When you arrive in Mecca or Madinah, one of the first things you’ll likely need is a working phone number. You’ll want to message loved ones, check hotel bookings, access maps, or simply share a photo near the mosque. Getting a SIM card is one of the most practical steps to settle into your journey. In Saudi Arabia, the process is simple, and there are plenty of options tailored to pilgrims and tourists.

This guide walks you through the best SIM card to buy in Mecca and Madinah, including prepaid options, data packages, network coverage, and where exactly you can buy one, without getting overwhelmed.

Where to Buy SIM Cards in Mecca and Madinah

You’ll find SIM card shops in major entry points and near the religious sites themselves. If you’re flying in, the most convenient place to get a SIM card in Medina is at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport. The booths are located just after immigration. Similarly, in Mecca, there are mobile shops near the Haram and within shopping centers such as Abraj Al Bait and Al Hijaz Mall.

Most SIM card vendors in Mecca and Madinah will ask for your passport and visa, so keep those handy. Activation usually takes just a few minutes.

Top SIM Card Providers in Mecca and Madinah

Three main providers operate across Saudi Arabia with reliable service in both cities: STC, Mobily, and Zain. All three offer prepaid SIM card options for tourists with packages that include internet, local minutes, and international calling.

STC (Saudi Telecom Company)

STC offers good coverage and fast speeds in Mecca and Madinah. It’s a popular choice among pilgrims and residents.

Prepaid SIM Packages:

• 5GB with 60 minutes (2 Weeks) – 40.25 SAR
• 20GB with 120 minutes (2 Weeks) – 70 SAR
• 25GB with 180 minutes (3 Weeks) – 85 SAR
• 55GB with 300 minutes (4 Weeks) – 120 SAR

These minutes can be used for both local and international calls, making STC a great option if you need to stay in touch with family abroad.

Mobily

Mobily offers competitive prepaid SIM card plans and has a wide network reach. You can find Mobily booths at the airport, malls, and even smaller kiosks near the Haram.

Prepaid SIM Packages:

• 5GB with 60 minutes (14 Days) – 35 SAR
• 15GB with 120 minutes (14 Days) – 58 SAR
• 48GB with 300 minutes (30 Days) – 104 SAR

Mobily also offers good support for E-SIM users, especially helpful for newer smartphones.

Zain

Zain provides solid network coverage in Mecca and Madinah with SIM cards that work well for pilgrims staying longer or needing generous calling minutes.

Prepaid SIM Packages:

• 6GB with 60 minutes (2 Weeks) – 40 SAR
• 15GB with 150 minutes (2 Weeks) – 60 SAR
• 25GB with 250 minutes (3 Weeks) – 85 SAR
• 40GB with 350 minutes (4 Weeks) – 120 SAR

All packages include international calling minutes, so you won’t need to top up separately to call abroad.

E-SIM Options in Mecca and Madinah

If you prefer going digital, E-SIM options are available through providers like STC and Mobily. This is helpful if you don’t want to remove your home SIM card or are using dual-SIM phones. You can request an E-SIM at any official provider store in Mecca or Madinah. Just show your passport, and they’ll scan a QR code for instant activation.

E-SIMs are great for convenience, but be sure your device is compatible before choosing this option.

What’s the Best SIM Card for Tourists in Mecca?

The best SIM card for tourists in Mecca depends on your needs:

• For short stays: Mobily’s 5GB or STC’s 5GB plan are affordable and enough for messaging and browsing.
• For longer stays or heavy use: Zain’s 40GB or STC’s 55GB plans provide strong value.
• For international calls: All three providers offer bundled minutes usable for both local and global calls.
• For e-SIM users: STC and Mobily are your best bet for E-SIM support in Mecca.

How to Get a SIM Card in Saudi Arabia

To purchase a SIM card in Mecca or Madinah, you’ll need:

• Passport with visa
• Face scan (most shops do biometric registration)
• Cash or card payment

Vendors will activate the SIM on the spot. Your number will be printed on the package or sent via SMS.

Can You Buy SIM Cards Near the Mosques?

Yes, there are several official SIM card shops and authorized resellers close to Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. These locations cater to pilgrims and have multilingual staff. Look for booths with signs from STC, Mobily, or Zain near hotel lobbies and main walkways.

Avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors or unverified stalls to ensure your connection is safe and valid.

SIM Card With Unlimited Internet in Saudi Arabia

While none of the prepaid tourist packages offer truly unlimited data, the higher-tier plans from STC and Zain give you more than enough for streaming, navigation, and staying connected during your stay. For unlimited options, ask in-store for monthly postpaid plans, though those may require a resident ID (Iqama).

Staying Connected During Your Trip

Getting a SIM card to buy in Mecca and Madinah is one of the simplest ways to make your trip easier. With affordable prepaid options, fast setup, and helpful support, you can land, connect, and focus on your journey.

Whether you’re arriving for Umrah, Hajj, or a quiet visit, a SIM card helps you stay grounded and connected. Between STC, Mobily, and Zain, you’ll find something that suits your trip, your pace, and your phone.

And as you walk the streets of Mecca or sit in the courtyards of Madinah, having that simple connection gives you room to navigate with ease, call when needed, and share the journey as it unfolds.

FAQs

What is the best SIM card to buy in Mecca and Madinah for tourists?
The best SIM card depends on your data needs and call preferences. STC, Mobily, and Zain all offer reliable coverage in Mecca and Madinah. For example, STC’s 25GB with 180 minutes for 85 SAR is a popular option among pilgrims staying for three weeks.

Where can I buy a SIM card near the mosques in Mecca and Madinah?
You can find SIM card vendors at King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport (Medinah), and retail shops near Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi. Mobile kiosks are common near the mosque entrances and in nearby malls.

Can I use a tourist SIM card in Saudi Arabia for international calls?
Yes. Many prepaid tourist SIM cards in Mecca and Madinah include minutes for international calling. For example, Zain’s 40GB plan includes 350 minutes that can be used locally or internationally.

Is there an unlimited internet SIM card option for pilgrims?
While there are no truly unlimited options, high-data plans like STC’s 55GB with 300 minutes (120 SAR) or Zain’s 40GB with 350 minutes (120 SAR) offer plenty of data for heavy users.

Can I use an eSIM in Mecca and Madinah instead of a physical SIM card?
Yes. Providers like STC and Mobily support eSIM technology. You can activate an eSIM by scanning a QR code from the provider’s app or visiting a local store for setup.

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