Saudi Arabia’s internet infrastructure covers both urban and rural areas, offering connectivity across the Kingdom. However, service type and coverage quality can vary, especially in remote regions.
Here’s a breakdown of internet availability in major cities, remote areas, and tips on checking coverage maps to determine service options in your area.
Internet Availability in Major Cities
Riyadh
As the capital and largest city, Riyadh has extensive coverage from major internet service providers, including STC, Mobily, and Zain.
Residents have access to high-speed fiber-optic services, 4G and 5G mobile data, and DSL options, catering to diverse internet needs.
Jeddah
Known as the gateway to the Holy Cities, Jeddah offers comprehensive internet coverage with fiber-optic and mobile data services widely accessible.
Major internet service providers offer various package options, making it easy for residents to find a plan that meets their needs.
Dammam
This city, along with the Eastern Province, has robust internet infrastructure with a focus on fiber-optic connectivity in urban areas.
Mobile data services, including 5G, are widely available, enhancing speed and reliability.
Mecca and Medina
As globally significant pilgrimage cities, Mecca and Medina have strong internet coverage for both residents and visitors.
Fiber-optic internet and high-speed mobile data are accessible in most areas, providing reliable connectivity.
Rural and Remote Areas
In Saudi Arabia’s rural and remote areas, internet options are more limited. Fiber-optic and DSL services may not reach these areas, but 4G and increasingly 5G mobile data services provide satisfactory connectivity for daily needs. Where terrestrial internet options are unavailable, satellite internet offers essential connectivity, even in the most isolated regions.
How to Check Coverage Maps
Most major internet service providers in Saudi Arabia offer coverage maps on their websites, enabling users to check service availability by entering a location or viewing detailed maps of areas with specific coverage types (e.g., fiber, DSL, mobile).
STC
The STC website has an interactive coverage map for fiber and mobile data services, allowing you to verify coverage in specific areas.
Mobily and Zain
Both providers offer tools to check 4G, 5G, and fiber availability based on location.
CITC Website
The Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) provides resources for users to verify coverage and find the best internet options in their region.
Checking coverage maps before selecting a plan can help you identify which internet service providers and service types are available in your area, ensuring an informed decision based on the options accessible to you.