Does WhatsApp Work in Saudi Arabia?

For millions of Muslims traveling for business or tourism or Umrah or Hajj, staying connected with family and friends is essential. Whether you’re sharing moments from Masjid al-Haram, sending voice notes from Madinah, or coordinating with your group, WhatsApp is often the first choice for communication.

If you’re planning your Umrah package 2025, it’s also important to know the latest updates about messaging and calling apps in Saudi Arabia so you can stay connected throughout your pilgrimage.

Current Status: What Works and What Doesn’t

As of October 2025, here’s exactly what you can expect with WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia:

What You CAN Do on WhatsApp

WhatsApp messaging functions work flawlessly across Saudi Arabia:

• Text messages – Instant delivery to anyone worldwide
• Voice notes – Perfect for sharing your experiences from Makkah
• Photos and videos – Share your first view of the Kaaba or moments from Madinah
• Group chats – Coordinate with your Umrah group or family back home
• Location sharing – Help family members find you in crowded areas
• Document sharing – Send booking confirmations, permits, or travel documents
• Status updates – Keep everyone updated about your journey

What You CANNOT Do on WhatsApp

Unfortunately, real-time calling features remain restricted:

• Voice calls – Blocked for most users over mobile data and Wi-Fi
• Video calls – Not accessible through standard connections

These restrictions also apply to other popular VoIP apps including Facebook Messenger calls, Telegram voice calls, and Snapchat video calls.

Important context: Saudi Arabia isn’t alone in this policy. Qatar, UAE, and Egypt also restrict WhatsApp voice and video calls, making this a regional telecommunications approach rather than something unique to the Kingdom.

February 2025 Update: What Actually Happened?

In February 2025, something unexpected occurred that got pilgrims and residents talking. Many users across Saudi Arabia suddenly discovered their WhatsApp voice and video calls were working after years of restrictions.

Technology expert Abdullah Al Subaie suggested this temporary activation might align with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance telecommunications and digital infrastructure under Vision 2030. Social media lit up with reports from cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah.

However, the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CSTC) never officially confirmed whether this was:

• A permanent policy change
• A technical test of new infrastructure
• An unintended system glitch

By March 2025, most users reported the calling features had stopped working again. As of October 2025, WhatsApp calls remain officially restricted for the majority of users, though some report occasional brief windows of connectivity.

What this means for you: Don’t rely on WhatsApp calls working during your trip. Always have backup calling apps installed before departure.

Why WhatsApp Calls Are Restricted: Understanding the Policy

You might wonder why messaging works but calling doesn’t. The reasons involve a combination of regulatory, economic, and security factors:

Regulatory Control

The Saudi government requires all VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service providers to obtain proper licensing and comply with local telecommunications regulations. WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, hasn’t secured the necessary approvals for voice services in Saudi Arabia.

Telecom Revenue Protection

Saudi Arabia’s major telecom companies—STC, Mobily, and Zain—rely partially on traditional phone call revenue. Unrestricted internet calling could significantly impact their business models, which fund the country’s telecommunications infrastructure development.

Security and Monitoring Concerns

WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption, making it impossible for authorities to monitor communications even with legal warrants. This raises national security concerns, particularly regarding potential terrorist activities or criminal operations.

Despite these calling restrictions, WhatsApp remains incredibly useful for pilgrims. You can still send unlimited voice notes (which many find just as convenient), share photos from your Tawaf, and coordinate with your group through text messages.

Government-Approved Calling Apps: Your Best Alternatives

The good news? Several excellent calling apps work perfectly in Saudi Arabia with official government approval. Here are your most reliable options:

Pro Tip: Download and test at least TWO of these apps with your family members before departing. This ensures everyone knows how to use them and you have a backup if one app experiences temporary issues.

Getting Connected: Saudi SIM Cards & Data Plans

To use WhatsApp and communication apps smoothly during your pilgrimage, you’ll need reliable mobile data. Here’s your complete guide to getting connected in Saudi Arabia.

The Three Major Telecom Providers

STC (Saudi Telecom Company) – Best Overall Coverage

STC offers the most extensive network coverage and fastest speeds, particularly important in Makkah, Madinah, and around the Haram areas where millions gather.

Tourist Packages (2025 Pricing):

• Visitor 35: 5 GB data + 1 hour flex minutes for 2 weeks = 40.25 SAR ($11 USD)
• Visitor 60: 23 GB data + 2 hours flex minutes for 2 weeks = 70 SAR ($19 USD)
• Visitor 73: 25 GB data + 3 hours flex minutes for 3 weeks = 85 SAR ($23 USD)

Why choose STC: Best signal strength inside and around the Haram, most reliable 5G coverage in major pilgrimage sites

Mobily – Most Affordable Option

Mobily provides excellent value for short-term visitors with competitive pricing and good coverage in major cities.

Tourist Packages (2025 Pricing):

• Visitors 30: 5 GB + 60 minutes for 14 days = 34.5 SAR ($9 USD)
• Visitors 50: 20 GB + 120 minutes for 14 days = 57.50 SAR ($15 USD)
• Visitors 150: 40 GB + 600 minutes + unlimited social media for 30 days = 173 SAR ($46 USD)

Why choose Mobily: Budget-friendly packages, sufficient coverage for most pilgrims, good customer service

Zain KSA – Best for Data-Heavy Users

Zain offers the fastest 5G network in many areas and generous data allowances, perfect if you plan to share lots of photos and videos.

Visitor Plans (2025 Pricing):

• Visitor 40: 7 GB + 60 minutes for 2 weeks = 40 SAR ($11 USD)
• Visitor 120: 55 GB + 350 minutes for 4 weeks = 120 SAR ($32 USD)

Why choose Zain: Fastest speeds for uploading photos and videos, excellent for social media sharing

Where to Purchase Your SIM Card

At the Airport (Most Convenient):

SIM card counters from all three major providers operate in the arrivals halls of:

• King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah)
• Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (Madinah)
• King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh)
• King Fahd International Airport (Dammam)

Many airport counters operate 24/7, meaning you can get connected immediately upon arrival regardless of your flight time.

What You’ll Need:

• Valid passport (mandatory for registration)
• Your visa information (how to apply Umrah visa from Pakistan)
• The actual phone you’ll use (for immediate activation)

In the City:

• Official telecom retail outlets near major hotels
• Shopping malls in Makkah and Madinah
• Some hotels offer prepaid SIM sales at reception

Important: Tourist SIM cards start from 30 SAR ($8 USD) at official operator stores, with Umrah-specific packages beginning at 34.50 SAR ($9.20 USD). Airport prices are the same as city stores—you won’t pay a premium for airport convenience.

The Modern Alternative: Travel eSIMs

If you prefer not to swap physical SIM cards or want to keep your home number active simultaneously, eSIMs offer incredible convenience.

Popular eSIM Providers for Saudi Arabia:

• Airalo – Plans start at £4.50 for 7 days with 1 GB data, up to £30 for 10 days unlimited data.

• Holafly – Offers unlimited data eSIMs as low as $3.35 per day.

• Nomad – Flexible packages from $5 for 1 GB to $28 for 10 GB.

• Jetpac – Budget-friendly options with bonus perks.

eSIM Advantages:

• Activate before your flight departs
• Keep your home number active for important calls
• No physical SIM card to swap or potentially lose
• Instant activation when you land
• Perfect for dual-SIM phones

How to Check eSIM Compatibility:

• iPhone XS/XR and newer support eSIM
• Most flagship Android phones from 2020 onwards
• Check your phone’s settings under “Mobile Data” or “Cellular”

Most major Saudi providers including STC, Mobily, and Zain now also offer eSIM activation for visitors, though the process can be more complex than using international eSIM services.

VPN Usage: Legal Considerations You Must Know

Some travelers consider using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to access WhatsApp calls by masking their location. However, this approach comes with important legal considerations.

The Legal Landscape

What’s technically legal:

• VPNs for legitimate business purposes
• VPNs for accessing international banking
• VPNs for corporate security requirements

What’s legally questionable:

• Using VPNs specifically to bypass government restrictions
• Accessing blocked content through VPN services
• Using VPNs to circumvent telecommunications regulations

The Reality

While having a VPN installed isn’t illegal, using it to bypass content restrictions may violate Saudi Arabia’s anti-cybercrime laws. Authorities have restricted VPN access during sensitive periods, and there have been reports of VPN services being blocked or throttled.

Potential consequences:

• Service disruption and connectivity issues
• Possible violation of telecommunications regulations
• Risk of losing internet access if detected

Our recommendation: Use government-approved calling apps first. They’re legal, reliable, and designed specifically for the Saudi market. The small cost of a BOTIM subscription (around 6 SAR monthly) is worth the peace of mind and consistent service quality.

If you absolutely must use a VPN for legitimate business reasons, consult with your company’s legal team about compliance with Saudi regulations.

Essential Tips for Seamless Communication During Umrah

Before Departure

Download Key Apps (2 weeks before):

• Calling: BOTIM or IMO (test with family beforehand)
• Navigation: Google Maps (download offline maps for Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah)
• Essential: Nusuk, Haramain, Google Translate (offline Arabic pack)

Optimize WhatsApp: Settings → Data Usage → Disable auto-download for photos/videos/documents (saves 50-70% data)

Upon Arrival

Get SIM/eSIM at airport immediately (don’t wait for hotel)
Message family with safe arrival confirmation and hotel details
Test BOTIM/IMO with a quick call to ensure it works

During Your Stay

Save Data:

• Use hotel/mall Wi-Fi for uploads, video calls, and backups
• Disable background app refresh for unused apps
• Compress videos before sending (saves 60-70% data)
• Upload photos in batches on Wi-Fi, not mobile data

Group Coordination:

• Create WhatsApp group for travel party
• Share live locations when splitting up in crowds
• Use voice notes instead of typing while walking
• Designate meeting point (hotel lobby) if separated
• Everyone saves tour leader’s number

Pro Tip: Use WhatsApp’s “Low Data Usage” mode (Settings → Data and Storage Usage → Call Settings) for better call quality on limited data.

Timeline: WhatsApp Restrictions in Saudi Arabia

Understanding the history helps contextualize the current situation:

2017: Saudi Arabia officially announces VoIP calling restrictions to control unlicensed telecommunications services.

2018-2023: Restrictions remain firmly in place. Approved alternatives like BOTIM and IMO gain popularity among residents and visitors.

2024: Status unchanged. Pilgrims and travelers continue using approved calling apps successfully.

February 2025: Unexpected temporary activation of WhatsApp calling features reported across the Kingdom. Technology experts suggest potential alignment with Vision 2030 digital infrastructure goals.

March 2025: Calling features stop working for most users again without official explanation.

October 2025 (Current): WhatsApp messaging works perfectly, but calls remain officially restricted for the majority of users. Government-approved alternatives continue operating normally.

Looking Forward: The February 2025 incident suggests Saudi Arabia may be testing infrastructure for potential future policy changes. However, no official timeline or confirmation has been announced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use WhatsApp in Makkah and Madinah?

Yes, WhatsApp messaging, voice notes, and photo sharing work perfectly in Makkah, Madinah, and throughout Saudi Arabia. Only voice and video calling features are restricted.

Does FaceTime work in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, FaceTime works reliably in Saudi Arabia for both voice and video calls, making it an excellent option for Apple device users.

What’s the best calling app for Umrah pilgrims?

For free calling, IMO is excellent. For premium features and most reliable quality, BOTIM (around 6 SAR monthly) is the most popular choice among residents and regular visitors.

How much does a Saudi SIM card cost for tourists?

Tourist SIM cards start from 30-40 SAR ($8-11 USD) depending on the provider and data package. Most pilgrims find packages between 40-70 SAR sufficient for a 2-week stay.

Can I keep my home number active while in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, if you use an eSIM from services like Airalo or Holafly, you can keep your home SIM active simultaneously. Alternatively, dual-SIM phones allow both numbers to work together.

Do I need a VPN to make WhatsApp calls?

We don’t recommend VPNs due to legal uncertainties. Government-approved apps like BOTIM, IMO, and FaceTime provide legal, reliable calling alternatives.

Will WhatsApp calls work on hotel Wi-Fi?

Occasionally some users report success on certain hotel networks, but this is inconsistent and unreliable. Don’t depend on it—use approved calling apps instead.

How do I activate an eSIM for Saudi Arabia?

Purchase from providers like Airalo or Holafly through their apps, select your Saudi Arabia data plan, and scan the QR code they provide. Activation typically takes just minutes.

Final Thoughts

So, does WhatsApp work in Saudi Arabia in 2025? Yes, for messaging, voice notes, photos, and videos.

For voice and video calls, rely on government-approved apps like BOTIM, IMO, or FaceTime. Thousands of pilgrims successfully stay connected every day using these tools.

And don’t forget to send your Umrah Mubarak wishes to family and friends while you’re on your pilgrimage WhatsApp messaging works perfectly for this!

May your journey be blessed, and may you stay seamlessly connected with your loved ones throughout your Umrah or Hajj.