Keeping in Touch in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom can feel isolated and restrictive much of the time, and staying in contact with family and friends is an important part of expat life in Saudi Arabia. The telecommunications sector has seen much improvement and diversification in recent years, and with a competitive market, expats will have a variety of options when it comes to keeping in touch in Saudi Arabia.

Internet in Saudi Arabia

Expats have access to fixed-line and wireless broadband, and mobile internet in Saudi Arabia. WiFi is widely available in cities, and mobile broadband is increasingly common. However, fixed-line connections are often the cheapest and most reliable option.

The most prominent internet service providers are STC, Mobily and Zain. Expats generally only need their Iqama (residence permit) to open an account.

VoIP and instant messaging applications such as Skype and WhatsApp are currently easy to access, but have been subject to bans in the past.

Online censorship

Despite the ease of accessing communications in Saudi Arabia, content is heavily restricted. Anyone accessing or publishing information can’t be seen to criticise or contradict the values of Islam and the state.

Numerous pages relating to health, religion, education, humour and even entertainment have been banned, but the most aggressive censorship is reserved for content relating to pornography, drug use, gambling and religious conversion of Muslims.

Mobile phones in Saudi Arabia

Mobile services in Saudi Arabia are extensive, even in remote areas of the country. Pre- and postpaid packages are available.

Many expats opt for prepaid SIM cards, which can be bought at provider outlets or the airport. Postpaid accounts can also be set up at provider outlets. As with the internet, the most popular mobile service providers are STC, Mobily and Zain.

Postal services in Saudi Arabia

The country’s postal services are managed by Saudi Post, with standard deliveries taking three to seven days. Express options are also available for faster delivery.

International deliveries tend to take much longer than local deliveries, ranging from one to four weeks. It’s therefore best to send any packages abroad early.

English-language media in Saudi Arabia

Keeping up to date with news back home is also a good way to stay connected. Most English-language media is based on local and international hard news. Electronic and print publications like Arab News also offer information and advice aimed at the expat community.