How to Install eSIM for Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Guide
Complete instructions for installing and activating your eSIM on iPhone and Android devices
Installing an eSIM for Saudi Arabia is straightforward, but it helps to follow the right steps. This guide walks you through the entire process, from checking compatibility to activating your eSIM when you arrive.
Whether you're travelling for Umrah or Hajj, having your eSIM set up correctly ensures you stay connected from the moment you land in Saudi Arabia.
Before You Start: Check Compatibility
First, make sure your device supports eSIM. Most modern smartphones do, but it's worth checking:
eSIM-Compatible Devices
iPhone
iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and newer models. Check Settings > General > About > Available SIM to confirm.
Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, Z Flip, Z Fold series and newer. Check Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
Google Pixel
Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and newer models. Most Pixel devices support eSIM.
Other Android
Many newer Android devices support eSIM. Check your device settings or manufacturer's website.
Step 1: Purchase Your eSIM Plan
Before you can install an eSIM, you need to purchase a plan:
- Visit our eSIM plans page and choose a plan that matches your trip length and data needs
- Complete the secure checkout process (takes 2-3 minutes)
- You'll receive an email confirmation immediately
- Within minutes, you'll receive a second email with your QR code and activation instructions
Tip: Purchase your eSIM at least 24 hours before you travel. This gives you time to install it and test that everything works before you leave home.
Step 2: Receive Your QR Code
After purchase, check your email (including spam folder) for your eSIM activation email. This email contains:
- Your unique QR code (as an image attachment)
- Activation instructions for your device type
- Manual activation details (SM-DP+ address and activation code) as backup
Important: Save a screenshot of your QR code to your Photos app. This ensures you can access it even if you lose internet connection or can't access your email.
Step 3: Install on iPhone (Detailed Instructions)
Installing eSIM on iPhone is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully:
Open Settings
Tap the Settings app on your iPhone home screen.
Go to Cellular
Scroll down and tap "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data" in some regions).
Add Cellular Plan
Tap "Add Cellular Plan" (or "Add eSIM" on newer iPhones). You'll see options to scan a QR code or enter details manually.
Scan QR Code
Choose "Use QR Code" and point your camera at the QR code from your email. Your iPhone will automatically detect and scan it.
If scanning doesn't work, you can enter the activation code manually from your email.
Label Your eSIM
When prompted, give your eSIM a label like "Saudi Arabia" or "Umrah eSIM" so you can easily identify it later.
Complete Installation
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation. Your iPhone will download the eSIM profile. This usually takes 30-60 seconds.
Note: The eSIM profile is now installed on your iPhone, but it won't activate until you enable it and arrive in Saudi Arabia. You can leave it installed and activate it when you're ready to use data.
Step 4: Install on Android (Detailed Instructions)
Android eSIM installation varies slightly by manufacturer, but the general process is similar:
Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your Android device.
Find SIM Settings
Navigate to "Connections" or "Network & Internet", then tap "SIM card manager" or "Mobile networks". On some devices, this may be under "Dual SIM & mobile network".
Add Mobile Plan
Tap "Add mobile plan" or "Download a SIM instead". You'll see options to scan a QR code or enter details manually.
Scan QR Code
Select "Scan carrier QR code" and point your camera at the QR code from your email. Your Android device will scan and process it.
If scanning fails, you can enter the activation code manually from your email.
Confirm Installation
Review the plan details and tap "Download" or "Activate" to install the eSIM profile. This usually takes 30-60 seconds.
Name Your eSIM
Give your eSIM a name like "Saudi Arabia" or "Umrah" so you can easily identify it in your settings.
Note: Android eSIM settings vary by manufacturer. If you can't find these options, check your device manufacturer's support website or contact us for device-specific guidance.
Step 5: Activate When You Arrive
Once you've installed the eSIM profile, you can activate it when you arrive in Saudi Arabia:
Enable Data Roaming
Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data and enable "Data Roaming" specifically for your eSIM line. This is crucial. Without data roaming enabled, your eSIM won't connect.
Select eSIM for Data
In your cellular/mobile data settings, select your eSIM as the primary line for mobile data. Your home SIM can remain active for calls and texts.
Verify Connection
Within 30-60 seconds, your eSIM should connect to a local Saudi network (STC, Mobily, or Zain). Check your signal bars and try opening a website to confirm connectivity.
Success! Once you see signal bars and can access the internet, your eSIM is active and working. You can now use WhatsApp, navigation apps, the Nusuk app, and all your usual internet services.
Troubleshooting Installation Issues
If you encounter problems during installation, try these solutions:
QR Code Won't Scan
Make sure you have good lighting and the QR code is clear. Try zooming in or using the manual activation code from your email instead.
"eSIM Not Supported" Error
This usually means your device doesn't support eSIM. Check our device compatibility guide or contact your device manufacturer.
Installation Fails Midway
Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection during installation. Try restarting your device and attempting installation again.
Can't Find eSIM Settings
On some Android devices, eSIM settings may be in a different location. Try searching "eSIM" or "Add mobile plan" in your Settings search bar, or check your device manufacturer's support website.
Best Practices for eSIM Installation
- •Install before you travel: Set up your eSIM at home where you have reliable Wi-Fi. This avoids stress at the airport.
- •Save QR code as backup: Take a screenshot of your QR code and save it to your Photos app for offline access.
- •Test before you leave: If possible, enable data roaming briefly at home to verify the eSIM profile installed correctly (don't worry, it won't activate until you're in Saudi Arabia).
- •Keep email accessible: Save your activation email or bookmark it so you can access manual activation details if needed.
- •Enable at the right time: Activate data roaming only when you arrive in Saudi Arabia to avoid starting your validity period early.
Need Help? We're Here for You
If you encounter any issues during installation or activation, our support team is available 24/7 to help. We understand that getting your eSIM working is important for your journey, and we're committed to making sure it works.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know how to install eSIM, get your plan and start the process. Plans start from $3.80 with instant QR code delivery.