Calling Saudi Arabia from India is easier than you might think. Whether you want to connect with family, friends, or business contacts, knowing the right dialing codes and options can save you time and money. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to make your international call without hassle.
You’ll also discover useful tips on choosing the best calling methods, understanding costs, and avoiding common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident making calls to Saudi Arabia anytime you want.
Understanding International Calling Basics
Before you dial, it’s important to understand how international calls work. When you call Saudi Arabia from India, you need to use specific codes to connect your call across countries.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Exit Code (India): This is the code you dial to leave India’s phone network. For India, it’s 00.
- Country Code (Saudi Arabia): Every country has a unique code. Saudi Arabia’s is 966.
- Area Code: This is the code for the city or region in Saudi Arabia you want to call. It usually starts with a zero (0), but you drop this zero when dialing internationally.
- Local Number: The phone number of the person or business you want to reach.
Putting it all together, the format looks like this:
00 + 966 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number
For example, if you want to call Riyadh and the local number is 1234567, and Riyadh’s area code is 011, you dial:
00 966 11 1234567
Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Saudi Arabia from India
Let’s break down the process into simple steps you can follow every time.
Step 1: Dial India’s Exit Code
Start by dialing 00. This tells your phone provider you want to make an international call.
Step 2: Enter Saudi Arabia’s Country Code
Next, dial 966. This connects your call to Saudi Arabia’s phone network.
Step 3: Dial the Area Code (Without the Leading Zero)
Saudi Arabian area codes start with a zero, but you must leave it out when calling from abroad. For example:
- Riyadh: 011 → dial 11
- Jeddah: 012 → dial 12
- Dammam: 013 → dial 13
Step 4: Dial the Local Number
Finally, enter the local phone number you want to reach.
Example Call
To call a number in Jeddah with the local number 7654321, you would dial:
00 966 12 7654321
Make sure to check the number carefully before calling.
Using Mobile Phones to Call Saudi Arabia
Calling Saudi Arabia from your mobile phone in India follows the same format but with a slight difference.
Instead of dialing 00 as the exit code, you can use the plus sign +. This plus sign automatically represents the international exit code.
So, on your mobile, you would dial:
+966 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number
For example:
+966 11 1234567
Using the plus sign is easier and works on almost all smartphones.
Alternative Ways to Call Saudi Arabia from India
Besides traditional phone calls, you have other options that might save you money or improve call quality.
1. Internet Calling Apps
Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Google Meet, and Zoom allow you to call Saudi Arabia over the internet. You only need a good internet connection.
- WhatsApp: Free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users.
- Skype: Offers calls to phones and mobiles, sometimes at low rates.
- Google Meet/Zoom: Great for video calls and group meetings.
2. Calling Cards
International calling cards can reduce costs. You buy a card with a set amount of credit and dial a local access number before entering the Saudi number.
- Look for cards that specifically mention Saudi Arabia.
- Compare rates to find the best deal.
3. VoIP Services
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Vonage or RingCentral offer business-grade calling solutions. These are useful if you call Saudi Arabia frequently for work.
Tips to Save Money When Calling Saudi Arabia
International calls can get expensive, but you can keep costs low by following these tips:
- Use Wi-Fi Calling: Apps like WhatsApp use Wi-Fi, so you avoid mobile charges.
- Check Your Mobile Plan: Some Indian carriers offer international calling packs with discounted rates.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Calling during off-peak hours can sometimes reduce costs.
- Use Calling Cards: They often offer better rates than direct dialing.
- Compare Providers: Different telecom companies have different rates for Saudi Arabia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling Saudi Arabia
To make sure your call goes through smoothly, avoid these common errors:
- Dialing the Area Code with the Leading Zero: Always drop the zero when calling internationally.
- Forgetting the Exit Code or Plus Sign: Without this, your call won’t connect.
- Using the Wrong Country Code: Saudi Arabia’s code is 966, not 968 or others.
- Not Checking Number Format: Saudi numbers can be 7 to 9 digits long; verify before calling.
- Ignoring Time Zone Differences: Saudi Arabia is 2.5 hours behind India, so call at appropriate times.
Understanding Saudi Arabia’s Phone Number Structure
Saudi Arabia’s phone numbers have a specific format that helps you identify the type of number you’re calling.
- Landline Numbers: Usually start with area codes like 11 (Riyadh), 12 (Jeddah), or 13 (Dammam).
- Mobile Numbers: Begin with 5, followed by 8 digits (e.g., 5XXXXXXXX).
- Toll-Free Numbers: Start with 800.
When calling mobile numbers from India, use the same international format:
00 966 5XXXXXXXX
or on mobile:
+966 5XXXXXXXX
Checking Time Zones Before Calling
Saudi Arabia is in the Arabian Standard Time zone (UTC +3). India is in Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30). This means Saudi Arabia is 2 hours and 30 minutes behind India.
If it’s 8:00 PM in India, it’s 5:30 PM in Saudi Arabia. Calling during business hours (9 AM to 6 PM Saudi time) is best to reach offices or businesses.
Troubleshooting Call Issues
If your call to Saudi Arabia doesn’t connect, try these fixes:
- Check the Number: Make sure you have the correct country and area codes.
- Use the Plus Sign on Mobile: Replace 00 with + for easier dialing.
- Restart Your Phone: Sometimes network glitches cause problems.
- Contact Your Provider: Ask if international calling is enabled on your plan.
- Try Alternative Apps: Use WhatsApp or Skype if regular calls fail.
Summary Table: Dialing Codes for Saudi Arabia from India
| Step | Code/Example | Notes |
| Exit Code (India) | 00 or + | Use 00 on landline, + on mobile |
| Country Code | 966 | Saudi Arabia’s country code |
| Area Code (Riyadh) | 11 (drop leading 0) | Riyadh area code |
| Area Code (Jeddah) | 12 | Jeddah area code |
| Area Code (Dammam) | 13 | Dammam area code |
| Mobile Numbers | 5XXXXXXXX | Start with 5, 9 digits total |
| Example Number | 00 966 11 1234567 | Call Riyadh landline |
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to call Saudi Arabia from India. By using the correct exit code, country code, and area code, your calls will connect smoothly. Whether you use a landline, mobile phone, or internet apps, you have plenty of options to stay in touch.
Remember to check the time difference and choose the most cost-effective calling method. With these tips, you can confidently reach your contacts in Saudi Arabia anytime you want.
FAQs
How much does it cost to call Saudi Arabia from India?
Costs vary by provider and calling method. Using internet apps like WhatsApp is free, while direct calls via mobile or landline can cost more. Check your carrier’s international rates or use calling cards for cheaper options.
Can I call Saudi Arabia from my mobile without adding the exit code?
Yes, on mobile phones you can use the plus sign (+) instead of the exit code 00. For example, dial +966 followed by the area code and number.
What is the time difference between India and Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is 2 hours and 30 minutes behind India. Plan your calls accordingly to avoid calling too early or late.
Do I need to drop the zero in the area code when calling Saudi Arabia?
Yes, always drop the leading zero in the area code when dialing from India. For example, 011 becomes 11.
Are there any apps recommended for calling Saudi Arabia cheaply?
WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Meet are popular apps for free or low-cost calls to Saudi Arabia, especially if both parties have internet access.
