CALLING STATUS
Viber in Saudi Arabia
Calls Blocked, Messaging Works
Viber messaging functions in Saudi Arabia, but VoIP voice and video calls are blocked by local carriers under telecom licensing restrictions. Users can send text and media but cannot make or receive calls over Viber.
Last verified: July 2026
Viber messaging works, but calls are blocked by carriers.
FEATURE BREAKDOWN
Current Status in Saudi Arabia
Viber's messaging works reliably, but VoIP calling is restricted.
- Blocked
Voice Calls
Viber voice calls are blocked by Saudi carriers under CITC VoIP licensing rules. Calls will not connect regardless of network type or location within the country.
- Blocked
Video Calls
Video calling over Viber is blocked by the same carrier-level restrictions that prevent voice calls. Users cannot initiate or receive video calls.
- Works
Messaging
Text messages, photos, and media files send and receive without restriction. Messaging is the primary use case for Viber users in Saudi Arabia.
- Not Supported
PSTN Calling
Viber does not offer direct calling to landlines or mobile numbers outside the app. This feature is not available in any region.
THE MECHANISM
Why Viber Calls Are Blocked
Saudi Arabia restricts VoIP calling under telecom licensing rules.
VoIP Licensing Restrictions
The Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) restricts VoIP services to licensed operators. Viber and similar apps are not licensed to provide calling services, so carriers block VoIP traffic at the network level.
Carrier-Level Enforcement
All major Saudi carriers (STC, Mobily, Zain) enforce the same VoIP block. The restriction applies to all networks—mobile, WiFi, and fixed broadband—making it impossible to bypass within the country.
Messaging Exception
Text and media messaging do not fall under VoIP licensing rules, so carriers allow Viber messaging to function. This distinction is common across the Gulf region.
OTHER OPTIONS
Alternatives People Try
Users in Saudi Arabia explore messaging apps, local services, and calling solutions.
WhatsApp
partialMessaging works fully; voice and video calls are also blocked by carriers under the same VoIP restrictions.
Telegram
partialMessaging works; calling features are blocked. Telegram is popular for secure messaging but offers no calling alternative.
Botim
yesLicensed local app offering calling and messaging. Botim is approved by CITC and works reliably for voice and video calls.
VPN + Viber
partialVPNs may allow Viber calls when routed outside Saudi Arabia, but using VPNs to bypass telecom restrictions carries legal and security risks.
Sayfone
yesRoutes calls over PSTN to any landline or mobile in Saudi Arabia. Works without app on recipient's end and is unaffected by VoIP blocks.
VPN WORKAROUNDS
Can You Use a VPN to Unblock Viber Calls?
VPNs may bypass VoIP blocks but carry significant risks.
Some users attempt to use VPNs to route Viber calls outside Saudi Arabia's network, which may technically allow calls to connect. However, this approach has serious drawbacks and legal implications.
VPNs are not a safe or practical solution. Sayfone offers a legal, reliable alternative that works without VPN or app restrictions.
Using a VPN on Your End
High RiskRouting your traffic through a VPN may allow Viber calls to work, but VPN use to bypass telecom restrictions is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can result in fines or service termination.
Asking the Other Person to Use a VPN
ImpracticalEven if both parties use a VPN, the call quality is often poor due to routing delays. This is not a reliable solution for regular communication.
Sayfone: No VPN Needed
Legal & ReliableSayfone routes calls over PSTN, which is not subject to VoIP blocks. Calls work reliably without VPN, legal risk, or quality degradation.
THE BETTER WAY
Sayfone: Call Saudi Arabia Reliably
Sayfone routes calls over PSTN, bypassing VoIP blocks entirely.
- Works in VoIP shutdowns and carrier restrictions—no app blocks apply.
- Reach any landline or mobile in Saudi Arabia without requiring the recipient to have an app.
- Call quality is HD voice over standard PSTN routing—no degradation from VPN or app limitations.
- Costs just $0.28 per minute to Saudi Arabia, competitive with international calling rates.
- No VPN needed, no legal risk, no account setup required on the recipient's end.
Active call
Calling Saudi Arabia
+966 (***) ***-****
Quality
HD Voice
Latency
Standard PSTN routing
Route
Direct PSTN connection
Cost so far
$0.28
FEATURE COMPARISON
How Sayfone Compares
Sayfone vs. Viber and WhatsApp for calling Saudi Arabia.
Viber
Viber messaging works, but calling is blocked by carriers under VoIP licensing restrictions.
WhatsApp messaging works, but calling is blocked by the same carrier-level VoIP restrictions.
Sayfone
Sayfone routes over PSTN, unaffected by VoIP blocks. Call any number in Saudi Arabia without requiring the recipient to have an app.
DIASPORA ROUTES
Call Saudi Arabia From Anywhere
Sayfone rates to Saudi Arabia from major diaspora hubs.
LEARN MORE
Related Guides
Explore calling rates, restrictions, and other apps for Saudi Arabia.
Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Viber and calling Saudi Arabia.
Still have questions? Contact our support team for help.
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Crystal-clear PSTN calls to Saudi Arabia from your browser — no VPN, no blocked apps, no contract.
- Pay as you go
- HD voice quality
- Works when apps don't
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