Ever tried calling a friend or business contact in Saudi Arabia only to be met with silence, confusion, or a hefty bill? Connecting with people in Saudi Arabia from the USA might seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're reaching out to family, solidifying international business deals, or exploring new opportunities, clear and affordable communication is essential for successful interactions and strong relationships. Incorrect dialing codes, unfamiliar time zones, and hidden charges can quickly turn a simple phone call into a frustrating experience.
Understanding the correct procedures for dialing international numbers, knowing how to leverage different calling options, and being aware of potential costs can save you time, money, and headaches. This guide aims to demystify the process, providing you with the knowledge you need to effortlessly connect with anyone in Saudi Arabia.
What are the area codes, costs, and best calling methods?
What's the Saudi Arabia country code when calling from the USA?
The country code for Saudi Arabia is +966. This code is essential when calling Saudi Arabia from the United States or any other country outside of Saudi Arabia.
To successfully call Saudi Arabia from the USA, you'll need to follow a specific dialing format. First, dial the exit code for the United States, which is 011. This code tells the US phone network that you're making an international call. Next, dial the Saudi Arabia country code, 966. After the country code, you'll need to dial the area code (usually one or two digits) and the local phone number in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the complete dialing sequence would look like this: 011 + 966 + [Area Code] + [Local Number]. For example, if you were calling a number in Riyadh with the area code 11 and the local number 1234567, you would dial 011966111234567. Be sure to double-check the area code for the specific region you are calling, as it can vary within Saudi Arabia. Consulting a directory or online resource can help you confirm the correct area code.How do I dial a Saudi Arabian mobile number from the US?
To call a Saudi Arabian mobile number from the US, you'll need to dial the US exit code (011), followed by Saudi Arabia's country code (966), then the mobile number itself, omitting the leading zero if present. So the format will be: 011-966-followed by the mobile number (without the initial zero).
When dialing internationally, understanding the correct codes is crucial. The US exit code, 011, tells the US phone system that you are making an international call. The country code, 966, directs the call to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabian mobile numbers typically start with a zero, but you need to drop this when calling from abroad. For example, if the Saudi Arabian mobile number is 05xxxxxxxx, you would dial 011-966-5xxxxxxxx. Keep in mind that international calling rates apply, and these can vary significantly depending on your phone carrier or service provider. It's always a good idea to check with your provider beforehand to understand the charges you'll incur. You might also consider using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services like Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice, which often offer cheaper international calling options. These services typically require an internet connection for both the caller and the recipient.What's the cheapest way to call Saudi Arabia from the USA?
The cheapest way to call Saudi Arabia from the USA is generally through internet-based calling apps that utilize Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, such as WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, or Google Voice, provided both the caller and recipient have these apps installed and a stable internet connection.
These VoIP services significantly reduce costs compared to traditional landline or mobile carriers because they bypass standard long-distance charges. Instead of paying per-minute fees levied by phone companies, you're essentially using your existing internet connection. If you're calling a landline or mobile number directly (i.e., not using an app-to-app call), consider using international calling apps like Rebtel or Vonage, which offer competitive rates for calls to Saudi Arabia. These apps often have prepaid plans or pay-as-you-go options, allowing you to control your spending. Before committing to any service, it's crucial to compare the per-minute rates and any associated fees, such as connection charges or monthly subscriptions. Many providers offer trial periods or small credit amounts to test the call quality and reliability to Saudi Arabia before you commit to a larger plan. Also, ensure that the person in Saudi Arabia has sufficient data or Wi-Fi access if you plan to use app-to-app calling, as they may incur data charges.Do I need to drop the leading zero when calling a Saudi number?
Yes, you need to drop the leading zero when calling a Saudi Arabian number from the USA. The '0' is a domestic prefix used only within Saudi Arabia.
When calling internationally, you must use the international dialing code for Saudi Arabia (+966) followed by the Saudi number without the initial zero. This tells the international phone network that you're trying to connect to a number within Saudi Arabia. If you include the leading zero, the call will likely fail because the international gateway will misinterpret the number. Therefore, the correct format for calling a Saudi number from the USA is: 011 (US exit code) + 966 (Saudi Arabia country code) + Saudi number (without the leading zero). For example, if the Saudi number is 05XXXXXXXX, you would dial 011 966 5XXXXXXXX. Remember to always verify you have the correct Saudi phone number to ensure your call connects to the intended recipient.What are the time zone differences between USA and Saudi Arabia?
The time zone difference between the USA and Saudi Arabia varies significantly depending on the specific location within the United States. Saudi Arabia observes Saudi Standard Time (AST), which is GMT+3 year-round. The continental United States spans multiple time zones, including Eastern (GMT-4 or GMT-5 depending on Daylight Saving Time), Central (GMT-5 or GMT-6), Mountain (GMT-6 or GMT-7), and Pacific (GMT-7 or GMT-8). Therefore, the time difference ranges from 7 to 12 hours, with Saudi Arabia being ahead of the USA.
To illustrate the difference, when Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) is in effect (March to November), Saudi Arabia is 7 hours ahead. For example, if it's 2:00 PM EDT in New York, it would be 9:00 PM AST in Riyadh. During Eastern Standard Time (EST) (November to March), the difference increases to 8 hours. This variance continues across all US time zones. It's essential to know the specific time zone the person you are calling is in when determining the correct time to call Saudi Arabia. Consider this when planning your call: the best time to call Saudi Arabia from the USA would generally be during Saudi Arabia's late afternoon or early evening to catch people during their typical working hours or early evening. Remember to account for the specific US time zone and whether Daylight Saving Time is in effect when making the calculation. For example, if someone is on the US West Coast and it's 9:00 AM Pacific Standard Time (PST), it would be 7:00 PM AST in Saudi Arabia, which might be a reasonable time to call.Are there any VoIP services I can use to call Saudi Arabia cheaply?
Yes, several VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services offer significantly cheaper calls to Saudi Arabia compared to traditional phone companies. These services leverage internet connectivity to route calls, reducing costs and offering competitive rates, often with a variety of plans to suit different calling needs.
Popular VoIP providers like Google Voice, Skype, Vonage, and Viber offer international calling plans or pay-as-you-go options that often feature lower per-minute rates for calls to Saudi Arabia than standard landlines or mobile carriers. Furthermore, these services frequently offer additional features such as call recording, voicemail, and integration with other communication platforms. It's essential to compare the rates and features of different providers to find the best fit for your calling frequency and budget. Some providers also offer mobile apps, allowing you to make calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data, further reducing costs, especially when traveling.
When choosing a VoIP service for calls to Saudi Arabia, consider factors beyond just the per-minute rate. Look into the call quality, reliability, and any potential setup or monthly fees. Some services may have hidden charges or require a subscription even if you primarily use a pay-as-you-go option. Also, check if the service offers local Saudi Arabian phone numbers, which can be beneficial if you need to receive calls from people in Saudi Arabia. Reading reviews and comparing multiple services is a good way to ensure you're getting the best value and quality for your international calls.
What's the exit code for calling internationally from the USA?
The exit code for calling internationally from the USA is 011. This code tells the US telephone network that you are about to dial a number outside of the country.
To call Saudi Arabia from the USA, you'll need to dial in a specific sequence. This sequence always starts with the exit code, followed by the country code for Saudi Arabia, and then the local Saudi Arabian phone number. The full format is: 011 + 966 + [Saudi Arabian phone number]. Breaking down the process for calling Saudi Arabia: first, dial 011, which signals that you are making an international call from the USA. Next, dial 966, which is the country code for Saudi Arabia. Finally, enter the remaining digits of the Saudi Arabian phone number, ensuring you include the area code if it is required. Remember to remove any leading zeros from the Saudi Arabian number that might be present when dialing locally within Saudi Arabia. Failing to use the correct exit code or country code will result in your call not going through.Alright, you're all set to connect with friends, family, or business contacts in Saudi Arabia! Hopefully, this guide has made the process simple and straightforward. Thanks for reading, and we hope you'll come back for more helpful tips and tricks soon!