Stepping off the plane at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah or King Khalid International in Riyadh, the last thing you want to do is hunt for a physical SIM card kiosk. For Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, business travelers visiting the Financial District, or tourists exploring the ancient wonders of AlUla, an eSIM is the most efficient way to stay connected.
If you own a Samsung Galaxy flagship-from the S20 series through the latest S24, or the Z Fold and Z Flip models-your device is likely eSIM-compatible. This allows you to download a digital SIM profile and access 5G networks without removing your home country’s physical SIM card.
Here is the practical, step-by-step guide to installing your Saudi eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy device.
Why Use an eSIM for Your Saudi Trip?
When you browse our eSIM plans, you’ll find options tailored for the Kingdom. By choosing a Saudi eSIM, you gain access to the leading 5G networks, including STC, Mobily, and Zain.
One of the biggest advantages for Samsung users is the ability to keep your original SIM active. This means you can continue receiving 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) texts from your bank or work apps on your primary number, while using your Saudi eSIM for affordable high-speed data. Our eSIMs are data-only, support personal hotspots (tethering), and involve an instant QR code delivery via email.
Step 1: Pre-Installation Check
Before you start the installation, ensure your Samsung Galaxy is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. Installation typically takes less than two minutes, but it requires an active internet connection to register the profile with the network.
Device Compatibility: Most Samsung Galaxy S-series (S20 and newer), Note 20, and Galaxy Z series support eSIM. However, ensure your device is "carrier-unlocked." If you bought your phone via a contract that isn't fully paid off, your carrier may have locked the eSIM functionality.
Step 2: Buying Your Plan
For those traveling specifically to the Kingdom, browse our eSIM plans to find a data package that fits your stay-whether it’s a short 7-day business trip or a 30-day pilgrimage. If your itinerary includes a stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, our regional plans also cover the UAE, connecting you to Etisalat and Du on 5G.
Once you purchase, you will receive an email containing a QR code. It is best to display this QR code on another device (like a laptop or a friend's phone) or print it out so your Samsung camera can scan it.
Step 3: Installing the eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
The process is slightly different depending on your version of One UI, but the general path is:
- Open Settings.
- Tap on Connections.
- Tap on SIM manager.
- Select Add eSIM.
- Tap on Scan QR code from service provider.
- Point your camera at the QR code provided in your Saudi eSIM confirmation email.
- When the pop-up asks to "Add mobile plan," tap Add or Confirm.
The phone will now register the eSIM. This process may take a minute. Do not navigate away from the screen until it is finished.
Step 4: Configuring Data Settings
Once the eSIM is added, you need to tell your Samsung phone to use it for data.
- In the SIM manager menu, look for the Preferred SIM section.
- Tap on Mobile data and select the new eSIM (it might be labeled "eSIM 1" or "Travel").
- Ensure Data switching is turned OFF if you want to avoid roaming charges on your primary home SIM.
Crucial Step regarding Data Roaming: Go back to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and ensure that Data roaming is toggled ON. Because our eSIMs use international roaming technology to connect you to local 5G networks like STC, Mobily, or Zain, the "Roaming" switch must be active for the data to flow.
Traveling to the UAE?
If you are transiting through the UAE or enjoying a multi-country trip, your Samsung Galaxy will handle the transition seamlessly. As you land in the UAE, the phone will automatically search for Etisalat or Du coverage. Ensure your data settings remain pointed to the eSIM, and you will enjoy 5G speeds instantly.
Managing Your Connection
Our Saudi eSIMs are designed for convenience. Here are a few things to remember during your trip:
- Validity: The validity period of your data plan starts only when your phone connects to a supported network in Saudi Arabia or the UAE for the first time. You can safely install the eSIM a day or two before you fly.
- Tethering: If you need to work on your laptop at a cafe in Jeddah or share data with a family member during Umrah, you can enable "Mobile Hotspot" on your Samsung Galaxy.
- Support: If you encounter any issues during the setup, we provide 24/7 live chat support to help you get back online.
Summary of Benefits for Samsung Users
- Instant Delivery: Get your QR code via email immediately after purchase.
- 5G Connectivity: Experience high-speed 5G on STC, Mobily, and Zain in SA, or Etisalat and Du in AE.
- No Physical Swap: Keep your home SIM inside your phone; no needles or tiny plastic cards to deal with.
- Budget-Friendly: Avoid the high roaming fees usually charged by home carriers.
By following these steps, your Samsung Galaxy will be fully equipped for the futuristic cities of NEOM, the spiritual journey of Hajj, or the high-stakes meetings in Riyadh. Stay connected from the moment you touch down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make phone calls with my Saudi eSIM? Our eSIMs are data-only. This means they do not come with a local phone number for traditional cellular calls or SMS. However, you can use WhatsApp, Telegram, FaceTime, or Skype to make crystal-clear calls using the 5G data provided by STC, Mobily, or Zain.
Q2: Will my home SIM still work for texts? Yes. Your Samsung Galaxy is a "Dual SIM" device. If you keep your primary SIM active in the SIM manager, you will still receive incoming SMS messages (like bank alerts). Just ensure that "Mobile Data" is strictly set to your Saudi eSIM to avoid expensive data roaming from your home provider.
Q3: What should I do if the 5G signal isn't appearing? First, ensure "Data Roaming" is enabled in your Samsung settings. If you still don't see 5G, try manually selecting a network. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators and toggle off "Select automatically." You can then manually choose Mobily, Zain, or STC depending on which has the strongest signal in your current location.