Power Sockets in Saudi Arabia: Type G, Voltage, Adapters
A short reference to electricity in Saudi Arabia: the standard three-pin type G socket, the usual 230 V at 60 Hz, the older 127 V supply, the difference between an adapter and a converter, what to bring for phones, laptops and hair dryers, and safety tips.
Power sockets in Saudi Arabia are easy to prepare for if you know the basics: the standard socket takes a three-pin type G plug, the usual voltage is 230 volts at 60 hertz, and most phone and laptop chargers work without a converter. This guide explains what to bring and what to check before plugging a device in.
ZiyaraGo is an independent information service. We checked the website of the Saudi standards body and technical references on 16 October 2026. Buildings may differ, so always read the label on your device and ask at the hotel if you are in doubt.
The socket and plug type
The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) publishes two plug and socket systems. The main one, SASO 2203, is a three-pin system for a 220-volt supply with a rated current of 13 amperes, based on the British standard BS 1363. This plug is known as type G: three rectangular pins and a fuse built into the plug.
If you are coming from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Singapore or Hong Kong, your plug already fits. Travellers from other countries need a type G adapter.
Voltage and frequency
Modern homes, hotels and offices in Saudi Arabia usually run on 230 volts at 60 hertz. Older buildings may still have a 127-volt supply, because the country is moving from the old 127 and 220-volt system to 230 and 400 volts. SASO describes a separate 127-volt system, SASO 2204, based on the American standard, and designed both systems so that a 127-volt plug cannot be inserted into a 220-volt socket and vice versa.
Check the voltage marked on your device. Most modern chargers for phones, tablets and laptops are marked "100–240 V", which means they work on both supplies.
Adapter or converter?
An adapter only changes the shape of the plug so that it fits the socket. A converter, or transformer, changes the voltage. If the device says 100–240 V, you only need an adapter. If it is a single-voltage 110–120 V appliance, such as some hair dryers and shavers, it needs a converter, or it is better left at home.
Hair dryers, kettles and irons draw a lot of power. Check the wattage and use a separate socket or the equipment the hotel provides.
What to bring
Bring one or two type G adapters, one of them with a built-in USB port if you are travelling with several devices, and keep the chargers you already have. A short extension lead with a surge protector from a known manufacturer helps in rooms with few sockets.
Adapters are sold at airports and electronics shops in Saudi Arabia, but it is easier to buy one at home before you travel. Choose a certified product and avoid adapters without markings.
Safety tips
SASO requires sockets and plugs to have an earth pin, sockets to have protective shutters, and a 220-volt plug to have a 13-ampere fuse; the organization also warns about counterfeit electrical products and overloaded sockets. Do not force a plug in, do not connect the pins with homemade adapters, and unplug a device if it gets hot.
An earth pin protects only if the building has earthing, so be careful with powerful appliances in older buildings and in bathrooms.
A quick checklist before you fly
Count the devices you will charge every evening and bring enough adapters, or one charger with several ports. Read the voltage on the label of each device. Leave single-voltage 110–120 V appliances at home unless you have a converter. Keep adapters and chargers in your hand luggage so you can charge your phone right after landing.
How we chose
We compiled this guide from the plug and socket standards published by the Saudi standards body, reference data on mains voltage and frequency and general technical advice, checked it on 16 October 2026 and set it out in our own words. The hotel can tell you what voltage your room has.
Tips
- Bring a type G adapter, or use your own plug if it is the British type.
- Look for "100–240 V" on chargers: then you need only an adapter.
- Leave 110–120 V hair dryers and shavers at home or bring a converter.
- Use certified adapters and do not overload a socket.
- Keep a charger and an adapter in your hand luggage.
Questions and answers
Which plug is used in Saudi Arabia?
The main system is the three-pin type G plug, based on the British standard BS 1363, with a rated current of 13 amperes and a 220-volt supply according to the Saudi standards body.
What is the voltage in Saudi Arabia?
The usual voltage is 230 volts at 60 hertz. Some older buildings may still have 127 volts, so check the label on your device and ask at the hotel.
Do I need a converter or just an adapter?
If the charger says 100–240 V, an adapter is enough. A single-voltage 110–120 V appliance needs a converter.
Will a British plug fit in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, a British type G plug fits the standard Saudi socket.
Where can I buy an adapter?
At airports and electronics shops, but it is easier to buy a certified adapter before your trip.
Can I use my hair dryer from home?
Only if it is rated for the local voltage. Single-voltage 110–120 V hair dryers need a converter, and many hotels provide a hair dryer.
Prepared with the help of AI and checked by the ZiyaraGo team. Editorial policy