eSIM and internet for Umrah

On Umrah your phone holds more than family chats: Nusuk permits, Rawdah bookings, train tickets and hotel details. Sort out these few steps before you fly and you'll be online the moment you land in Jeddah or Madinah.

Before you travel

  1. Check that your phone supports eSIM and isn't locked to an operator.
  2. Buy a Saudi Arabia eSIM and install it at home over Wi-Fi; switch it on when you land.
  3. Turn off data roaming on your home SIM. Calls and bank SMS codes still reach you, but data use without a pack can be expensive.
  4. Take screenshots of your Nusuk permits, hotel booking and flight details.

The Nusuk app

Nusuk is the official app for the mandatory Umrah permit, Rawdah visit bookings in Madinah, Haramain high-speed train tickets between Makkah and Madinah, and hotel bookings. Since August 2025 the app has been announced to work offline as well.

Still, check the app and your permits before you leave home, keep your login details handy and save screenshots of important permits.

Internet in Makkah and Madinah

There is mobile coverage in the cities and around the holy mosques, but in very crowded areas at prayer times and on busy days data can slow down. Keep important documents where you can open them without internet, and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated from your group.

WhatsApp calls with family

As of August 2026, WhatsApp messages and calls generally work in Saudi Arabia. Some internet calling services have been restricted in the past, so don't rely on a single app for an important call; use voice notes or a regular call as a backup.

Most travel eSIMs are data only; your home number can stay on in the phone for calls.

How much data do you need?

Maps, messaging and sharing photos use about 1 GB a day. For a two-week Umrah, a 10–20 GB plan is usually enough. If you'll video call family every day or share a hotspot with your group, choose a larger or unlimited plan.

If you'd rather buy a local SIM

STC, Mobily and Zain sell tourist SIMs at Jeddah, Madinah and Riyadh airports; you need your passport, visa number and fingerprint registration. See our Saudi Arabia page for details and networks.