In a significant move to enhance the digital experience for pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has introduced a new service allowing international Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to activate eSIM cards instantly upon arrival.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and licensed telecom operators, aims to provide seamless connectivity for pilgrims from the moment they enter the Kingdom.

Streamlined eSIM Activation Process

The introduction of digital eSIM activation for pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia marks a major shift in how travelers connect during their religious journey. Traditionally, pilgrims had to queue at airport kiosks or seek out local telecom stores after a long flight, often dealing with language barriers and limited availability of physical SIM cards. Now, thanks to a digitally streamlined system, these issues are a thing of the past.

Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims can activate an eSIM directly through the official mobile applications of licensed telecom providers such as STC, Mobily, and Zain. This can be done using just a smartphone with eSIM capability—no physical SIM card, no waiting, and no paperwork required. The user-friendly interfaces of these apps guide pilgrims step-by-step through the process, with multilingual support that caters to the diverse global audience of Hajj and Umrah.

A key component of this new system is the integration with the Saudi government’s Absher platform, a secure digital identity and services portal widely used within the Kingdom. Through biometric authentication—such as fingerprint or facial recognition—pilgrims can verify their identity quickly and securely. This not only enhances the overall safety of the process but also significantly reduces the chances of fraud or unauthorized SIM use.

Moreover, the entire activation process can be completed before leaving the airport or even in transit, allowing users to access mobile data, navigation tools, ride-hailing apps, and religious resources the moment they land. The convenience of instant connectivity means that pilgrims can contact family, access accommodation bookings, and receive real-time updates from tour operators without any delays.

For those unfamiliar with eSIM technology, the process is also supported by in-app tutorials and assistance, ensuring even first-time users can complete setup without difficulty. By removing the traditional logistical barriers, Saudi Arabia is not only embracing smart technology but also significantly improving the overall pilgrimage experience, especially for the elderly and those traveling in large groups.

This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals and sets a new standard for how countries can leverage innovation to welcome international visitors efficiently and safely.

Benefits for Pilgrims

This digital advancement offers several advantages:

• Immediate Connectivity: Pilgrims can stay connected with family and access essential services without delay.
• Convenience: The need for physical SIM cards is eliminated, reducing the hassle of purchasing and installing traditional SIMs.
• Enhanced Security: Biometric verification adds a layer of security to the activation process.

Supporting the Pilgrimage Experience

With nearly 666,000 overseas pilgrims having arrived in Saudi Arabia for the upcoming Hajj season, this service is timely. The initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to leverage technology in facilitating religious journeys, ensuring that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual obligations with peace of mind.

As Saudi Arabia continues to embrace digital solutions, the instant activation of eSIM cards marks a significant step in enhancing the pilgrimage experience through technology.