What are the phone and SIM card options for الحج?

Saudi telecom providers (STC, Mobily, and Zain) offer special prepaid SIM packages for الحج الحجاج, available at airports and authorized dealers. These typically include data, local calls, and international minutes at competitive rates. You will need your passport to purchase a SIM card. Buy one immediately upon arrival before heading to مكة.

Be prepared for severely congested mobile networks during peak الحج days, especially on the Day of عرفة and during the stoning at الجمرات when millions of people are concentrated in small areas trying to use their phones simultaneously. Data speeds can slow to a crawl or become completely unavailable. Plan accordingly by downloading all essential content offline — including maps, دعاء collections, and الحج guides — before departure.

Free WiFi is available in many hotels and within parts of the Haram, but it is often slow and unreliable during peak times. Carry a portable power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh minimum) as you will be away from charging points for extended periods, especially during the days of منى, عرفة, and مزدلفة. Consider bringing a dual-SIM phone or keeping your home SIM for الطوارئ international calls while using the local SIM for data. Share your Saudi number with family before heading to the holy sites.