eSIM Saudi Arabia
Best eSIM For Saudi Arabia: 9 Providers Ranked
Feb
Compare the best eSIM options, prepaid eSIM data plans, and providers like eSIM4, Saily, and Airalo for fast and reliable internet access in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca. Whether you’re visiting for Umrah, business, or tourism, we help you find the best eSIM for Saudi Arabia.
Written by Peter Moore – eSIM Content Writer
Our Verdict: We Recommend eSIM4
eSIM4 stands out as the best eSIM for Saudi Arabia for any traveler looking to stay connected. With plans starting from an incredibly low $2.98, it offers premium coverage on the Zain network, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading mobile providers. Whether you need a simple data allowance for a short business trip in Riyadh or a provider that offers unlimited data for performing Umrah in Mecca, eSIM4 delivers reliable 5G mobile data without the hassle of swapping a physical SIM card. It is perfect if this is your first new eSIM purchase or if you have used Airalo before but want a cheaper option.
Why We Chose eSIM4
- Unbeatable Value: Plans start at just $2.98 for 1GB.
- Top Connectivity: Uses the premium Zain network for 5G/4G coverage.
- Instant Setup: Install an eSIM and auto-connect on arrival with no store visits required.
- Full Features: 24/7 support and optional app for calls and SMS.
Quick Comparison: Best eSIMs for Saudi Arabia
We compared the top eSIM providers offering service in Saudi Arabia, including Saily, Airalo, and Nomad, to help you find the perfect match for your trip. Avoid expensive roaming charges with our top picks for a reliable Saudi eSIM and the best esim plans available.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | $2.98 | Best Overall Value |
| 2 | Saily | 4.6/5 | $4.49 | App Experience |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.5/5 | $5.00 | Flexible Plans |
| 4 | Nomad | 4.5/5 | $7.50 | High Data Allowance |
| 5 | Jetpac | 4.4/5 | $1.00 | Short Trips |
| 6 | aloSIM | 4.3/5 | $5.00 | Calls & Text |
| 7 | Roamless | 4.2/5 | $2.45 | Pay-As-You-Go |
| 8 | GigSky | 4.2/5 | $4.99 | Versatility |
| 9 | Holafly | 4.0/5 | $7.90 | Unlimited Data |
Choosing the Right eSIM Data Plan
Saudi Arabia offers a mix of ultra-modern cities and vast desert landscapes. Your data needs will depend on whether you’re sticking to urban centers like Riyadh or venturing out to AlUla. Don’t travel to Saudi Arabia without verifying coverage, and before you buy, consider these factors to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
| Factor | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Network Quality | Look for providers using Zain, STC, or Mobily to ensure a stable connection. | Zain and STC offer excellent 5G coverage in cities, which is crucial for navigation apps like Google Maps and ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber. |
| Data Needs | Determine if you need a fixed allowance or an esim with unlimited data. | Video calls to family back home and social media updates can consume data quickly. Unlimited plans are great for peace of mind during long stays. |
| Trip Duration | Match the plan validity (e.g., 7, 15, or 30 days) to your stay. | Don’t overpay for a 30-day plan if you’re only visiting for a week. Shorter duration plans can offer significant savings when you prepay. |
| Hotspot | Check if tethering is allowed on unlimited plans. | Essential if you need to create a Wi-Fi hotspot to connect laptops or share internet with travel companions. |
Top eSIM Providers for Saudi Arabia: Reviews
We reviewed the leading eSIM providers for Saudi Arabia based on price, coverage, and ease of use. Say goodbye to roaming fees and expensive airport SIM cards. Here are the detailed results of our analysis.
eSIM4
Best Overall Value
eSIM4 takes the top spot as the premier eSIM choice for any tourist traveling to Saudi Arabia in 2026. It combines premium connectivity with unbeatable prices. By partnering with Zain, one of the country’s top mobile networks, eSIM4 ensures you have blazing fast 5G speeds whether you’re near the Kingdom Centre in Riyadh or the Corniche in Jeddah. You can easily prepay and buy this Saudi Arabia eSIM online.
Coverage
Users benefit from the extensive reach of the Zain network. This ensures stable connections in major cities and reliable service in many rural provinces.
Data Plans
Flexibility is key with eSIM4. You can choose from budget-friendly 1GB options for light use, or robust 20GB plans for longer stays. For heavy data consumers, unlimited data packages are available.
Activation Process
The process is entirely digital. After purchase, you receive a QR code via email instantly. Scan it to install, and your plan will auto-connect the moment you arrive in Saudi Arabia.
Price
With discounted rates currently available, eSIM4 offers exceptional value, with plans starting as low as $2.98 (approx 11 SAR).
eSIM4 Pricing Plans
| Data / Type | Duration | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $8.10 $2.98 | SAVE 63% |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $13.50 $5.98 | SAVE 56% |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $18.00 $8.98 | SAVE 50% |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $27.00 $13.98 | SAVE 48% |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $45.90 $23.98 | SAVE 48% |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $75.60 $40.98 | SAVE 46% |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $22.50 $14.98 | SAVE 33% |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $36.90 $22.98 | SAVE 38% |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $53.10 $30.98 | SAVE 42% |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $63.00 $43.98 | SAVE 30% |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $102.60 $64.98 | SAVE 37% |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $178.20 $107.98 | SAVE 39% |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best price-to-data ratio
- Uses premium Zain network
- Instant QR delivery
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Device must be unlocked
- Voice calls require app usage
Saily
App Experience
Created by the NordVPN team, Saily is a reliable choice for travelers to Saudi Arabia who value a seamless app experience. With plans starting around $4.49, it’s competitive for shorter trips. Saily is known for its user-friendly app which helps you manage your esims and top up data incredibly simply while you’re on the go.
Coverage
Saily generally offers reliable internet access across Saudi Arabia on the mobile data network. While they don’t explicitly disclose every network partner, performance is consistent in major urban hubs.
Data Plans
Saily provides data-only plans ranging from 1GB for quick trips to 20GB for longer stays. It’s worth noting that they don’t offer truly unlimited data options.
Price
Pricing is reasonable, with the 1GB plan starting at approximately $4.49.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.49 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $8.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $13.99 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $23.99 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $38.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Backed by NordVPN team
- User-friendly app
- One-click activation
Cons
- No unlimited plans
- No phone number included
Airalo
Flexible Plans
Airalo is a favorite among frequent flyers and provides excellent coverage in Saudi Arabia through the Zain network. Airalo is a popular choice for Saudi Arabia ESIMs and flexible plans, making it easy to find one that fits your itinerary. While most local plans are data-only, they are reliable and support 5G speeds.
Coverage
Connecting via Zain, Airalo offers broad coverage in Saudi Arabia. Users can expect strong signals in major cities and religious sites.
Data Plans
Airalo offers plans ranging from 1GB to 25GB, plus an unlimited option for 10 days.
Price
Plans start at $5.00 for 1GB.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $5.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $11.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $27.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $35.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reliable Zain network coverage
- Excellent app interface
- Supports 5G
Cons
- Local plans are usually data-only
- No pay-as-you-go option
Nomad
High Data Allowance
Nomad is a great choice for travelers who consume a lot of data. Their plans go up to 50GB, which is perfect for heavy users looking for high speed. Partnering with Zain, they ensure 5G speeds in reliable coverage areas.
Coverage
Nomad leverages the Zain network for robust coverage, ensuring you stay connected in key destinations like Jeddah and Riyadh.
Data Plans
Nomad offers a wide range of plans, with a massive 50GB option for 30 days that’s ideal for power users.
Price
Starting at $7.50 for 1GB, Nomad is slightly pricier on the low end but offers good value for large data buckets.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $7.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
| 50 GB | 30 Days | $66.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High data allowance (up to 50GB)
- Supports 5G speeds
- User-friendly app
Cons
- No regional plan for Middle East including Saudi
- Plans are relatively expensive
Jetpac
Short Trips
Jetpac is an excellent choice for short visits to Saudi Arabia, offering an introductory 1GB plan for just $1.00. They also provide free lounge access at the airport if your flight is delayed, adding extra value to their service.
Data Plans
Jetpac offers data-only plans that range from a 1GB entry plan to larger options. They connect via Zain in Saudi Arabia.
Price
The $1.00 introductory offer for 1GB (4 days) makes it the cheapest way to test connectivity.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $11.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $17.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $31.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- $1 introductory offer
- Lounge access for flight delays
- Good 5G coverage (Zain)
Cons
- Limited number of local plans
- Data-only service
aloSIM
Calls & Text
aloSIM connects to the Zain network and stands out by offering calls and sms via the Hushed app. It’s a solid choice if you need a local phone number capability alongside your data in Saudi Arabia.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $5.00 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $8.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $11.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $35.00 |
Roamless
Pay As You Go
Roamless offers a unique pay-as-you-go model with data that never expires. You load your wallet with money and pay for what you use. They connect via Mobily in Saudi Arabia, offering a good alternative network.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 500 MB | FLEX | FREE |
| 1 GB | FLEX | $2.45 |
GigSky
Versatility
GigSky offers versatile plans including options for cruises and offshore connectivity. They offer a free 100MB trial, making them a low-risk option to test coverage and avoid data roaming charges in Saudi Arabia.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 100 MB | 1 Day | FREE |
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $19.99 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $32.99 |
Holafly
Unlimited Data
Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans for travelers who want worry-free connectivity. A Holafly eSIM works with Etihad, STC, and Zain to ensure coverage. Note that while you get an esim with unlimited data, hotspot sharing is limited to 500MB per day.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 1 Day | $7.90 |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $20.90 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $27.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $34.00 |
Our Verdict: The Best eSIM for Saudi Arabia
After thorough testing and comparison of 9 different providers, eSIM4 is our clear winner for Saudi Arabia travel in 2026.
The combination of rock-bottom pricing (starting at $2.98), premium Zain network access, and excellent customer service makes it the smartest choice. Whether you are traveling to Riyadh, Jeddah, or Mecca, use an eSIM to stay connected without overpaying. The ease of setup and reliable 5G speeds give it the edge over competitors like Saily and Airalo.
Get eSIM4 For Saudi Arabia →How Do I Know If My Phone Is Compatible?
Most modern smartphone models released in the last few years support eSIM technology. This includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer. Many also support dual SIM functionality.
To be sure, check your device settings for an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option, or consult our detailed compatibility guide below.
Check Compatibility List →Can I Make Phone Calls with My eSIM?
Most travel eSIMs for Saudi Arabia are data-only. You can still use standard internet-based calling apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype to keep in touch with family, provided they have the same app and an internet connection.
A Smarter Way to Call with Yabb
While standard apps are great for chatting with friends, they often fail when you need to call a hotel in Riyadh, book a restaurant in Jeddah, or contact a tour operator on a landline. Yabb solves this by allowing you to make high-quality phone calls to any mobile or landline number worldwide using your eSIM data. It works just like a regular phone call without the recipient needing an app, and it avoids the massive roaming fees charged by your home carrier. Standard data-only eSIMs do not support local calling.
- Standard Apps: Use WhatsApp for app-to-app calls (where allowed).
- Yabb Advantage: Call real phone numbers (hotels/restaurants) that don’t have apps.
- Zero Roaming: Avoid expensive per-minute voice charges from your home provider.
Can I Send Text Messages with My eSIM?
Need to send a quick text to a friend or confirm a booking? Yabb allows you to send and receive global SMS messages using your eSIM data.
Global Messaging
Unlike apps that require both parties to be online, Yabb lets you send real SMS texts to any mobile phone, ensuring your message gets through.
Key Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase credits only when needed.
- Two-Way: Receive replies directly within the app.
- Global Reach: Works across Saudi Arabia and worldwide.
How to Activate an eSIM in Saudi Arabia
Getting online in Saudi Arabia is straightforward. Follow these steps to activate the eSIM.
- Buy Online: Buy the plan from eSIM4 before your flight. If you are already traveling, you can still purchase online.
- Scan QR Code: You’ll receive a QR code via email. Go to settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and scan the qr code to install your esim. Follow the instruction in your email if you need to enter details manually. It is best to do this before departure.
- Connect: Upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) or King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), turn on the eSIM line and enable “Data Roaming”. You will automatically connect to the Zain network.
Essential Tips for Using eSIMs in Saudi Arabia
To ensure a smooth experience while traveling across the Kingdom, here are three critical factors to keep in mind regarding your eSIM usage.
Check Device Compatibility
Before buying a plan, verify that your smartphone is eSIM compatible and carrier-unlocked. Most modern devices support this technology, but it is always best to check before you fly.
Install WhatsApp
WhatsApp is the dominant messaging app in Saudi Arabia. Install it before you arrive to communicate easily with local businesses, tour guides, and new friends. If you need internet for messaging, ensure your plan is active.
Prioritize Wi-Fi for Heavy Tasks
While your eSIM keeps you connected on the go, reserve bandwidth-heavy activities for hotel or café Wi-Fi. Streaming high-definition video or backing up photos to the cloud should be done over a stable internet connection or wifi to preserve your mobile data for navigation using Google Maps. Note that data speeds may be slower in remote desert areas compared to major cities.
How We Ranked These eSIM Providers
While many reviews rely on simple speed tests that only reflect a single moment in time, our approach is built on rigorous industry analysis. Our team of telecommunications experts audits the technical specifications that average users might miss but definitely feel in real-world performance. We look under the hood to see how the connection is delivered, not just if it connects.
Our Technical Evaluation Criteria
- Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 Network Access: We analyze the backend agreements to see if the eSIM connects to premium Tier 1 networks (like Zain) with priority access, or if it is relegated to a congested Tier 2 roaming partner. This determines if your data slows down in crowded areas.
- Latency & Routing Stats: Speed isn’t everything; responsiveness is key. We evaluate the data routing paths (latency) to ensure your traffic isn’t being routed halfway around the world before reaching the internet, which causes lag in video calls and maps.
- Carrier Aggregation Support: We check if the eSIM profile supports carrier aggregation – a technology that allows your phone to connect to multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This technical feature, often missing in budget SIMs, is crucial for maintaining high speeds in dense urban environments.
- Fair Usage Policy (FUP) Analysis: We scrutinize the fine print of unlimited data plans to identify hidden throttling thresholds, ensuring our top picks offer genuine high-speed data that meets the demands of modern travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which eSIM is best for Saudi Arabia?
eSIM4 is our top recommendation for Saudi Arabia in 2026. It offers the best combination of low prices, reliable Zain coverage, and responsive support. It is the best way to buy the best eSIM for your trip.
Do I need a physical SIM card in Saudi Arabia?
No. If your phone supports eSIM, a digital plan is cheaper and more convenient. You avoid the hassle of finding a store and swapping tiny physical SIM cards at the airport. A virtual SIM is much easier to manage.
Can I get a refund if the eSIM doesn’t work?
Most providers offer a refund if technical issues prevent the eSIM from connecting, but policies vary. Check the terms before purchase.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
Yes. Your WhatsApp will continue to work with your original number. It simply uses the data in Saudi Arabia from your eSIM to send messages.
Does eSIM4 work in Mecca and Medina?
Yes. Because eSIM4 uses the Zain network, which has wide coverage across the Kingdom, it works excellently in holy sites including Mecca and Medina, as well as major cities like Riyadh. Always check if you are connected to a supported network for the best experience.
Will I be charged by my home country carrier?
To avoid fees from your home country carrier while abroad, ensure data roaming is turned off for your primary SIM card.
Is support available 24 hours a day?
Yes, providers like eSIM4 offer 24/7 customer support via email or chat to assist you at any time.
How can I make a payment?
Secure payment options including credit cards and PayPal are available online for all providers listed.
How fast is the internet speed?
In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, you can expect fast 5G speeds. In more rural desert areas, the cellular network typically switches to a stable 4G LTE signal.
Can I get a local phone number?
Most travel eSIMs are data-only. However, aloSIM offers a calling solution via the Hushed app if receiving calls and SMS is essential for you.
