How to Call Saudi Arabia
Complete guide to dialing Saudi Arabia (country code +966)
Calling Saudi Arabia doesn't have to be complicated once you understand the basics. Whether you're connecting with family, reaching out to business contacts, or making travel arrangements, knowing how to call Saudi Arabia correctly ensures your calls go through smoothly every time. Many people struggle with international dialing codes and proper formatting, leading to failed connections and frustration.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Saudi Arabia from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes to avoid, share essential phone etiquette tips for Saudi culture, and provide useful numbers you might need. By the end, you'll be confidently making international calls to Saudi Arabia without any hassle or confusion.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Saudi Arabia from abroad, follow this structure: Exit Code + 966 + Local Number (without leading zero)
The exit code varies by country, Saudi Arabia's country code is 966, and you must remove the first zero from local Saudi numbers when dialing internationally.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 966 (Saudi Arabia country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 966 (Saudi Arabia country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's specific code (commonly 00 for most countries).
Practical Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Riyadh Landline from USA:
Saudi number: 011 234 5678
Dial: 011-966-11-234-5678
Example 2 - Calling a Saudi Mobile from UK:
Saudi mobile: 050 123 4567
Dial: 00-966-50-123-4567
Example 3 - Calling a Jeddah Landline from Australia:
Saudi number: 012 345 6789
Dial: 0011-966-12-345-6789
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Saudi Arabian phone numbers begin with zero when dialing domestically. Always drop this leading zero when calling internationally. For example, if a Saudi mobile shows as 0501234567, you dial 966-50-123-4567 from abroad.
Mobile numbers in Saudi Arabia typically start with 05, while landlines vary by city (Riyadh: 011, Jeddah: 012, Dammam: 013). Remember to check your phone plan for international calling rates, or consider using VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype for more economical options when making frequent calls to Saudi Arabia.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Saudi Arabia, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Saudi phone numbers start with 0 domestically, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. For example, if the local number is 011-234-5678, dial +966-11-234-5678, not +966-011-234-5678.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Different countries have different exit codes (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most of Europe). Using the wrong one will cause connection failure. The "+" symbol works universally and replaces any exit code.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
+966 is Saudi Arabia's country code and must come first, followed by the city code (11 for Riyadh, 12 for Jeddah). Never reverse this order or omit the country code.
4. Incorrectly formatting mobile numbers
Saudi mobile numbers begin with 5 (after removing the 0). The correct format is +966-5X-XXX-XXXX, not +966-05X-XXX-XXXX.
5. Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes
While spaces and dashes help readability, inconsistent formatting can cause errors in some dialing systems. When in doubt, dial continuously: +966XXXXXXXXX.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Saudi Arabia, understanding local customs helps build positive relationships. Greetings are essential and typically begin with "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you), followed by inquiries about health and family before discussing business matters. Rushing into the main topic is considered impolite.
Business calls require formality, especially during initial contact. Use titles and surnames unless invited to do otherwise. However, personal calls among friends allow for more casual conversation. Building rapport takes precedence over efficiency, so expect longer conversations than you might in Western countries.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 1 PM, or after 4 PM when offices reopen following midday break. Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday prayers, and never call late at night unless it's urgent. During Ramadan, refrain from calling during fasting hours.
Voice messages are acceptable in business settings, but keep them concise and respectful. Always leave your contact information and state your purpose clearly. Many Saudis prefer WhatsApp voice notes for both personal and business communication, as this platform is widely used.
Gender considerations matter: men should exercise caution when calling women directly unless there's an established professional relationship. In conservative settings, communicating through a male family member may be more appropriate.
Patience and respect for these customs demonstrate cultural awareness and facilitate smoother communication in Saudi Arabian society.
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Emergency Numbers
In Saudi Arabia, the following emergency numbers are available 24/7:
- Police (General Emergency): 911
- Ambulance (Red Crescent): 997
- Fire Department: 998
- Traffic Accidents: 993
- Drug Control: 995
- Coastguard: 996
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout the kingdom. The nationwide emergency number 911 was introduced in 2017 to streamline emergency response, consolidating various services under one number similar to international standards.
English-speaking operators are typically available, particularly in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, though Arabic is the primary language. When calling, clearly state your emergency type and location. Keep your phone accessible as emergency services may call back for additional information. Response times vary depending on your location, with urban areas generally receiving faster assistance.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 905: Directory assistance for local phone numbers and addresses
- 904: International directory assistance
Operator Services
- 900: Local operator assistance
- 903: International operator for placing calls abroad
Tourist & Travel Services
- 937: Ministry of Tourism hotline for visitor information and complaints
- 8004720000: General tourist assistance line
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy through their published numbers for consular services, passport assistance, and emergency support.
Other Useful Numbers
- 940: Ministry of Commerce consumer protection
- 8001241222: Ministry of Health hotline
- 920000560: Saudi Railways customer service
- 966114656220: King Abdulaziz International Airport information
Keep these numbers saved for non-emergency situations requiring information, assistance, or official services during your stay.
Tips for Calling Saudi Arabia
When calling Saudi Arabia (UTC+3), timing is crucial for successful communication. The country doesn't observe daylight saving time, making time calculations consistent year-round.
Best Calling Times
For business calls, aim for Sunday through Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM local time—the standard Saudi workweek. Avoid calling on Fridays and Saturdays, the official weekend. During Ramadan, business hours typically shift to 10 AM to 3 PM, so adjust accordingly.
Strategic Scheduling
Always schedule business calls in advance. Saudi professionals appreciate formal arrangements and punctuality. Off-peak calling times (early morning or late evening) offer better connection rates and lower costs if using certain carriers.
Days to Avoid
Steer clear of major Islamic holidays, particularly Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, when most businesses close. Friday afternoons are reserved for prayers and family time.
Communication Tips
Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual to accommodate potential language barriers. Confirm important details via email afterward. Allow extra conversation time—Saudi business culture values relationship-building before diving into business matters. Keep emergency and customer service numbers handy, as these typically operate 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Saudi Arabia is +966. You must dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Saudi Arabia from anywhere in the world. This code identifies Saudi Arabia in the international telephone numbering system.
To dial Saudi Arabia from your cell phone, first dial + (or your country's international access code), then 966 (Saudi Arabia's country code), followed by the local number without the leading zero. For example, to call a Riyadh number, dial +966 11 XXX XXXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Saudi Arabian phone numbers when calling internationally. For example, if the local number is 011 234 5678, you would dial +966 11 234 5678, removing the initial zero from the area code.
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Important emergency numbers in Saudi Arabia include: 999 for Police, 997 for Ambulance and Emergency Medical Services, and 998 for Fire Department. These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone within Saudi Arabia for immediate emergency assistance.
Yes, you can call Saudi Arabia directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Saudi Arabian phone number you wish to call, and connect instantly—no downloads or apps required for browser-based calling.
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