How to Call Saudi Arabia | Saudi Arabia Mobile Number List

Calling Saudi Arabia from the United States can seem daunting, but with the right information and tools, it can be a straightforward process. Whether you’re reaching out to family, friends, or business associates, understanding how to dial correctly is essential for effective communication. This guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to call Saudi Arabia, including dialing formats, area codes, costs, and tips to save money.

Understanding International Dialing

International dialing involves a specific format that varies from country to country. When calling the Saudi Arabia Mobile Number List you need to be familiar with the exit codes, country codes, and local area codes. This knowledge will ensure that your calls are successful and efficient.

Dialing Codes and Format

To call Saudi Arabia from the US, follow this dialing format:

1. US Exit Code: 011 (This code is used to exit the US telephone system)
2. Saudi Arabia Country Code: 966 (This code directs your call to Saudi Arabia)
3. Area Code: This varies by region; omit the leading 0.
4. Local Number: The specific number you wish to reach.

Example of Dialing a Landline in Saudi Arabia

To call a landline in Riyadh, for example, you would dial:

• 011-966-1-XXXX-XXXX

Here, 1 is the area code for Riyadh, and XXXX-XXXX is the local number.

Example of Dialing a Mobile Phone in Saudi Arabia

To call a mobile phone in Saudi Arabia, the format is slightly different:

• 011-966-5XXXXXXXX

In this case, the 5 indicates that it is a mobile number, followed by the local number.

Area Codes in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has various area codes that correspond to different regions within the country. Here are some of the popular area codes:

When calling a landline, remember to omit the leading zero from the area code. For example, to call a number in Riyadh, you would dial 1 instead of 01.

Costs of Calling Saudi Arabia from the US

The cost of calling Saudi Arabia from the US can vary significantly based on your phone service provider and the method you choose to make the call. Here are some general cost considerations:

1. Direct Dialing: If you call directly from your phone service provider, the rates can be quite high, often ranging from $0.50 to $3.00 per minute.
2. Calling Cards: Using an international calling card can reduce costs significantly. Rates can be as low as 5 to 10 cents per minute, depending on the card and provider.
3. VoIP Services: Services like Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp can offer lower rates or even free calls if both parties are using the same service. However, be aware that internet connectivity may affect call quality.
4. Local Dial-in Numbers: Some services provide local dial-in numbers that allow you to call a local number first, which then connects you to Saudi Arabia. This method can also reduce costs significantly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Saudi Arabia

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you make calls to Saudi Arabia:

Step 1: Dial the US Exit Code

Begin by dialing 011, which is the exit code for making international calls from the United States.

Step 2: Dial the Saudi Arabia Country Code

Next, dial 966, which is the country code for Saudi Arabia.

Step 3: Dial the Area Code

After the country code, dial the area code for the specific region in Saudi Arabia you are calling. Remember to omit the leading zero.

Step 4: Dial the Local Number

Finally, enter the local phone number you wish to reach.

Example of a Complete Call

If you were to call a landline number in Riyadh, your complete dialing sequence would look like this:

• 011-966-1-XXXX-XXXX

If you were calling a mobile number, it would look like this:

• 011-966-5XXXXXXXX

Tips for Making Successful Calls to Saudi Arabia

1. Check Time Zones: Saudi Arabia operates on Arabian Standard Time (UTC+3). Be mindful of the time difference when making calls to ensure you reach your contacts at a suitable hour. For example, if it’s noon in New York, it’s 7 PM in Riyadh.
2. Use a Reliable Connection: Poor call quality can lead to misunderstandings. If possible, use a landline or a high-quality VoIP service with a strong internet connection.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Cultural Norms: Understanding the cultural context can enhance your communication. For example, greetings and formalities may differ from those in the US. A common greeting in Arabic is “As-salamu alaykum,” which means “Peace be upon you.”
4. Save Frequently Called Numbers: Store important numbers in your phone using the international format (e.g., +966-1-XXXX-XXXX). This will save time and reduce the risk of dialing errors.
5. Consider Using a Translation App or Service: If you’re not fluent in Arabic, consider using a translation app to facilitate communication. While many Saudis speak English, especially in urban areas, knowing a few basic phrases can go a long way.

Making Calls Using Apps

In today’s digital age, many people prefer using apps to make international calls due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness. Here are some popular options:

1. WhatsApp: If both you and the person you are calling have the Latest Lead WhatsApp, you can make free voice and video calls over the internet. This is a popular option among Saudis, especially for personal calls.
2. Skype: Skype allows you to call landlines and mobiles in Saudi Arabia at lower rates. You can also make free Skype-to-Skype calls.
3. Google Voice: This service allows you to make international calls at competitive rates and send texts.
4. Viber: Viber is another app that allows you to make free calls to other Viber users. You can also purchase credits to call landlines and mobile numbers at lower rates.
5. Yolla: Yolla is an app specifically designed for making international calls. It allows you to call Saudi Arabia easily without needing to memorize complex exit codes.

Challenges While Calling Saudi Arabia

While calling Saudi Arabia is generally straightforward, there can be challenges:

• Time Zone Differences: As mentioned, Saudi Arabia is ahead of the US, which can lead to inconvenient calling times.
• Language Barriers: Not everyone in Saudi Arabia speaks English fluently. If you don’t speak Arabic well, it might be helpful to have a translation app handy.
• Cultural Differences: Saudi communication styles can be more formal than what you might be used to in the US. Understanding these nuances can help avoid misunderstandings.

Business Phone Call Etiquette in Saudi Arabia: Dos and Don’ts

If you’re calling Saudi Arabia for business purposes, it’s essential to be aware of local etiquette:

Dos:

• Be Punctual: Time is highly valued in Saudi culture. Make sure to call at the agreed-upon time.
• Use Formal Greetings: Start your conversation with a formal greeting. Use “As-salamu alaykum” when answering the phone.
• Prepare Your Points: Have a clear agenda for your call to ensure that you cover all necessary topics efficiently.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Personal Questions: Saudis tend to be private and may find personal questions intrusive, especially in a business context.
• Don’t Interrupt: Allow the other person to finish speaking before you respond. Interrupting can be seen as rude.
• Avoid Calling During Prayer Times: Be mindful of prayer times, as many Saudis may not be available to take calls during these periods.