An eSIM is an embedded SIM card, and you probably already have an eSIM-compatible device. When you install an eSIM for a country or region, it lets your device connect to local networks in that area. This means your device will have data without needing Wi-Fi or paying roaming charges.
The holy city of Mecca is an ancient one, with medieval religious buildings and palaces lining its streets. All of this history, as well as beautiful new buildings and marble walkways, leads pilgrims through to Masjid al-Ḥarām (The Sacred Mosque).
As you travel alongside millions to the holy city of Mecca this year for Hajj, you’ll likely want to connect with your loved ones throughout your journey.
Staying connected in Saudi Arabia is affordable and easy, with prepaid eSIM data that starts at $5 for a full week. Buy whenever, and top up any time you need more!
Your data requirements in Saudi Arabia during your Hajj Pilgrimage will depend on your activities. When Wi-Fi isn’t available, you’ll want a steady data connection to stay in touch with family and friends.
A prepaid Saudi Arabia eSIM will provide you instant access to data wherever you are and whenever you need it! You can start with a small data package and add more travel data if required.
We also have a travel data calculator to help you estimate how much data you’ll need for your Hajj Pilgrimage.
By using a Saudi Arabia eSIM for all data, you won’t pay any roaming charges during your stay. This is because you’ll be telling your device NOT to “roam,” and instead it will be using a local network for data.
Your Saudi Arabia eSIM will directly connect your device to a local network in Saudi Arabia, giving you prepaid data to use during your trip.
(Make sure you’ve turned off Data Roaming on your Primary SIM card to prevent your home carrier from adding roaming charges to your next bill).
Saudi Arabia is known as the birthplace of Islam, and as a country full of ancient culture. In addition to its holy cities, the country features landscapes of all kinds, from deserts to oases.
Masjid al-Ḥarām: Known as the Great Mosque, this sacred building is located in the holy city of Mecca. It’s the largest mosque in the world and one of the oldest. Important to note: Mecca is open only to Muslims.
Al-Ahsa Oasis: Saudi Arabia is not all desert, and is home to Al-Ahsa Oasis, the largest in the world. The beautiful oasis, and ancient towns within it, are a wonder to all who visit.
Mada’In Saleh: Located in Al Hijr, Mada’In Salem is a city of ancient tombs that are carved into sandstone cliffs. These tombs were carved by the Nabatean people, and known as Hegra, and are a dream destination for all history lovers.
In a region as ancient as Saudi Arabia, there will be plenty of amazing food to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes to check out during your time there.
Kabsa: this hearty, aromatic rice and roast chicken dish is considered Saudi Arabia’s national dish. It’s served on large platters for several people to enjoy together.
Matazeez: this traditional dish is made up of flat dumplings that are cooked and served in a rich stewed meat, with vegetables and spices.
Mutabbaq: This famous Saudi street food is a fried pancake that’s stuffed with toppings of your choice (often meats, eggs, garlic, ghee, onion, and peppers).
If you mind the heat, you’ll want to pick the right times of year to visit this mostly desert destination.
Hajj (for Muslims): Of course a great time for visitors to journey to Saudi Arabia is during Hajj. Remember that during Hajj, and also the rest of the year, Mecca is open only to Muslims.
November: Late fall marks the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s rainy season, when its central plateau (including Riyadh) sees most of its rain. This will keep things cool, and add a unique perspective to your desert travels.
January: Early-to-mid-winter is the coolest month, with temps averaging 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping cool will help you enjoy your time in Saudi Arabia if you mind the heat.
Your trip to Saudi Arabia trip is bound to be an impressive one, so make to keep the following in mind.
Sunglasses: You’d be correct to assume that a desert sun stays bright for long periods of time. Bring those shades, and keep your eyes protected.
Conservative clothing: Before your trip, learn about what local people wear, and advise on how travellers are encouraged to dress. Always respect local customs in any country you visit.
A day bag: With that constant sun, even during winter, having snacks and water in a day bag will ensure you’re feeling great, at all hours of the day.
Most newer phones, tablets, and computers are already eSIM-compatible, so use our eSIM device checker to make sure you have a device that can accept an eSIM.
Free Wi-Fi is great when it’s available and working well, but some destinations make it just about impossible to get a good connection. That’s why it’s nice to have data as a backup to stay connected.
We’re proud to provide aloSIM customers with fast eSIM data connections that allow them to talk, text, surf, and stream comfortably. You’ll likely experience a 4G (sometimes 5G) or LTE equivalent network in most locations, depending on what’s available in the area.
We have detailed eSIM installation instructions for all compatible devices, so whether you’re looking to add eSIM data to an iPhone or iPad, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, or something else, we’ll be able to walk you through the eSIM set-up process easily.
It can be confusing to know the best roaming settings for your phone while you travel internationally, so we’ve created an easy walk-through guide to show you exactly how your phone’s roaming settings should look.
