How to Call Saudi Arabia from Anywhere: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling Saudi Arabia from abroad might seem daunting at first, but with the right information and a little preparation, it’s a straightforward process. Whether you’re calling for business, to connect with family and friends, or for any other reason, this comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed steps and instructions to make your call a success.
## Understanding the Basics: Country Code, Area Codes, and Phone Numbers
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s clarify some fundamental aspects of international calling:
* **Country Code:** Every country has a unique country code used when calling from abroad. The country code for Saudi Arabia is **+966**. You’ll need to dial this code before the Saudi Arabian phone number.
* **Area Codes:** Saudi Arabia is divided into several regions, each with its own area code. These codes are typically one or two digits long and are crucial for directing your call to the correct location within the country. We’ll provide a list of common area codes later in this article.
* **Phone Numbers:** Saudi Arabian phone numbers typically consist of 8 or 9 digits, excluding the country code and area code. Mobile numbers usually start with ’05’.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Saudi Arabia
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to call Saudi Arabia from anywhere in the world:
**Step 1: Exit Code (International Access Code)**
First, you need to dial the exit code (also called the international access code) for the country you are calling from. This code tells your phone carrier that you’re making an international call. Here are some common exit codes:
* **United States and Canada:** 011
* **United Kingdom:** 00
* **Australia:** 0011
* **European Countries:** 00
* **Japan:** 010
If you’re unsure of the exit code for your country, a quick online search for “exit code for [your country]” will provide the correct information.
**Step 2: Dial the Saudi Arabia Country Code**
After the exit code, dial the country code for Saudi Arabia, which is **966**.
**Step 3: Dial the Area Code**
Next, you need to dial the correct area code for the specific region you are calling in Saudi Arabia. Here’s a list of some common Saudi Arabian area codes:
* **Riyadh (Ar Riyad):** 11
* **Jeddah (Jiddah):** 12
* **Mecca (Makkah):** 12
* **Medina (Al Madinah):** 14
* **Dammam:** 13
* **Taif:** 12
* **Khobar:** 13
* **Abha:** 17
* **Yanbu:** 14
* **Al Jubail:** 13
If you don’t know the area code, try to find it by searching online for “area code for [city name], Saudi Arabia.” You can also ask the person you’re calling to provide the complete number, including the area code.
**Step 4: Dial the Local Phone Number**
Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach. This number will typically be 7 or 8 digits long.
**Putting it All Together: The Complete Dialing Sequence**
Here’s the complete dialing sequence, using an example of calling a landline number in Riyadh from the United States:
1. **Exit Code (United States):** 011
2. **Saudi Arabia Country Code:** 966
3. **Riyadh Area Code:** 11
4. **Local Phone Number:** (Example) 1234567
So, the complete number you would dial is: **011-966-11-1234567**
**Example: Calling a Mobile Number in Jeddah from the UK**
1. **Exit Code (United Kingdom):** 00
2. **Saudi Arabia Country Code:** 966
3. **Mobile Phone Prefix (usually 5, without the leading zero)** 5
4. **Local Mobile Number:** (Example) 12345678
So, the complete number you would dial is: **00-966-512345678** (Note that since it is a mobile number, you dial ‘5’ instead of the area code and you remove the initial zero (‘0′) from the Saudi mobile number.)
## Alternative Methods for Calling Saudi Arabia
While dialing directly using the steps above is a common method, several alternative methods can be more convenient or cost-effective.
**1. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services**
VoIP services allow you to make calls over the internet, often at significantly lower rates than traditional phone calls. Some popular VoIP services include:
* **Skype:** Skype offers both free calls to other Skype users and paid calls to landlines and mobile numbers worldwide. Its rates for calling Saudi Arabia are usually very competitive.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice provides phone numbers and allows you to make calls through your Google account. It offers affordable international calling rates, including to Saudi Arabia.
* **WhatsApp:** WhatsApp allows free calls to other WhatsApp users and also offers paid calls to regular phone numbers with WhatsApp credit at competitive rates.
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free calls to other Viber users and paid calls to landlines and mobile numbers.
* **MagicJack:** MagicJack is a device that connects to your internet connection and allows you to make calls to the US, Canada, and many other countries for a low monthly or annual fee. While not directly an international calling service in the traditional sense, it can be used for calls originating from the US or Canada to Saudi Arabia if you have someone located there with the MagicJack device.
**How to use VoIP Services:**
* **Download and Install:** Download and install the chosen VoIP application on your computer or smartphone.
* **Create an Account:** Create an account and configure your profile.
* **Add Credit or Subscribe:** Depending on the service, you may need to add credit to your account or subscribe to a plan.
* **Dial the Number:** Use the application’s dialer to enter the Saudi Arabian phone number, including the exit code (if necessary), country code, area code, and local number.
**2. Mobile Apps with International Calling Features**
Many mobile apps offer built-in international calling features at competitive rates. These apps often leverage VoIP technology to provide cheaper calls.
* **Rebtel:** Rebtel offers international calls at low rates by using local phone lines whenever possible to connect your call, resulting in better call quality and reliability.
* **Lycamobile:** Lycamobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that offers prepaid SIM cards and calling plans with competitive international rates, including to Saudi Arabia.
* **Local Calling Apps (with International Credit):** Many local mobile carriers have their own apps where you can purchase international credits at discounted rates.
**3. Calling Cards**
Calling cards provide a prepaid way to make international calls. You purchase a card with a specific amount of calling credit and then use a PIN to access the service. While their popularity has waned with the advent of VoIP services, they can still be useful for those who prefer a more traditional method or need to make calls from public phones.
**How to use Calling Cards:**
* **Purchase a Card:** Buy a calling card from a convenience store, supermarket, or online retailer.
* **Scratch Off the PIN:** Carefully scratch off the PIN on the back of the card.
* **Dial the Access Number:** Dial the access number provided on the card.
* **Enter the PIN:** Enter the PIN when prompted.
* **Dial the Number:** Dial the Saudi Arabian phone number, including the exit code (if necessary), country code, area code, and local number.
**4. Online Calling Platforms**
Several online platforms allow you to make calls directly from your web browser. These platforms typically use VoIP technology and offer competitive rates.
* **Poptox:** Poptox is an online platform that allows you to make free or cheap international calls directly from your browser. Some calls may be free, supported by advertising, while others require payment.
* **iEvaphone:** iEvaphone is another online platform that provides free or cheap international calls. The service may offer a limited number of free calls per day.
**5. Mobile Carrier International Calling Plans**
Many mobile carriers offer international calling plans that include discounted rates for calls to Saudi Arabia. Check with your mobile carrier to see if they offer such plans.
**Advantages of Using Alternative Methods:**
* **Cost-Effective:** VoIP services and mobile apps often offer significantly lower rates than traditional phone calls.
* **Convenient:** These methods can be used from anywhere with an internet connection or mobile service.
* **Feature-Rich:** VoIP services and mobile apps often offer additional features such as video calling, instant messaging, and file sharing.
## Understanding Saudi Arabian Phone Number Structure
To better understand how to dial Saudi Arabian phone numbers, it’s helpful to break down the structure:
* **Landline Numbers:** Landline numbers typically consist of the area code followed by a 7 or 8-digit local number. For example, in Riyadh (area code 11), a landline number might look like 11-1234567.
* **Mobile Numbers:** Mobile numbers typically start with ’05’ followed by 8 digits. When calling from abroad, you must drop the leading ‘0’ from the ’05’ prefix and use ‘5’ after the country code. For example, a Saudi Arabian mobile number might look like 05-12345678. When dialing from abroad, it would be dialed as 966-5-12345678.
## Tips for Making Successful Calls to Saudi Arabia
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your calls to Saudi Arabia are successful:
* **Double-Check the Number:** Before dialing, carefully double-check the entire phone number, including the exit code, country code, area code, and local number. A single incorrect digit can prevent your call from going through.
* **Be Mindful of Time Zones:** Saudi Arabia operates on Saudi Arabian Standard Time (SAST), which is GMT+3. Be mindful of the time difference between your location and Saudi Arabia to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. You can use online time zone converters to determine the current time in Saudi Arabia.
* **Consider Cultural Etiquette:** When calling Saudi Arabia, it’s important to be mindful of cultural etiquette. Avoid calling during prayer times, which occur five times a day. Also, be respectful in your conversation and avoid discussing sensitive topics.
* **Ensure a Stable Internet Connection (for VoIP):** If you’re using a VoIP service, ensure you have a stable and reliable internet connection to avoid call quality issues.
* **Use a Headset or Earphones:** Using a headset or earphones can improve call quality and reduce background noise.
* **Speak Clearly and Slowly:** When speaking, speak clearly and slowly, especially if you’re not fluent in Arabic. This will help the person on the other end understand you better.
* **Be Patient:** International calls can sometimes experience delays or connection issues. Be patient and try again if your call doesn’t go through the first time.
* **Check for Holidays:** Be aware of public holidays in Saudi Arabia, as businesses and government offices may be closed, and individuals may be celebrating, which can affect when you should call.
* **Alternative Contact Methods:** If you can’t get through by phone, consider using alternative contact methods like email or messaging apps, which might be more convenient for the person you’re trying to reach.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter some issues when calling Saudi Arabia. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Call Not Going Through:**
* **Incorrect Number:** Double-check the entire phone number for any errors.
* **Blocked Number:** The person you’re calling may have blocked your number.
* **International Calling Restrictions:** Your phone carrier may have international calling restrictions in place. Contact your carrier to remove these restrictions.
* **Technical Issues:** There may be technical issues with the phone network. Try again later.
* **Poor Call Quality:**
* **Weak Internet Connection (VoIP):** Ensure you have a stable and reliable internet connection.
* **Network Congestion:** Network congestion can sometimes cause poor call quality. Try calling at a different time.
* **Distance:** The distance between you and the person you’re calling can affect call quality. Use a VoIP service that offers high-quality audio.
* **High Calling Costs:**
* **Expensive Calling Plan:** Check your phone plan and consider switching to a plan with lower international calling rates.
* **Using Traditional Phone Service:** Use a VoIP service or mobile app with cheaper international calling rates.
* **Can’t Hear the Other Person:**
* **Microphone Issues:** Check your microphone settings and ensure it’s working properly.
* **Volume Issues:** Make sure the volume is turned up on both your phone and the other person’s phone.
* **Muted Call:** Check to see if you have accidentally muted your call.
## Staying Connected: Beyond Phone Calls
While phone calls are a direct way to connect, consider other methods for staying in touch with people in Saudi Arabia, especially when direct communication isn’t immediately necessary or when dealing with non-urgent matters:
* **Email:** Email is a reliable way to send messages and documents.
* **Messaging Apps:** Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and others are excellent for quick messaging and file sharing. Many are used ubiquitously in Saudi Arabia.
* **Social Media:** Social media platforms can help you stay updated on friends’ and family’s lives.
* **Video Calls:** Services like Skype, FaceTime, and Google Meet offer video calls, making communication more personal.
## Conclusion
Calling Saudi Arabia from abroad is manageable with the correct knowledge and tools. By understanding the necessary codes, alternative methods, and some helpful tips, you can effectively connect with family, friends, or business contacts. Whether you prefer the direct dialing method or choose to leverage the cost-effectiveness of VoIP services, staying connected with Saudi Arabia is within easy reach. Remember to always double-check the number, consider the time zone, and be mindful of cultural etiquette for a smooth and respectful communication experience.