What are the phone and SIM card options for Hac?

Saudi telecom providers (STC, Mobily, and Zain) offer special prepaid SIM packages for Hac hacilar, 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 Mekke.

Be prepared for severely congested mobile networks during peak Hac days, especially on the Day of Arafat and during the stoning at Cemerat 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, dua collections, and Hac 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 Mina, Arafat, and Muzdelife. Consider bringing a dual-SIM phone or keeping your home SIM for acil durum international calls while using the local SIM for data. Share your Saudi number with family before heading to the holy sites.