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Does WhatsApp work in Saudi Arabia? How to access with Holafly
How does WhatsApp work in Saudi Arabia? Find out how you can make voice and video calls without worrying about local restrictions with a travel eSIM.
Similar to other countries in the Middle East, there are some restrictions on how WhatsApp works in Saudi Arabia.
You can use WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia, but some features are limited due to internal strict regulations. However, there are some alternatives to avoid this blockage as a traveler.
Keep reading to learn how WhatsApp works in Saudi Arabia, and how using a travel eSIM for Saudi Arabia from Holafly can help you get all the features you need.
Peace of mind before you fly
Set up your eSIM before travel and get unlimited data on arrival.
Can I use WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia?
Due to regulatory policies, you can’t make voice or video calls. This restriction is imposed because the local government aims to protect the revenue of local telecom providers, like STC, Zain, and Mobily, while also keeping strict control over communication channels and VoIP services.
Even though the local government has restricted voice and video calls, WhatsApp texting still works in Saudi Arabia.
Do WhatsApp messages work in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. WhatsApp messages work in Saudi Arabia without limitations. However, the limitations don’t apply to sending voice messages, photos, or videos.
Do WhatsApp calls work in Saudi Arabia?
Voice calls don’t work in WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia. This is due to the strict control the government has imposed over these apps at a local level, but alternatives, such as a travel eSIM, can help you avoid the hassle.
Do WhatsApp video calls work in Saudi Arabia?
Like voice calls, you can’t make video calls in WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia. However, some travel eSIMs can still make this possible.
How to use WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia
WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia works in a limited way. However, if you need to access voice and video calls for personal or professional reasons, there are two options to consider.
- Using a VPN: While possible, this is NOT recommended as it is indirectly illegal. Some travelers in Saudi Arabia use VPN apps like TunnelBear, ProtonVPN, or ExpressVPN to access services such as WhatsApp voice and video calls. These apps are available on the App Store and Google Play. However, be aware that using a VPN to bypass local restrictions may violate local regulations and should be done at your own discretion.
- Travel eSIM: Companies like Holafly offer an eSIM for Saudi Arabia that uses international providers. This means you won’t need to download or pay for an additional app and can use all WhatsApp features at no extra cost.
Holafly eSIM for Saudi Arabia: Unlimited data for all your apps
With the Holafly eSIM for Saudi Arabia, aside from making phone and video calls, you’ll also get up to 500 MB of data tethering per day, up to 5G data speeds, 24/7 customer support, and pay as little as $3.35/day for the eSIM.
But, how does WhatsApp for Saudi Arabia work with an eSIM? You simply choose the length of your trip, install the eSIM on your phone, and you’ll be able to use WhatsApp without limitations.
Unlimited data. Peace of mind.
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Plans that may interest you
I first started my content creation journey as a freelancer in 2019, before connecting with Holafly in 2021. At Holafly, my travel and tech interests come together in one place as I craft high-quality articles about the eSIM and related markets. My content aims to help travelers stay connected, wherever they are.
