Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular destination for Israeli travelers — whether for tourism, business, or visiting family. But when it comes to staying connected abroad, many travelers still worry about the process. If you're torn between roaming, a local SIM card, or eSIM, this article will save you time and money.
Why is eSIM the best choice for Saudi Arabia?
When you travel to Saudi Arabia, you need fast and affordable connectivity. International roaming can be very expensive, and buying a local SIM card at the airport requires time and knowledge of the local language. eSIM solves both problems.
With nRed's eSIM, you can set up internet connectivity before you even leave the plane. No physical card needed, no complicated swaps — just scan a QR code and you're ready to go. Your Israeli SIM stays in your device (just remember to turn off data roaming to avoid unexpected charges).
Step 1: Check before your flight
Before you leave Israel, check three essential things:
- Your device supports eSIM: Most newer phones (iPhone XS and above, Samsung Galaxy S20 and above) support eSIM. If you're unsure, check your device's specification page.
- Your Israeli SIM: Turn off data roaming in settings before your flight. This is crucial to avoid charges abroad.
- Home internet: Make sure you have Wi-Fi access at home or at the airport before your flight, as you'll need to download the eSIM.
Step 2: Download your eSIM
At the nRed store, select the package that suits Saudi Arabia. You'll receive a digital QR code via email or SMS. That code is all you need — nothing else required.
It's best to download the eSIM while you're still at home, when you have stable internet. If you download it at the airport, make sure you're connected to strong Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Install your eSIM
In Saudi Arabia, when you're ready to connect:
- Open your phone's settings.
- Go to "Cellular" or "Mobile" (depending on your iOS or Android version).
- Select "Add Data Plan" or "Add eSIM".
- Scan the QR code you received.
- Set the new eSIM as your primary connection.
Within minutes, you'll be connected to the internet in Saudi Arabia. It's that simple.
Step 4: Verify your connection is active
After installation, check that you have network signal. You should see the name of Saudi Arabia's network provider at the top of your screen. Try using WhatsApp, Google Maps, or any other app to confirm the connection is working.
Practical tips for your trip
- Save battery: Use Maps sparingly, as GPS drains a lot of battery. Download maps before you leave your hotel.
- Check your quota: At the nRed store you'll see exactly how many GB you have. Monitor your usage to avoid surprises.
- Your Israeli SIM: Keep it active on your phone. If you need to make a regular call to Israel (not through an app), you can do so when you're on Wi-Fi.
Common issues and how to solve them
eSIM won't install? Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi. Scanning a QR code requires stable internet connection.
No network signal? Check that you've selected the new eSIM as your primary connection in settings. Sometimes you need to restart your phone.
Connection is slow? This depends on local network conditions, not the eSIM. Try switching from 4G to 5G in settings if possible.
Summary
Installing eSIM in Saudi Arabia is simple and cost-effective. With this guide, you'll be ready to stay connected throughout your trip — without worries, without surprises, and without needing a physical card. Saudi Arabia awaits you, and now you're ready to enjoy it without connection problems.
