Staying connected is vital for using apps like Nusuk (for Rawdah/Umrah slots), Google Maps, and Uber.
Buying at the Airport
All three major providers have kiosks at Jeddah and Madinah arrivals.
- Requirement: Passport and Visa number.
- Fingerprint: You must scan your fingerprint to activate the SIM.
1. STC (Saudi Telecom Company)
- Coverage: Excellent (Best coverage on highways and remote Ziyarat spots).
- Price: Slightly premium.
- Popular Package: Sawa Visitor (approx. 65-100 SAR for 10GB-15GB).
2. Mobily
- Coverage: Very Good in cities (Makkah/Madinah).
- Price: Competitive.
- Popular Package: Mobily Visitor 20 (approx. 50-80 SAR).
3. Zain
- Coverage: Good in cities, weaker on desert highways.
- Price: Often the cheapest data deals.
Recommendation
- If you travel inter-city by road extensively: Get STC.
- If you stay mostly in Makkah/Madinah: Mobily or Zain offer great value.
- eSIM: Apps like Airalo are easier (no queuing) but often more expensive per GB than local physical SIMs.
