Roaming in Iran: Welcome SMS received but no WhatsApp SMS/call

Mary8863 · ‎20-02-2026

Hello EE Community:/ Moderators, I have an EE SIM (UK number +44...) and I'm currently roaming in Iran (outside EU/UK). Roaming is active: I received the welcome SMS from EE with costs (£1.80/min calls, 60p texts, etc.) and my balance is £15 I can receive some SMS (e.g., verification code . from Rebtel worked) Data roaming works fine.. But no inbound SMS or calls from WhatsApp verification (tried both Text and Call me options multiple times, no code arrives, no robocall rings). I've tried: Data Roaming on, manual network selection (IranCell/MCI), restart, airplane mode toggle, Do Not Disturb off, WiFi Calling off. Called EE support (+44 7953 966 250) but the agent didn't understand the issue or couldn't fix it. WhatsApp support via +44 7483 961 600 also no reply after 3+ days (message not even delivered/read). Plan type: [Pay Monthly"] " I need full international inbound SMS and voice calls enabled (including Premium Rate, Call Abroad, etc.) for verification codes. This worked before but stopped recently. Can moderators or staff please check my account and enable the missing settings, or escalate to technical team?

bristolian · ‎20-02-2026

Data roaming means using mobile data whilst roaming, it has no impact on text or voice services.

Can you receive other text messages? Can you receive other calls? Are both Iranian networks affected, or just one specific one?

Have you been able to receive calls or texts, the welcome message aside, whilst in Iran on this trip? Can you be more specific about your statement "this worked before but stopped recently" - is "before" on this trip or a previous one? When exactly is "recently"?

XRaySpeX · ‎20-02-2026

You're on PAYG. Where did you get your SIM? Had you used that PAYG SIM for making calls or texts in UK before going abroad? To be used abroad EE PAYG SIMs need 1st activating on EE's home UK network. If it wasn't you can't now use it until you return to UK.

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Northerner · ‎20-02-2026

Hi @Mary8863

It might be blocked by the state as only a few weeks back they disabled all mobile networks, foreign network access might be blocked.

Thanks

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