5G/LTE indicator confirms your connection type.If "No Service" or "Searching..." persists after 2 minutes: Settings > Cellular > Network Selection > turn off Automatic, wait 10 seconds, turn it back on. If STC does not appear, restart your phone.
Verify data line assignmentOpen Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. Confirm the Saudi Arabia eSIM is selected as the active data line. If your home SIM is selected, all data routes through your home carrier at roaming rates.Tap "Cellular Data" and select the Saudi Arabia eSIM. Disable "Allow Cellular Data Switching" to prevent automatic fallback to your home SIM when STC's signal dips briefly.
Confirm data roaming is enabledSettings > Cellular > [Saudi Arabia eSIM] > Data Roaming must be ON. Most travel eSIM plans route through roaming agreements — data roaming must be enabled for the travel line specifically.Toggle Data Roaming ON for the Saudi Arabia eSIM line only. Leave roaming OFF on your home SIM to prevent accidental charges.
Load a webpage to verify data flowOpen Safari or Chrome and load any webpage. If the page renders within 3 seconds, your Saudi Arabia eSIM is delivering data on STC's 5G/LTE network. Slow loads (10+ seconds) indicate APN misconfiguration.If the page does not load: check Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network for APN settings. If blank, contact your eSIM provider for the correct APN string for STC's network in Saudi Arabia.
Test messaging appsText messaging in WhatsApp, Telegram, and iMessage works over data. Voice and video calls are restricted in Saudi Arabia — enable your VPN before attempting WhatsApp or FaceTime calls.If calls do not connect, enable your VPN first. Saudi Arabia blocks VoIP at the network level. If the VPN does not connect, try a different VPN server location.
Verify emergency dialing capabilityEmergency calls to 999/997 work from any active SIM in Saudi Arabia, even without data. With eSIM data active, your phone's emergency SOS feature also shares your GPS location with responders.Emergency calls bypass SIM restrictions. If your eSIM has no data, the call still connects through any available network. Store 999/997 in your phone contacts as "Saudi Arabia Emergency."
Check remaining data balanceOpen your eSIM provider's app (Airalo, Holafly, Saily, or Nomad) and verify your remaining data and validity period. The plan timer started when STC first registered your profile.If the app shows zero data remaining immediately after activation, the plan may have been activated during a layover. Contact your provider's support for a replacement or top-up.

Data Tips

Save data on your Saudi Arabia eSIM: practical tips

Download offline maps before departure

Google Maps and Maps.me allow offline downloads for specific regions. Download Saudi Arabia's major cities before leaving WiFi. Offline maps use zero cellular data for navigation. A single city map is 50-200 MB — download at home, not on your eSIM.

Disable background app refresh

Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh (iPhone) or Settings > Battery > Background Usage Limits (Samsung). Background refresh consumes 200-500 MB per day without visible activity. Social media apps, news feeds, and email clients refresh constantly. Disable all except essential apps while on your Saudi Arabia eSIM.

Pause cloud sync and auto-backups

iCloud Photos, Google Photos, and cloud backup services upload images and videos over cellular data. A single day of vacation photos can consume 1-3 GB in background uploads. Pause cloud sync: iPhone — Settings > Photos > Cellular Data > toggle off. Android — Google Photos > Settings > Back up & sync > Use cellular data > off. Sync manually over WiFi at your hotel each evening.

Use WiFi when available

Saudi Arabia has good public WiFi. Free WiFi in malls, hotels, and many restaurants. Use hotel and cafe WiFi for data-heavy tasks: video calls, software updates, large downloads, and cloud sync. Reserve your eSIM data for on-the-go navigation and messaging.

Set video quality to low on streaming apps

Standard definition video uses about 700 MB per hour. HD uses 1.5-3 GB. If you stream on your Saudi Arabia eSIM, set Netflix, YouTube, and other apps to "Data Saver" or "Low" quality. Better approach: download episodes over WiFi before going out.

Monitor data usage in real time

iPhone: Settings > Cellular > scroll to usage stats for each app. Samsung: Settings > Connections > Data Usage > Mobile Data Usage. Check daily. Set a data warning at 80% of your plan limit: iPhone uses Screen Time limits; Samsung has a built-in data warning under Data Usage settings. Your eSIM provider's app also shows remaining data for your Saudi Arabia plan.

Plan for 7-day trips

The average trip to Saudi Arabia lasts 7 days. At 2.0GB per day for standard use (maps, messaging, email, light browsing), budget 14-18 GB total. A 1GB plan at $3.99 covers this comfortably.

Peak season data note: Nov-Mar

During Nov-Mar, STC's network carries heavier traffic in tourist areas. Network congestion increases retransmission overhead, meaning your phone uses 10-20% more data per webpage load. Budget a slightly larger plan during peak months.

Business

Enterprise eSIM deployment for Saudi Arabia travel

A prepaid eSIM for Saudi Arabia solves the corporate connectivity problem without procurement overhead. STC's 5G/LTE network delivers 190 Mbps average. Each device gets its own plan, installed before departure, active on landing. No SIM card logistics, no carrier registration at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED), no IT ticketing system involvement.

Multi-device management

Team deployment checklist for Saudi Arabia: (1) Confirm each phone is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-capable. (2) Purchase one plan per device. (3) Distribute QR codes via secure internal channel (not group chat). (4) Each traveler installs and labels their profile before departure. (5) IT verifies MDM compatibility if phones are managed. Per-person cost from $3.99 for 1GB. Total setup time for 5 devices: under 30 minutes.

VPN and security

Saudi Arabia blocks VoIP at the carrier level. A corporate VPN is mandatory for video conferencing and voice calls. Pre-departure: install VPN, set eSIM as data line, test video call quality. Post-arrival: enable eSIM at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED), activate VPN, verify corporate app access. STC's 5G/LTE network at 190 Mbps average supports VPN-tunneled video calls without buffering.

Expense tracking

Submit the eSIM provider receipt as a travel expense. The confirmation includes: provider, Saudi Arabia, plan tier, price in USD, and purchase timestamp. No ambiguity, no usage-based billing, no multi-page carrier invoice to decipher. For recurring Saudi Arabia trips, set up the purchase on a corporate card to automate expense categorization.

Emergency protocol

Saudi Arabia emergency protocol: dial 999/997 for police, fire, or medical. This call connects through any available network. Your eSIM data on STC enables additional capabilities: GPS location sharing, corporate security app access, embassy contact lookup, and real-time translation for language barriers. Pre-load your company's emergency contact card on your lock screen.

Transfer

Transfer your Saudi Arabia eSIM to a new phone

If you need to move your Saudi Arabia eSIM to a different phone — due to a phone replacement, upgrade, or device failure — the process depends on your device and provider. Some transfers work directly between phones. Others require contacting your provider for a new QR code. The eSIM profile on STC's 5G/LTE network transfers with your remaining data and validity intact.

iPhone to iPhone

iPhone to iPhone (iOS 17+): Settings > Cellular > tap the Saudi Arabia eSIM > Transfer to Nearby iPhone. Both phones must be within Bluetooth range, signed into the same Apple ID, and running iOS 17 or later. The transfer takes 2-5 minutes. Your STC connection resumes on the new device within 60 seconds. Quick Start during initial setup also offers eSIM transfer as part of the migration flow.

Android transfer

Samsung to Samsung or Pixel to Pixel: most Android manufacturers do not support direct eSIM transfer between devices. You need a new QR code from your eSIM provider. Contact Airalo (in-app chat, 4 min avg), Holafly (WhatsApp +34 644 44 37 97), or Saily (email support) and request a profile reissue for your Saudi Arabia plan. The provider deactivates the old profile and issues a new QR code for the new device. Your remaining data and validity transfer to the new profile.

Cross-platform

iPhone to Android or Android to iPhone: cross-platform eSIM transfer requires provider intervention. Contact your provider's support, explain the device change, and request a new QR code. The Saudi Arabia plan (remaining data and validity on STC's 5G/LTE network) transfers to the new profile. Install the new QR code on the replacement device, configure the data line, and enable roaming. STC registers in 60-90 seconds.

Warning: Do not delete the eSIM profile from your old device before confirming the transfer or receiving a new QR code. Deletion without a backup code may permanently deactivate the profile. Contact your provider first, complete the transfer process, and only then remove the old profile.

After Your Trip

After your Saudi Arabia trip: eSIM cleanup

  1. Disable the Saudi Arabia eSIM immediately: Settings > Cellular > [Saudi Arabia Data] > turn off "Turn On This Line."
  2. Re-enable your home SIM as the primary data line: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > select your home SIM.
  3. Turn off data roaming on all lines: Settings > Cellular > each line > Data Roaming > Off.
  4. Check your Saudi Arabia data usage in your provider app — note remaining balance for records or potential refund.
  5. Decide whether to keep or delete the Saudi Arabia eSIM profile (see guidance below).

If you plan to visit Saudi Arabia again within 6 months, keep the eSIM profile on your phone. It occupies zero storage and does not affect performance. You can purchase a new plan and apply it to the existing profile without re-scanning a QR code. If the trip was a one-time visit, delete the profile: Settings > Cellular > [Saudi Arabia eSIM] > Remove Cellular Plan. This frees an eSIM slot for future destinations. iPhones hold up to 8 profiles.

Quick Answers

Common questions about eSIM in Saudi Arabia

FAQ

Saudi Arabia prepaid eSIM: your questions answered

When should I activate my eSIM for Saudi Arabia?

Activate your eSIM after you land and clear customs at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED). Do not enable it during a layover because most plans start counting from the first network connection. Keep the eSIM toggled off until you reach Saudi Arabia.

Does my eSIM work at King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED)?

Yes. STC's network covers King Khalid (RUH) / King Abdulaziz (JED) and surrounding areas. After clearing customs, open Settings, select your travel eSIM, and enable data roaming. Your phone connects to STC within 2-3 minutes.

How much data do I need for 7 days in Saudi Arabia?

Most travelers use 500 MB to 1.5 GB per day for maps, messaging, and light browsing. For a 7-day trip, a 5GB plan covers typical usage. Heavy streaming or video calls require more. Plans start at $3.99 for 1GB.

Can I use WhatsApp and FaceTime with my eSIM in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. WhatsApp, FaceTime, and other data-based messaging apps work on all eSIM data plans in Saudi Arabia. Some VoIP services may be restricted. A VPN installed before departure resolves this.

What if my eSIM stops working during my trip in Saudi Arabia?

Toggle data roaming off and back on. Restart your phone. Verify the travel eSIM is selected as your cellular data line in Settings. If the issue persists, try manual network selection and choose STC. For emergencies, dial 999/997.

Can I keep my home phone number while using eSIM in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. With dual-SIM, your home SIM handles calls and texts while the travel eSIM handles data on STC's network. Both lines stay active simultaneously. Set the travel eSIM as your cellular data line only.

Is WiFi reliable enough in Saudi Arabia to skip an eSIM?

WiFi in Saudi Arabia is good in hotels and cafes, but relying on WiFi alone leaves you without navigation, ride-share apps, and emergency access between hotspots. A prepaid eSIM keeps you connected everywhere, with WiFi as a data-saving supplement.

Do I need to register my eSIM in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia requires SIM registration for physical SIM cards. Passport and visa required; Absher app registration for residents eSIM providers handle registration on your behalf, so you do not need to visit a counter or provide ID in person.

What is the best eSIM for Saudi Arabia?

Dual SIM setup for Saudi Arabia (keep your home number): Step 1: Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM). Step 2: Add Nomad's travel eSIM by scanning the QR code. 1GB costs $3.99. Step 3: ...

How much data do I need for Saudi Arabia?

Dual SIM setup for Saudi Arabia (keep your home number): Step 1: Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM). Step 2: Add Nomad's travel eSIM by scanning the QR code. 1GB costs $3.99. Step 3: ...

Is eSIM cheaper than airport SIM in Saudi Arabia?

Dual SIM setup for Saudi Arabia (keep your home number): Step 1: Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM). Step 2: Add Nomad's travel eSIM by scanning the QR code. 1GB costs $3.99. Step 3: ...

Can I use eSIM on iPhone in Saudi Arabia?

Dual SIM setup for Saudi Arabia (keep your home number): Step 1: Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM). Step 2: Add Nomad's travel eSIM by scanning the QR code. 1GB costs $3.99. Step 3: ...

How to set up dual SIM for Saudi Arabia travel?

Dual SIM setup for Saudi Arabia (keep your home number): Step 1: Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM). Step 2: Add Nomad's travel eSIM by scanning the QR code. 1GB costs $3.99. Step 3: ...

Related guides

Compare Saudi Arabia eSIM plans

Provider pricing and network analysis

eSIM setup for Saudi Arabia

Device installation and APN settings

Compatible devices

Full device compatibility list

General activation guide

Step-by-step eSIM activation

Dual-SIM setup

Use both SIMs simultaneously

More Middle East destinations

eSIM plans across the region

Nearby destinations

Arrive in Saudi Arabia with data already active. No queue, no counter.

Nomad: from $1.87/GB on STC. Activates the moment you land.

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