For a week in Saudi Arabia, most travellers need 7 to 15GB of data. Light users on maps and messaging sit at the lower end; if you stream, video-call or share a hotspot, aim higher. A travel eSIM is data-only, keeps your own number, and connects to one of the country's main 5G networks (STC, Mobily or Zain) where available.
How much data each activity really uses
The fastest way to size a plan is to know what drains it:
| Activity | Rough data use |
|---|---|
| Messaging (WhatsApp text, email) | A few MB a day |
| Maps and navigation | 5-10 MB per hour |
| Voice calls (WhatsApp/FaceTime audio) | 20-30 MB per hour |
| Video calls | 200-300 MB per hour |
| Social scrolling (Instagram, TikTok) | 0.5-1 GB per hour |
| Music streaming | 50-100 MB per hour |
| Video streaming (HD) | 1.5-3 GB per hour |
Notice what stands out: maps and messaging are tiny, but social scrolling and HD streaming are what burn through a plan. A week of maps, messaging and a daily call home fits comfortably in 7 to 10GB. Add daily Instagram and some streaming, and 15GB is the safer pick.
Getting online when you land
Switch the eSIM on when you arrive at Riyadh (RUH) or Jeddah (JED) and you are connected before the taxi rank, ready for maps and ride apps. Install it over WiFi at home first.
Beyond the cities
Heading out on a road trip from Riyadh to AlUla, or to the Red Sea coast, the eSIM stays connected on the local 5G networks, with speeds varying by location. Download offline maps for the long desert stretches.
Before you buy
Your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-compatible (most iPhones from 2018, recent Samsung and Pixel), and the plan's validity should cover your whole trip. See network and coverage for the local networks and how much data you need for a fuller breakdown.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5GB enough for a week in Saudi Arabia? For light use (maps, messaging, the odd call) it lasts around 5 days. For a full week, or if you scroll social and stream, choose 10GB or more.
Does WhatsApp calling work in Saudi Arabia? Yes, with a travel eSIM you use WhatsApp, FaceTime and similar apps over your data as normal.
Which network does it use? One of Saudi Arabia's main 5G networks (STC, Mobily or Zain) where available.
Can I tether a laptop? Yes, hotspot is supported, but tethering uses data faster, so size up if you plan to work from your laptop.