Saudi Arabia eSIM

Most flagship smartphones released since 2018-2019 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer. Tablets, smartwatches and an increasing number of laptops also support eSIM. The fastest way to verify your specific device is to check Settings , if you see "Add eSIM" or "Add cellular plan" as an option, you're compatible.

eSIM compatibility is now standard across the high-end smartphone market and rapidly spreading into mid-range devices. eSIM Scout works with any unlocked, eSIM-capable device , no special configuration needed beyond scanning the QR code we send you.

iPhones with eSIM support

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018) , first iPhones with eSIM (one physical SIM + one eSIM).
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max (2019).
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max (2020).
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max (2021) , supports two active eSIMs simultaneously.
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (2022) , US versions are eSIM-only (no physical SIM tray).
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPhone SE 3 and later , full eSIM support.

Google Pixel with eSIM support

• Pixel 3 / 3 XL and all later models (Pixel 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold).

Samsung Galaxy with eSIM support

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE (2020) , first Galaxy with eSIM.
• Galaxy S21 / S22 / S23 / S24 series (all variants except some regional versions).
• Galaxy Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5 and Z Flip 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
• Galaxy Note 20, 20 Ultra.
• Note: Some regional Samsung variants (e.g., specific Hong Kong dual-SIM physical models) may not support eSIM. Check Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager.

Other Android devices with eSIM

• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro and newer flagships.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30 series, ThinkPhone.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 series and newer (international versions).
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 (verify region).
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV, 5 IV, 10 IV and newer.
• Nokia / HMD: G60, X30 5G.

How to verify eSIM support on your device

1. iPhone: Settings → Cellular → look for "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan". You can also dial *#06# , if you see an "EID" (32-digit number), your phone has eSIM hardware.
2. Android: Settings → Connections (or Network & Internet) → SIM Cards → look for "Download a SIM instead" or "Add eSIM".
3. EID check: most eSIM-capable Android phones show EID in Settings → About Phone → Status.

Tip: Even if your phone supports eSIM hardware, it must be unlocked (not carrier-locked) to use third-party eSIMs like eSIM Scout. Most phones bought outright are unlocked; phones from carrier instalment plans may require unlocking after the contract is paid off.

Almost every flagship smartphone released since 2019 supports eSIM, making it ideal for international travel. Compatible models include iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, plus a growing list of mid-range devices. If your phone has Settings → Cellular → "Add eSIM", you're ready to use a eSIM Scout plan abroad.

Travellers benefit most from eSIM because it eliminates the airport SIM-card queue, removes the need to swap your home SIM out, and lets you keep your usual phone number active for SMS verification. A eSIM Scout travel eSIM activates the moment you land , no shop visit required.

Best eSIM-compatible travel phones

• iPhone (2018+): XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series and SE 3rd gen , all support Dual SIM with one physical SIM + one eSIM. iPhone 14/15/16 in the US is eSIM-only.
• Google Pixel (2018+): Pixel 3 through Pixel 9 , all support eSIM. Pixel 7 Pro and newer support multiple active eSIMs.
• Samsung Galaxy (2020+): S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, Note 20, Fold and Flip series.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30/40, ThinkPhone , most newer flagships.
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 , varies by region.
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV / V, Xperia 10 IV / V.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 international and newer flagships.
• Nokia/HMD: G60 5G, X30 5G.

What to check before buying a travel eSIM

1. eSIM hardware: dial *#06# , if an EID number appears, you're compatible.
2. Carrier unlock status: phones bought on instalment plans may be locked to your home carrier. Most outright purchases are unlocked.
3. iOS version: iOS 12.1 or newer for full eSIM support.
4. Android version: Android 9 or newer typically supports eSIM, though it depends on the manufacturer.
5. Region-specific variants: some Samsung models sold in Hong Kong or China are dual physical SIM with no eSIM , verify your specific model number.

Travel-friendly phones that don't support eSIM

• iPhones older than XS (iPhone X, 8, 7, 6 series).
• Most budget Android phones (entry-level Samsung A series before A53, Xiaomi Redmi entry models).
• Older Huawei devices without Google Services.
• Region-specific dual physical SIM variants (verify model number).

Tip: if your current phone doesn't support eSIM but you travel often, an unlocked, mid-range eSIM-capable phone (e.g., Pixel 7a, iPhone SE 3, Samsung Galaxy A55) makes an excellent secondary travel device , pair it with a eSIM Scout plan and you have a full mobile internet kit for any destination.

No, they are NOT blocked! This is the most important question. Unlike in the UAE (Dubai), Saudi Arabia allows you to make calls on WhatsApp, FaceTime, Messenger, and other VoIP apps. Our eSIM provides high-speed data so you can easily make video calls to your family from Makkah or Madinah. 

Yes, absolutely. This plan is perfect for Hajj and Umrah. Our eSIM connects to premium local networks (like STC or Mobily) that have installed high-capacity 5G/LTE towers in Makkah and Madinah. You will have a strong signal inside the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque), at your hotel, and in the tent cities at Mina and Arafat. 

Yes, 100%. Buying a physical "Hajj SIM" at Jeddah or Madinah airport requires you to wait in very long queues and go through a mandatory biometric (fingerprint) and passport registration process. Our eSIM is 100% digital, requires no ID registration or fingerprints, and can be installed before you fly, so you are connected the moment you land. 

Our Saudi Arabia eSIM connects to premium Tier-1 networks, typically STC (Saudi Telecom Company) or Mobily, with STC widely regarded as the #1 provider.

Yes, your eSIM is designed to connect you to STC, Saudi Arabia's leading network, whenever possible. STC is known for offering the fastest 5G network and the most extensive coverage across the country, ensuring you have a strong and reliable connection throughout your travels. While you aren't purchasing an STC-branded eSIM directly, our service leverages their robust infrastructure to provide you with top-tier connectivity.

This means you benefit from the same high-quality network that local STC users enjoy, without the hassle of buying a local SIM or navigating specific STC eSIM packages or pricing. Here’s what you gain:

• Access to STC's #1 network with fast 5G.
• Extensive coverage across Saudi Arabia.
• Simplified connectivity without local SIM hassle.

Our eSIM ensures you stay connected effortlessly, allowing you to focus on your trip.

 This specific plan is valid only within Saudi Arabia. This is a critical point. If you are on a multi-country trip and fly from Dubai (UAE) or Doha (Qatar), your connection will stop at the border. For this, we highly recommend our Middle East Regional eSIM to stay connected seamlessly in all countries. 

 Most modern phones do, but you must check our specific list here: eSIM Compatible Devices to be 100% sure before purchasing. 

 Yes. Careem and Uber are the primary ways to get around Riyadh and Jeddah, and reliable data is essential to book rides safely without cash. 

 Yes. Coverage is excellent in the tourist hub of AlUla and near the Hegra archaeological site, allowing you to share photos of the ancient tombs instantly. 

 Yes. You will have strong 5G signal at Boulevard World and other Riyadh Season venues, perfect for livestreaming the concerts and shows. 

 Absolutely. Saudi Arabia is a car-centric country, and having real-time data for Google Maps is vital to navigate the massive highways and avoid missed exits.