Understanding EE Roaming in Spain

For EE customers planning a visit to Spain, understanding the specifics of roaming is crucial for maintaining connectivity without incurring excessive charges. EE's approach to roaming in EU and EEA countries, including Spain, has evolved, moving away from the previous 'Roam Like at Home' policy for many customers. This means that while using your EE phone in Spain is generally possible, the exact terms, data allowances, and potential costs depend significantly on your specific EE plan or contract type and when you joined or upgraded.

It is vital to check your current plan's roaming status before travelling. Different plans have different rules regarding data usage, calls, and texts when abroad. This guide aims to clarify the general principles and directs you to the precise information you need to confirm for your individual circumstances to ensure you can use your EE device effectively throughout your Spanish adventure.

  • EE roaming in Spain is subject to your specific plan terms.
  • Recent changes may affect data allowances and charges.
  • Always verify your entitlement before travelling.
  • EE offers ways to manage costs for EU roaming.

The landscape of mobile roaming within the EU has shifted. While many providers, including EE, continue to offer services in Spain, the days of completely free, unlimited roaming mirroring your UK allowance are not guaranteed for everyone. EE has introduced policies that may apply fair usage caps or charge for certain usage types, especially for customers who joined or upgraded their plans after a specific date. Understanding these nuances is the first step to a stress-free trip.

The key differentiator for EE roaming in Spain lies in your contract date. Customers on older plans might still benefit from inclusive roaming, whereas newer contracts often have specific allowances or require the purchase of a 'Roam Abroad Pass' to avoid out-of-bundle charges. This distinction is paramount; simply assuming your UK allowance will cover your Spanish usage could lead to unexpected bills upon your return.

For users of EE PAY AS YOU GO, the rules also differ. Typically, PAYG customers will need to purchase a pack that includes roaming allowances for EU destinations like Spain. Without an appropriate pack, standard rates will apply, which are considerably higher than UK rates. Therefore, preparing your PAYG account with a suitable EU roaming pack before departing is a necessary step.

This article will break down what you need to know, from checking your eligibility to understanding potential charges and how to manage your usage effectively. The objective is to ensure your EE mobile experience in Spain is as seamless and cost-effective as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about your phone bill.

What to Check Before You Travel

The most critical action before travelling to Spain with your EE phone is to verify precisely what your current plan covers. EE's policy often categorises customers based on their contract start or upgrade date. Customers who joined or upgraded before a certain date might have different roaming entitlements compared to those on more recent contracts. This date is usually communicated by EE and can be found within your account details.

For those on plans that do not include free roaming, EE offers 'Roam Abroad Passes'. These passes can be purchased to cover your usage in Spain for a set period, often offering a bundle of data, minutes, and texts. Understanding the cost and duration of these passes, and whether they align with your expected usage, is vital. Comparing the cost of a pass against potential out-of-bundle charges based on EE's standard rates for Spain is a prudent exercise.

Data usage is frequently the primary concern for travellers. If your plan includes a data allowance for Spain, it's essential to know the exact amount. Some plans might have a fair usage limit, meaning that after a certain threshold, data speeds could be reduced, or charges may apply. For PAY AS YOU GO customers, ensuring you have purchased an EU/UK pack that explicitly states it covers Spain is non-negotiable to avoid hefty charges.

Furthermore, understand the rates for calls and texts. If you plan to call UK numbers while in Spain, or Spanish numbers, the charges can vary. EE usually provides clear guidance on these rates, which are often different for calls to different countries. If your Roam Abroad Pass doesn't cover all your communication needs, knowing these individual rates is important for managing your expenditure.

EE Roaming Allowances for Spain

The data, minute, and text allowances available to you when using EE roaming in Spain are entirely dependent on your specific mobile plan. EE has implemented different structures based on contract types and dates. It is not uncommon for newer plans to have a specific data cap for EU roaming, often referred to as an 'EU Roaming Cap' or similar, which is typically less than your full UK data allowance. Once this cap is reached, you may incur charges unless you have purchased an additional data add-on or a Roam Abroad Pass.

For instance, a customer on a newer EE contract might find their roaming data allowance in Spain is capped at a certain gigabyte amount per billing cycle. This cap is often calculated based on a fair usage policy to prevent excessive use. If your travel plans involve heavy data usage, such as streaming videos or frequent video calls, it is imperative to understand this specific data allowance. You might need to consider purchasing a larger Roam Abroad Pass or a data top-up specifically designed for EU travel.

Calls and texts are also part of the allowance structure. Generally, calls and texts made to UK numbers from Spain are often included within your allowance or charged at a reduced rate, particularly if you have a Roam Abroad Pass. However, calls made to local Spanish numbers or numbers in other countries may be subject to different charges. Always check the specific terms for calls, as these can differ from the rates for texts and data.

EE PAY AS YOU GO customers typically need to purchase a 'Pack'. These Packs include a set amount of data, minutes, and texts, and crucially, specify if they include EU roaming. A standard UK Pack might not automatically cover Spain, requiring customers to opt for an EU Roaming Pack or a specific add-on. These packs are usually valid for a specific duration, such as 30 days, and once expired, you revert to standard PAYG rates unless you purchase another pack.

How to Check Your Roaming Status with EE

Verifying your EE roaming status for Spain is a straightforward process, but it requires active engagement with your EE account or customer support. The most direct method is usually through your My EE account online or the My EE mobile app. Once logged in, navigate to the section detailing your plan or account settings. Here, you should find information regarding your current roaming entitlements, any applicable EU data caps, and details about Roam Abroad Passes.

If the app or online portal is unclear, contacting EE's customer service directly is the next best step. You can typically do this by calling their UK helpline from your mobile phone or another number provided by EE. Be prepared to provide your account details or mobile number for verification. The customer service representative can then inform you precisely what your plan allows for in Spain and what options are available if your current plan is not suitable.

For EE PAY AS YOU GO users, checking your remaining allowances and eligibility for roaming often involves dialling a specific shortcode or texting a keyword to a designated number. EE's website or your PAYG information pack will detail these methods. Often, sending a text like 'ROAM' to 150 can provide a summary of your current Pack status and whether it includes EU roaming. Understanding your Pack's expiry date is also important to avoid reverting to expensive out-of-bundle rates.

Crucially, do not rely on assumptions or information from previous trips. Mobile network policies, especially regarding roaming, can change. EE's 'Roam Like at Home' policy had specific terms, and subsequent changes affect how customers use their phones abroad. Always confirm your current status and entitlements shortly before your departure to avoid any surprises.

EE Roaming Charges in Spain: What to Expect

The prospect of unexpected charges when roaming in Spain is a common concern for EE customers. While Spain is within the EU, EE's policies mean that not all usage is automatically covered by your UK allowance, especially for customers on newer contracts. Understanding the potential costs for data, calls, and texts is paramount to managing your expenditure effectively.

For customers whose plans include EU roaming, there is often a fair usage data cap. For example, EE might set a limit of 50GB of data per billing cycle for roaming in EU countries. If you exceed this allowance, you will typically be charged for the additional data used. EE's standard out-of-bundle data rates for EU roaming can be significant, so it's advisable to monitor your usage closely.

If your plan does not include any free EU roaming, or if your allowance is insufficient, you will be subject to standard roaming rates. EE offers 'Roam Abroad Passes' designed to mitigate these costs. These passes provide a set amount of data, minutes, and texts for a specific duration (e.g., 7 or 30 days) for a fixed price. Purchasing one of these passes before you travel is often the most cost-effective solution if your plan isn't inclusive. Without a pass, every megabyte of data, minute of call, and text message sent could incur individual charges.

For EE PAY AS YOU GO users, charges apply if you do not have an active EU Roaming Pack. Standard PAYG rates for roaming in the EU apply, which can be very high. It is therefore essential to ensure you have purchased and activated an appropriate EU Roaming Pack before you leave the UK. These packs bundle usage at a much more affordable rate compared to standard PAYG charges.

Understanding Roam Abroad Passes

EE's Roam Abroad Passes are specifically designed to provide customers with a predictable cost for using their mobile phone in EU countries like Spain. These passes essentially offer a bundle of services – data, calls, and texts – for a set period, after which you can choose to purchase another pass or revert to your standard plan's rates (which may include charges if roaming is not included).

The passes typically come in different durations, such as 7-day or 30-day options. The amount of data included can vary, so it's important to choose a pass that aligns with your expected data consumption. For instance, if you anticipate needing a substantial amount of data for navigation, social media, and staying in touch, opting for a pass with a higher data allowance is sensible. EE will specify if calls and texts to UK numbers are included and if there are any restrictions on calling non-UK numbers.

The cost of these passes is usually fixed, offering transparency about your potential roaming expenses. It's crucial to compare the cost of the Roam Abroad Pass against the potential out-of-bundle charges you might incur if you were to use your phone in Spain without one. For many, especially those on plans with limited or no EU roaming benefits, a pass represents the most economical way to stay connected.

Purchasing a Roam Abroad Pass is generally done through your My EE account or by contacting EE customer services. It is advisable to arrange this before you travel to ensure seamless activation upon arrival in Spain, although some passes can be purchased while already abroad. Ensure you understand the exact terms, including any data caps within the pass and the expiry date, to maximise its benefit.

If you are an EE PAY AS YOU GO customer, the equivalent of a 'Roam Abroad Pass' is an EU Roaming Pack. These packs also offer a bundle of data, minutes, and texts for a set period, providing a cost-effective way to roam in Spain. Ensure you select an 'EU Roaming Pack' and not a standard UK pack, as the latter may not include roaming benefits.

Data Usage and Management in Spain

Managing your data usage effectively is paramount when using EE roaming in Spain, particularly if your plan has specific EU data allowances or caps. The convenience of constant connectivity can easily lead to exceeding limits, resulting in unexpected charges or reduced speeds. Understanding your allowance and employing smart data management strategies will ensure you stay connected without breaking the bank.

The first step is to know your specific EU data allowance. As mentioned, EE often applies a capped amount for roaming data in Spain on newer plans. This cap might be, for example, 50GB per billing cycle. If your UK plan offers 100GB, this implies you will only get 50GB for use in Spain, and any data beyond that will be charged at standard EU roaming rates unless you have a Roam Abroad Pass with a higher allowance.

Monitor your data consumption diligently. Most smartphones have built-in data usage trackers that can help you keep an eye on how much data you're using. You can set these trackers to alert you when you approach your allowance limit. The My EE app or website is also an excellent resource for real-time usage information, allowing you to see how much of your roaming allowance you have used and how much you have remaining.

To conserve data, consider enabling Wi-Fi whenever available. Hotels, cafes, and public spaces in Spain often offer free Wi-Fi. Connect to these networks for tasks that require significant data, such as downloading maps, streaming video, or uploading large files. When not on Wi-Fi, be mindful of background data usage; many apps consume data even when not actively in use. You can restrict background data usage for specific apps within your phone's settings.

Tips for Minimising Data Costs

To further minimise your data costs while roaming with EE in Spain, adopt several proactive habits. Before you travel, download offline maps for your destinations in Spain using apps like Google Maps or Citymapper. This means you won't need to use mobile data for navigation. Similarly, download music playlists, podcasts, and movies over Wi-Fi before you leave the UK or when you have access to free Wi-Fi in Spain.

Be cautious with streaming services. Watching videos or listening to music for extended periods can consume data rapidly. If you must stream, try to do so on Wi-Fi networks where possible. Adjusting the video quality on streaming apps to a lower setting can also significantly reduce data consumption.

Another tip is to disable automatic app updates and set them to update only when connected to Wi-Fi. Many apps are configured to update automatically, which can use a substantial amount of data without your direct action. Check your app store settings (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iOS) and adjust these preferences.

Consider purchasing a Roam Abroad Pass or an EU Roaming Pack if you anticipate heavy data usage. These passes offer a fixed price for a generous data allowance, providing peace of mind and preventing unexpectedly high bills. Always compare the cost of the pass to the potential out-of-bundle charges based on EE's advertised rates for Spain. For EE PAY AS YOU GO, an EU Roaming Pack is the essential purchase if data is a priority.

Finally, if you find yourself running out of data on a Roam Abroad Pass or your plan's allowance, check if EE offers data add-ons for EU roaming. These can sometimes be a more flexible option than purchasing a whole new pass, especially if your trip is ending soon.

Calls and Texts While Roaming in Spain

Beyond data, understanding the implications for calls and texts is integral to managing your EE roaming experience in Spain. While many travellers focus on data, unexpected charges for making or receiving calls, and sending texts, can accumulate rapidly. EE's policies for calls and texts when roaming in Spain are often tied to your specific plan and any Roam Abroad Passes you might have purchased.

For customers with inclusive roaming or a Roam Abroad Pass that covers calls and texts, using your allowance to call UK numbers is generally straightforward and covered by your bundle. However, the definition of 'UK numbers' typically refers to standard UK mobile and landline numbers. Calls to premium-rate numbers, non-geographic numbers (like 0800 or 0870), or numbers in other countries will usually incur additional charges, regardless of whether you have a pass or inclusive roaming.

If you do not have inclusive roaming or a suitable Roam Abroad Pass, calls made from Spain to the UK, or to Spanish numbers, will be charged at EE's standard out-of-bundle rates for EU roaming. These rates can be substantial. Similarly, any texts you send from Spain to UK or Spanish numbers will also be charged individually. Receiving calls in Spain may also incur a charge, depending on your specific plan, though this is less common within the EU than in some other regions.

EE PAY AS YOU GO customers with an EU Roaming Pack will find that calls and texts to UK numbers are typically included within the pack's allowances. However, as with contract plans, calls to foreign numbers or premium-rate services will likely be outside the pack's scope and incur extra charges. It's important to check the terms of your specific pack.

Making and Receiving Calls in Spain

When in Spain, dialling numbers can be done in several ways. If you dial a UK number directly (e.g., 07xxxxxxxxx or 01xxxxxxxxx), EE's system usually recognises this as a UK call and applies the appropriate charge or allowance. If you want to call a Spanish local number, you'll need to dial it using the Spanish country code (+34) followed by the local number. For example, a Spanish mobile number might be dialled as +34 6xx xxx xxxx.

The charges for making calls to Spanish numbers can differ from those for calling UK numbers. If your Roam Abroad Pass or inclusive roaming covers calls, it's crucial to check if this extends to all EU numbers or just UK numbers. If not, dialling a Spanish mobile number could be more expensive than dialling a UK mobile number. Always consult EE's roaming information for the most accurate pricing details.

Receiving calls while roaming in Spain is generally covered by your allowance or a Roam Abroad Pass. However, there can be exceptions, particularly if you are roaming outside the EU. For Spain, within the EU, it is less common to be charged for receiving calls, but it is still a point worth confirming with EE's documentation for your specific plan.

It is advisable to use messaging apps like WhatsApp for communication where possible, as these primarily use data. If you have a sufficient data allowance or a Roam Abroad Pass with ample data, using these apps can be a more cost-effective way to stay in touch than making traditional voice calls, especially if you need to call multiple people or for extended durations.

EE Roaming on PAY AS YOU GO in Spain

For EE PAY AS YOU GO customers, roaming in Spain requires a different approach compared to contract customers. The fundamental principle is that PAYG bundles do not automatically include roaming allowances unless specifically stated. Therefore, if you are an EE PAYG user and plan to use your phone in Spain, you must ensure you have an appropriate EU Roaming Pack active before you travel.

Without an active EU Roaming Pack, your calls, texts, and data usage in Spain will be charged at EE's standard PAYG roaming rates, which are considerably higher than UK PAYG rates and significantly more expensive than using a pack. These rates can lead to a rapid depletion of your PAYG balance and a surprisingly large bill if you are not careful.

EE offers specific EU Roaming Packs designed for customers travelling within the EU, including Spain. These packs bundle a set amount of data, minutes, and texts, valid for a specific period, typically 30 days. When you purchase an EU Roaming Pack, it replaces your existing UK bundle for the duration of the pack's validity, allowing you to use your phone in Spain as if you were in the UK, within the limits of the pack.

It's vital to differentiate between a standard UK PAYG Pack and an EU Roaming Pack. A standard UK pack is designed only for use within the UK. An EU Roaming Pack explicitly states that it includes roaming allowances for EU destinations. Always double-check the description of the pack you are purchasing to ensure it covers Spain.

Purchasing and Activating EU Roaming Packs

Purchasing an EU Roaming Pack for your EE PAY AS YOU GO service is typically done through your My EE account online or via the My EE mobile app. You can also often buy these packs by texting a specific keyword to 150 or by calling EE's customer service. It is recommended to purchase and activate your pack before you leave the UK to ensure it is ready to use as soon as you arrive in Spain.

Once purchased, the pack's allowances (data, minutes, texts) and its expiry date will be visible in your My EE account or app. You should monitor your usage against these allowances. If you use up your data, minutes, or texts before the pack expires, you will revert to standard PAYG rates unless you purchase a top-up or another pack. Some packs might allow you to purchase additional data if you run out before the expiry date.

If your pack expires while you are still in Spain, and you have not purchased a new one, any further usage will be charged at the standard PAYG roaming rates. Therefore, it's prudent to check the expiry date of your pack and consider purchasing a replacement pack if you plan to stay longer or anticipate continued usage.

For EE PAY AS YOU GO users, the EU Roaming Pack is your primary tool for affordable roaming in Spain. Without it, usage can become prohibitively expensive. Always ensure you select the correct pack that explicitly states it covers EU roaming destinations like Spain.

EE Roaming Europe vs. Spain Specifics

EE categorises much of its roaming policy under 'EU Roaming', which generally covers Spain. However, it's important to understand that while Spain is an EU member, EE's specific allowances and charges can sometimes be framed in broader 'Europe' terms or have nuances even within the EU. The core principle remains: your entitlement in Spain is dictated by your plan and EE's current roaming framework.

Typically, EE's policies treat all EU and EEA countries similarly regarding standard roaming. This means that if your plan includes inclusive roaming or a Roam Abroad Pass for EU countries, Spain should be covered under those terms. The 'Roam Like at Home' concept, even in its modified form, usually applies across the EU. Therefore, the same data cap, call rates, and text charges that apply to France or Germany would generally apply to Spain.

However, there can be variations in specific 'Roam Abroad Pass' offerings or PAYG EU Packs. While most will cover Spain, it's always wise to confirm. EE's website or customer service will list the countries covered by specific passes or packs. This is particularly relevant if you plan to visit countries outside the EU but still within Europe, where different rates and allowances might apply.

The primary difference for EE customers isn't typically between Spain and other EU countries, but between customers whose plans are configured for inclusive EU roaming and those who need to purchase add-ons. The 'EU Roaming Cap' on data is a common feature across many newer plans for all EU destinations. This cap ensures that while roaming is still offered, it doesn't lead to unlimited, unchecked usage that could strain network resources or lead to excessive costs for EE.

Navigating EE's 'Europe' Roaming Framework

EE's approach to 'Europe' roaming often means covering the EU and EEA member states. This umbrella term simplifies policy for many travellers. For Spain, this means that the rules and allowances that apply to other major EU countries are generally applicable. You will not usually find specific, different rules just for Spain compared to, say, Italy or Portugal, provided they are all within the EU/EEA.

The key is to identify if your plan falls into the 'inclusive roaming' category or the 'pay extra/buy a pass' category. If you have an older EE plan (often before a certain upgrade or join date), you might still have inclusive roaming, meaning your UK allowances for data, minutes, and texts extend to Spain without extra charge, subject to fair usage policies. If you have a newer plan, you will likely need to purchase a Roam Abroad Pass to avoid out-of-bundle charges. This pass provides a set amount of data, minutes, and texts for use in EU countries, including Spain.

For EE PAY AS YOU GO customers, the logic is similar: you need an EU Roaming Pack, which explicitly states it covers EU destinations, including Spain. These packs are the PAYG equivalent of the Roam Abroad Pass, offering a bundled allowance for a fixed price.

Always refer to EE's official roaming information for the most current details on which countries are covered by specific passes or plan benefits. While Spain is reliably included in EU roaming, double-checking ensures you have the most accurate information for your travel plans and avoid any misunderstandings about what your EE service will cover.

Alternatives and Additional Options

While EE provides its own roaming solutions, exploring alternatives can sometimes offer greater flexibility or cost savings, especially if you have complex usage needs or are travelling for an extended period. These alternatives range from local SIM cards to eSIMs and international roaming solutions from third-party providers. Understanding these options can empower you to make the most informed decision for your trip to Spain.

One of the most common alternatives is purchasing a local Spanish SIM card upon arrival. Spanish mobile providers offer prepaid SIM cards with generous data allowances and local call/text bundles at competitive prices. This is often the most economical choice for extended stays or for travellers who require a significant amount of data. You would typically need to purchase a SIM from a provider like Movistar, Vodafone Spain, or Orange Spain and then configure it on your phone. Ensure your phone is unlocked from EE to use a third-party SIM.

eSIM technology presents another convenient option. Many providers now offer eSIMs that can be purchased online and activated remotely. This allows you to have a local Spanish data plan or an international roaming plan without needing a physical SIM card. You can often have your EE SIM active for calls and texts while using an eSIM solely for data, offering a dual-SIM functionality if your phone supports it.

Several international travel SIM card providers offer plans that cover multiple countries, including Spain. These can sometimes be more cost-effective than using your home provider's roaming packages, especially if you are visiting several countries within a short period. Researching reputable travel SIM providers and comparing their data and call rates for Spain is recommended.

When to Consider Other Options

Consider alternatives to EE roaming if:

  • You are on an EE plan that has very high out-of-bundle charges for roaming or a very low data cap for EU usage.
  • You are travelling for a prolonged period (e.g., more than a month), as local Spanish SIMs or long-term travel eSIMs might be more cost-effective.
  • You require a substantial amount of data that would make EE's Roam Abroad Pass or data add-ons prohibitively expensive.
  • Your phone is unlocked and you are comfortable switching SIMs or using eSIMs.
  • You plan to make many local calls within Spain or receive calls from local Spanish numbers, where a local SIM might offer better rates.

Always weigh the convenience of using your EE SIM with roaming against the potential cost savings and flexibility of local SIMs or eSIMs. If you decide to use a local SIM or eSIM, remember to check your phone's compatibility and ensure it is unlocked from EE. Also, be aware that using a local SIM may mean you are not reachable on your UK EE number unless you forward calls or use data-based messaging apps.

For EE PAY AS YOU GO users, while EU Roaming Packs offer a solution, the cost per gigabyte might still be higher than a local Spanish prepaid data plan. If data is your priority, it's worth comparing the cost of an EE EU Roaming Pack against the price of a local Spanish data-focused SIM card for your duration of stay.

Preparing Your EE Phone for Spain

Ensuring your EE phone is correctly set up and prepared before you travel to Spain can prevent many common roaming issues. A little preparation can save you time, stress, and money, allowing you to enjoy your trip without technical hitches. This includes checking your phone's compatibility, understanding its settings, and ensuring your EE account is ready.

Firstly, confirm that your EE handset is unlocked. If you purchased your phone from EE and have been with them for a certain period (often 6 months or more), it is likely unlocked. However, if you are unsure, you can check your unlocking status via My EE or by contacting customer services. An unlocked phone is essential if you plan to use a local Spanish SIM card or an alternative travel SIM.

Secondly, familiarise yourself with your phone's roaming settings. On most smartphones, there is a specific setting for 'Data Roaming'. This must be switched ON for you to use mobile data in Spain. If this is OFF, you will not be able to access the internet using your EE SIM. You can usually find this option within your phone's 'Settings' menu, under 'Network & Internet' or 'Mobile Data'.

It's also wise to check your phone's APN (Access Point Name) settings. While these are usually configured automatically by EE when you insert your SIM card, in rare cases, they might need manual adjustment, particularly if you are using a third-party SIM or experiencing data connection issues. EE's website provides the correct APN settings for their network.

Essential Checks and Settings

Before you depart, take these essential steps:

  1. Check Your Roaming Entitlements: As detailed previously, confirm with EE what your plan covers in Spain.
  2. Enable Data Roaming: Ensure the 'Data Roaming' option is switched ON in your phone's settings. You can do this before you leave or once you arrive in Spain.
  3. Download Offline Maps: Use apps like Google Maps to download the maps for regions of Spain you intend to visit. This is vital for navigation without data.
  4. Update Apps and Software: Ensure all essential apps and your phone's operating system are up to date. Do this over Wi-Fi before you travel to avoid using roaming data.
  5. Set Up Wi-Fi Calling: If your phone and EE plan support Wi-Fi Calling, ensure it is enabled. This allows you to make and receive calls and texts over Wi-Fi networks, using your UK number and allowances (if applicable), which can be invaluable if mobile signal is poor.
  6. Disable Data Roaming Before Travel (Optional but Recommended): To prevent accidental data usage before you are ready or have confirmed your roaming status, you might consider turning off data roaming until you are in Spain and have confirmed your plan.
  7. Note Emergency Numbers: The primary emergency number in Spain, as in all EU countries, is 112. You can call this number from any mobile phone, often without needing a SIM card or when roaming.

Familiarise yourself with the My EE app. Download and log in to the app before you leave the UK. It provides a convenient way to check your allowances, purchase Roam Abroad Passes, and monitor your usage while you are in Spain.