Is WhatsApp Calling Allowed in Saudi Arabia?

Terakhir diperbarui: 2026-10-08

Short answer

Officially, yes. Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on internet calling apps in September 2017, and WhatsApp messaging works normally everywhere in the Kingdom. In practice, WhatsApp voice and video calls on local Saudi SIMs have been unreliable for years. They've been reported blocked, then working for a day or a few weeks, then blocked again. The latest wave of "it works now" reports came in early 2025, with no official confirmation.

• WhatsApp chat, voice notes, photos: work
• WhatsApp voice and video calls on a local SIM: intermittent, depends on network and timing
• FaceTime: available in Saudi Arabia since iOS 11.3 and generally reported to work
• Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet: widely used and generally reported to work
• On a travel eSIM: WhatsApp calls usually work, because the data typically leaves Saudi Arabia before reaching the internet (not guaranteed, details below)

See Saudi Arabia eSIM plans

Why the answer is confusing

You'll find two opposite answers online, and both have a basis.

The official side. On 20 September 2017 the telecom regulator, then called the CITC (renamed the Communications, Space and Technology Commission, CST, in 2022), lifted the ban on internet voice and video calls. Apps like Skype, Viber and WhatsApp were allowed, provided they met the regulator's requirements. Apple enabled FaceTime for Saudi Arabia shortly after, with iOS 11.3.

The practical side. WhatsApp calling specifically never settled down on Saudi mobile networks. Reports from 2019 describe it being switched on for a day and then off again. In February 2025 many residents reported WhatsApp calls suddenly working, but neither the government nor WhatsApp confirmed a change, and others still couldn't connect. That's why we describe it as intermittent rather than "allowed" or "blocked".

What never changes: messaging works, and nobody is penalized for trying to make a call.

What works on a travel eSIM in Saudi Arabia

Our Saudi Arabia eSIM uses the STC network, 5G where available, otherwise 4G. It's not a local Saudi SIM though. Like most travel eSIMs, it roams, and the data session is typically routed through the provider's international gateway. On recent Saudi orders that breakout has been in Europe.

Because the WhatsApp call issues happen on local consumer plans, WhatsApp calls usually work on a travel eSIM in Saudi Arabia even on days they don't on a local SIM. The honest caveats:

• It's typical behavior, not a feature we sell. We don't unblock anything; this is how international roaming data tends to flow.
• It can change. Routing and roaming partners can change without notice.
• Have a backup. FaceTime, Zoom, Teams and Google Meet are good fallbacks in Saudi Arabia. A reputable VPN, installed before you fly, is another option.
• Messaging always works.

What you get with our Saudi Arabia eSIM

• Network: STC, 5G where available, otherwise 4G
• Plans: up to 50 GB, valid up to 30 days, top-ups supported
• Data only: your normal SIM and home number stay in the phone. Calls home go over WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal or Telegram on eSIM data. There's no Saudi number and no classic calls or SMS on the eSIM.
• No ID, no paperwork: guest checkout with just an email, no passport upload
• Instant delivery: QR code by email within minutes
• Payment: card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or USDC

Where a local SIM wins: if you're moving to Saudi Arabia for work or staying many months, a local STC, Mobily or Zain line gives you a Saudi number (needed for many local apps) and is cheaper over time. For a visit, Umrah or a business trip, the eSIM is quicker. For coverage and data tips, see our best eSIM for Saudi Arabia guide.

Browse Saudi Arabia eSIM plans

How to set up before you fly

1. Buy your Saudi Arabia eSIM. The QR code arrives by email within minutes.
2. Install it at home on WiFi: iPhone → Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Android → Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM.
3. Optionally install a reputable VPN app as a backup.
4. When you land in Riyadh, Jeddah or Dammam, switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming for that line.
5. Make a quick test call on WhatsApp. If it won't connect, try FaceTime or the VPN.

How much data do calls use?

A WhatsApp voice call uses roughly 0.5 MB per minute, video around 5 MB per minute (about 300 MB an hour). If you video call family daily, choose a bigger plan.

Heading to the Kingdom? Get your Saudi Arabia eSIM and set it up before you fly.