How to Keep Your Saudi Number Active When Traveling Abroad

Many travelers worry about losing access to their Saudi number during a trip. The fix is simple and proven: two SIM lines at once — your Saudi SIM for receiving calls, and an Airalo eSIM for data at a reasonable price.

The optimal setup: eSIM + your Saudi SIM

If your phone supports Dual SIM + eSIM (most iPhone 12+ and many modern Android devices):

1. Keep your Saudi SIM in the physical SIM slot.
2. Install Airalo eSIM as your data line.
3. In cellular settings, set the eSIM as the default data line and your Saudi SIM for calls and messages.

What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?

• Option A: activate a paid roaming plan for incoming calls only (an economy option) with your carrier.
• Option B: use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom over Wi-Fi for communication.
• Option C: notify close contacts and work before travel with an alternative contact number.

Key points

• Check your carrier's policy on line suspension during prolonged inactivity.
• Some carriers offer a "receive-only roaming" package at a small fee — ask about it.

FAQ

Do I need a full roaming plan? Only if you want to make external calls; for receiving calls, limited receive-only roaming is enough. Will my number be cancelled if unused? Most carriers keep the number for 90+ days — check their policy.

👉 Airalo eSIM · WhatsApp

Written by the Tether.sa team