How to Call India from Saudi Arabia (Complete Guide 2025)
Bypass WhatsApp Restrictions & Stay Connected with Family Back Home
📖 16 min read · Updated October 27, 2025
Living in Saudi Arabia and trying to call family in India? You've probably noticed that WhatsApp calling doesn't work. That's because Saudi Arabia blocks WhatsApp voice and video calls, along with other internet calling services. This can be frustrating when you just want to talk to loved ones back home.
But don't worry—there are several ways to call India from Saudi Arabia that actually work. The most reliable solution is using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access WhatsApp normally. You can also use eSIM services when visiting India, or try alternative calling apps that aren't blocked.
In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to call India from Saudi Arabia. You'll learn which methods work best, how to set them up step-by-step, and what each option costs. Let's get you connected with your family.
📑 Quick Navigation
Why WhatsApp Doesn't Work in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia blocks WhatsApp voice and video calls as part of its telecommunications regulations. Regular WhatsApp messages still work fine, but when you try to make a voice or video call, it simply won't connect. This affects millions of expats who rely on WhatsApp to stay in touch with family.
⚠️ What's Blocked in Saudi Arabia
Blocked: WhatsApp calling, Skype calls, FaceTime, Viber calls, and most internet calling apps
Still works: WhatsApp text messages, regular phone calls (expensive), and some alternatives
The good news is that you can bypass these restrictions legally using a VPN. A VPN routes your internet connection through another country, making it look like you're not in Saudi Arabia. This lets you use WhatsApp calling just like you would anywhere else.
Quick Comparison: All Methods at a Glance
Here's how the different methods compare for calling India from Saudi Arabia. Each has its own benefits depending on your situation.
| Method | Best For | Monthly Cost | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN + WhatsApp | Living in Saudi Arabia | From $3.39/mo | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Airalo eSIM | Traveling to India | Pay per trip | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Botim | Quick calls without VPN | ~$7/mo | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| C'Me | Alternative to Botim | ~$6/mo | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Regular Phone | Emergency only | $0.50-2/min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Solution 1: Use NordVPN to Access WhatsApp (Most Reliable)
The best way to call India from Saudi Arabia is using NordVPN with WhatsApp. This combination gives you free calling (on WiFi or data) with excellent quality. Here's everything you need to know.
NordVPN + WhatsApp
Best SolutionBest for: Anyone living in or frequently visiting Saudi Arabia who wants reliable, affordable calling
How it works: NordVPN creates a secure connection that routes your internet through another country. When you turn on NordVPN, it makes websites and apps think you're somewhere else (like the USA or UK). This lets you use WhatsApp calling normally, just as if the restrictions didn't exist.
💡 Why NordVPN is Our Top Recommendation
NordVPN is specifically known for working reliably in restrictive countries. Unlike cheaper VPNs that get blocked, NordVPN consistently bypasses Saudi Arabia's restrictions. It's fast enough for clear voice and video calls, works on all your devices at once, and includes 24/7 customer support if you need help. Once you set it up (takes about 5 minutes), WhatsApp works perfectly every time.
Pros
- Makes WhatsApp calling work perfectly in Saudi Arabia
- After VPN cost, all calls are free on WiFi
- Excellent call quality (better than Botim or C'Me)
- Works on all devices—phone, tablet, computer
- Also lets you access other blocked services
- 30-day money-back guarantee to try risk-free
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription ($3.39-12.99/month)
- Adds one extra step (turning on VPN before calling)
- Uses slightly more battery than calling without VPN
Pricing: Plans start at $3.39/month with a 2-year plan. Month-to-month plans cost $12.99. All plans include unlimited data, work on 6 devices, and have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Our take: NordVPN is the best long-term solution if you live in Saudi Arabia. After paying for the VPN, all your WhatsApp calls are free—which saves you money compared to paid calling apps like Botim ($7/month) or expensive international phone rates. For detailed setup instructions with screenshots, check our complete NordVPN setup guide.
Get NordVPN Now →How Much Does This Solution Cost?
Let's compare the real monthly cost of NordVPN versus other options:
- NordVPN ($3.39/mo) + WhatsApp (free): Total $3.39/month for unlimited calling
- Botim alone: About $7/month for calling
- Regular phone calls: $0.50-2 per minute ($300-1,200 for 10 hours of calls!)
NordVPN actually saves you money while giving better call quality than alternatives. Learn more about cost comparisons in our guide to the cheapest ways to call India.
Solution 2: Get an eSIM When Traveling to India
If you frequently travel to India, an eSIM gives you a local Indian phone number and data. This means you can make calls at local rates instead of paying international fees.
Airalo eSIM
Best for TravelersBest for: Indian expats in Saudi Arabia who visit India regularly
How it works: Before or during your trip to India, you buy an eSIM plan through the Airalo app. This gives you a local Indian phone number that works the moment you land. You can make calls, use mobile data, and receive calls just like a local—all without needing to swap physical SIM cards.
Pros
- Get a real Indian phone number instantly
- Much cheaper than Saudi carrier's roaming fees
- Includes both calling minutes and mobile data
- No need to swap physical SIM cards
- Can keep your Saudi number active at the same time
Cons
- Only works when physically in India
- Requires eSIM-compatible phone (iPhone XS+, recent Android)
- Won't help you call India from Saudi Arabia
Pricing: India plans start at $4.50 for 1GB data + calling (7 days). Options go up to 20GB for longer trips. You only pay when traveling—no monthly fees.
Our take: Airalo is perfect for trips to India. It's much cheaper than your Saudi carrier's roaming charges and gives you a local number that family can call back. For help setting it up, see our guides: How to install eSIM on iPhone and How to install eSIM on Android.
Get Airalo eSIM for India →Solution 3: Alternative Apps That Work in Saudi Arabia
If you don't want to use a VPN, there are a few calling apps that are officially approved in Saudi Arabia. They're not as good as WhatsApp, but they work without any extra setup.
Botim (Most Popular Alternative)
Best for: Quick solution without VPN setup
Botim is the most widely used alternative calling app in Saudi Arabia and UAE. It's officially licensed, so it works without any restrictions.
Pros:
- Works immediately, no VPN needed
- Includes voice and video calling
- Officially approved in Saudi Arabia
- Good call quality
Cons:
- Costs about $7/month for unlimited calling
- Not as widely used as WhatsApp in India
- Both people need the app installed
- More expensive than VPN + WhatsApp
Pricing: Around 25-30 SAR per month (~$7 USD)
C'Me (Alternative Option)
Best for: Slightly cheaper alternative to Botim
C'Me is similar to Botim but typically costs a bit less. It's also officially licensed in Saudi Arabia.
Pros:
- Slightly cheaper than Botim (~$6/month)
- Works without VPN
- Decent call quality
Cons:
- Fewer people in India use it
- Interface not as user-friendly
- Still more expensive than VPN option
Regular Phone Calls (Emergency Backup)
Your Saudi phone can always call India directly, but it's very expensive—typically 0.50-2 SAR per minute ($0.13-0.53 USD). This is best saved for emergencies only. A one-hour call could cost 30-120 SAR ($8-32 USD).
Step-by-Step Setup Instructions
Here's exactly how to set up the most popular solution: NordVPN with WhatsApp. We've broken it down into simple steps that anyone can follow.
Setting Up NordVPN + WhatsApp (15 Minutes)
Step 1: Get NordVPN
- Go to NordVPN's website
- Choose a plan (2-year plan is best value at $3.39/month)
- Create an account with your email
- Complete the payment (remember, 30-day money-back guarantee)
Step 2: Install NordVPN on Your Phone
- Download NordVPN from App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android)
- Open the app and sign in with your account
- Grant permissions when asked (VPN configuration, notifications)
- The app will show a map with server locations
Step 3: Connect to a Server
- Tap the "Quick Connect" button in the app
- NordVPN will automatically choose the fastest server
- Wait for the connection (takes 5-10 seconds)
- You'll see "Connected" when it's working
- A VPN icon will appear in your phone's status bar
Step 4: Use WhatsApp Normally
- Keep NordVPN running in the background
- Open WhatsApp
- Make voice or video calls as usual
- They'll work perfectly now!
💡 Pro Tips for Best Performance
- Connect to nearby servers (UAE, UK, or USA) for fastest speeds
- Keep NordVPN running in the background—it auto-connects when you open your phone
- Turn on "Auto-connect" in NordVPN settings so you never forget
- If calls are choppy, try switching to a different server
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: WhatsApp still won't connect
- Make sure NordVPN shows "Connected" (not connecting or disconnected)
- Try disconnecting and reconnecting NordVPN
- Switch to a different server location
- Restart your phone with VPN connected
Problem: Slow or choppy calls
- Connect to a closer server (UAE or UK instead of USA)
- Use WiFi instead of mobile data if possible
- Close other apps running in the background
- Make sure you have good internet (at least 1-2 Mbps)
Problem: VPN disconnects frequently
- Turn on "Auto-reconnect" in NordVPN settings
- Switch connection protocol to "NordLynx" in settings
- Contact NordVPN support (they're very helpful)
📊 Cost Comparison: What You'll Actually Pay
Let's look at the real costs for different calling patterns over one year:
Light User (5 hours per month)
- NordVPN + WhatsApp: $41/year (2-year plan: $3.39/mo × 12)
- Botim: $84/year ($7/mo × 12)
- Regular phone: $480-960/year ($40-80/month at $0.50-2/min)
- Savings with NordVPN: $43-919/year
Moderate User (15 hours per month)
- NordVPN + WhatsApp: $41/year
- Botim: $84/year
- Regular phone: $1,440-2,880/year
- Savings with NordVPN: $43-2,839/year
Heavy User (40 hours per month)
- NordVPN + WhatsApp: $41/year
- Botim: $84/year
- Regular phone: $3,840-7,680/year
- Savings with NordVPN: $43-7,639/year
As you can see, NordVPN pays for itself very quickly. Even light users save money compared to Botim, and heavy users save thousands compared to regular phone calls.
🌍 Legal & Safety Considerations
Is using a VPN legal in Saudi Arabia? Here's what you need to know.
💡 VPN Use in Saudi Arabia
Using a VPN for personal communication (like calling family) is generally not prohibited. VPNs are commonly used by businesses and residents. However, Saudi Arabia's laws focus on preventing access to illegal content or activities that violate local regulations. Using a VPN simply to make voice calls to family is a normal practice for expats.
Best practices:
- Use VPNs only for legitimate personal communication
- Choose reputable VPN providers like NordVPN
- Don't use VPNs to access prohibited content
- Keep your VPN use for normal family calls
Many expats in Saudi Arabia and similar countries in the region use VPNs daily without issues. For more context about VPN usage in the region, see our guides on calling India from UAE and calling India from Qatar.
📑 Related Guides You Might Find Helpful
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WhatsApp work in Saudi Arabia?
WhatsApp text messaging works normally in Saudi Arabia, but WhatsApp voice and video calls are blocked. You can send and receive messages, photos, and documents without any issues. However, when you try to make a voice or video call, it won't connect. To make WhatsApp calls work, you need to use a VPN like NordVPN.
What is the best VPN for calling India from Saudi Arabia?
NordVPN is the best VPN for calling India from Saudi Arabia because it consistently bypasses Saudi restrictions, offers fast speeds for clear voice calls, and includes reliable 24/7 customer support. It works on all devices, connects automatically, and has a 30-day money-back guarantee. At $3.39 per month on long-term plans, it's also affordable compared to alternatives like Botim.
Is it legal to use VPN in Saudi Arabia?
Using a VPN for personal communication like calling family is a normal practice in Saudi Arabia. Many expats and residents use VPNs daily for legitimate purposes like staying in touch with loved ones. VPNs themselves are not illegal, though they should be used responsibly and only for lawful personal activities like making phone calls.
What calling apps work in Saudi Arabia without VPN?
Botim and C'Me are the main calling apps that work in Saudi Arabia without needing a VPN. Both are officially licensed and approved. Botim costs around $7 per month and is more popular, while C'Me is slightly cheaper at around $6 per month. However, both cost more than using NordVPN with WhatsApp, and not everyone in India has these apps installed.
How much does it cost to call India from Saudi Arabia?
Regular phone calls from Saudi Arabia to India cost between 0.50-2 SAR per minute, which is very expensive for long conversations. Using NordVPN with WhatsApp costs just $3.39 per month for unlimited calling on WiFi. Botim costs about $7 per month, and eSIMs for India travel start at $4.50 for a week-long plan.
Can I use FaceTime in Saudi Arabia?
No, FaceTime is blocked in Saudi Arabia just like WhatsApp calling. Even if both you and your family have iPhones, FaceTime calls won't connect. You need to use a VPN like NordVPN to access FaceTime, or use alternatives like Botim or C'Me that work without a VPN.
Do I need eSIM for calling India from Saudi Arabia?
No, you don't need an eSIM for calling India from Saudi Arabia. eSIMs like Airalo are only useful when you're physically traveling to India—they give you a local Indian number and data. For calling from Saudi Arabia, use a VPN with WhatsApp instead. eSIMs are a good addition if you frequently visit India and want to save on roaming charges.
Final Thoughts
Living in Saudi Arabia doesn't mean you have to lose touch with family in India. While WhatsApp calling is blocked, the solution is straightforward: use NordVPN to bypass the restrictions.
For just $3.39 per month, NordVPN gives you unlimited WhatsApp calling with excellent quality. It's cheaper than Botim ($7/month), much cheaper than regular phone calls ($0.50-2 per minute), and works better than most alternatives. Setup takes about 15 minutes, and then WhatsApp works perfectly every time you need to call home.
If you travel to India regularly, also consider getting Airalo eSIM for your trips. It saves you money on roaming charges and gives you a local Indian number that family can call back.
The best part? NordVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. If you're not happy with how it works, you get a full refund—no questions asked.
Thousands of Indian expats in Saudi Arabia use this exact setup to stay connected with their families. Stop paying expensive phone bills or monthly fees for inferior apps. Get NordVPN today and start calling India the smart way.
For more calling guides, check out our complete guide to calling India with all available methods compared.
