Govt to provide free SIMs and data packages to 2026 Hajj pilgrims

ISLAMABAD: The government has announced that pilgrims travelling for Hajj in 2026 will be given free local SIM cards, along with call and internet packages, for use during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony spokesperson Umer Butt said the arrangement was aimed at helping pilgrims remain connected during the pilgrimage period. He told The Express Tribune that the free connectivity facility would be provided to assist pilgrims in staying in touch throughout their time in the kingdom.

Under the plan, pilgrims opting for the 40-day long package will receive 600 local and international minutes as well as 40GB of internet data. Those travelling under the short package will be provided 300 minutes and 25GB of data.

According to the spokesperson, the allotted minutes will be valid for both incoming and outgoing calls. He also advised pilgrims to use only the SIM card issued under the government arrangement.

Butt warned that only one SIM card would be issued against each passport. He said that obtaining another SIM could result in the cancellation of the officially issued connection.

The spokesperson further said recharge codes would be made available at pilgrims’ accommodation buildings or designated counters. He added that top-up facilities would also be offered on payment.

SIM cards will be distributed at designated Hajj residences, according to the ministry.

Flight operations and visas

The ministry said pre-Hajj flight operations are scheduled to begin on April 18. It also stated that visas for around 120,000 selected pilgrims have been issued after the completion of the required procedures within the timeline set by Saudi authorities.

The latest announcement outlines the communication facilities being arranged for Pakistani pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj, alongside the operational preparations already completed for their travel.