eSIM for Umrah and Hajj: A Saudi Arabia Data Guide
Plan your mobile data for Umrah or Hajj. Why pilgrims need data for the Nusuk app, how much to buy, Saudi Arabia eSIM prices, and setting up before you fly.
An eSIM for Saudi Arabia gives you mobile data from the moment you land in Jeddah or Madinah, without looking for a SIM shop. For pilgrims, data is more than a convenience: you may need it for permits, maps and staying in touch with your group. This guide covers what to plan before you travel for Umrah or Hajj.
Why do pilgrims need mobile data in Saudi Arabia?
Pilgrims use apps for permits, navigation and contacting family and group leaders. Gulf News describes Nusuk as "the official guide to Mecca and Medina", the app used for Umrah permits.
It also reports that international pilgrims must obtain an Umrah permit before entering the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and the same applies to the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, including the Noble Rawdah. Rules can change, so check the official Nusuk platform before you travel.
How much data do I need for Umrah?
For a typical one-to-two-week Umrah trip using apps, maps, messages and some video calls, 5–10 GB is a sensible starting point. If you plan many video calls with family, choose more.
Video calls and streaming use the most data. Netflix, for example, says high-definition video uses up to 3 GB per hour. See how much mobile data you need when travelling for more examples.
How much does a Saudi Arabia eSIM cost?
Simnetic's Saudi Arabia plans start at $1.99. Prices below were checked on 15 October 2026 and can change; see the Saudi Arabia eSIM page for current prices.
Data | Validity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 7 days | $2.99 |
3 GB | 15 days | $8.99 |
5 GB | 15 days | $12.99 |
10 GB | 30 days | $22.99 |
20 GB | 30 days | $39.49 |
These plans are data-only and do not include a Saudi phone number. Day passes marked "unlimited" include a daily allowance at full speed, after which speed is reduced under a fair-use policy.
Simnetic tip: Each Saudi Arabia plan shows whether top-ups are available before you buy. If you might need more data mid-trip, choose a plan you can top up.
When should I install my eSIM?
Install it at home on Wi-Fi, before you fly. Apple notes that an iPhone must be connected to Wi-Fi or a hotspot to set up eSIM in most cases, and airport Wi-Fi can be busy.
Check your plan's activation policy before installing. Some plans start their validity when you install them, so install those close to your departure date. Our install guide covers iPhone and Android.
Can I keep my home number during Umrah?
Yes. Keep your home SIM on for calls and texts, and set the Saudi eSIM as your mobile data line. Apple says an iPhone with a SIM tray can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM while travelling.
Turn off data roaming on your home line to avoid roaming charges. Our guide to keeping your number with a travel eSIM shows the settings step by step.
What should I check before I buy?
Check three things: your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked, the plan's data covers your whole stay, and the validity is at least as long as your trip.
If you are not sure about your phone, read how to check if your phone is eSIM compatible. Then choose a Saudi Arabia eSIM plan.
About the author: Written by the Simnetic team at Domaxit LTD, a London-based provider of prepaid travel eSIM data plans for 217 countries and virtual phone numbers. We check every price and plan detail in our articles against the live Simnetic catalogue before publishing.