STC in Saudi Arabia: Mobile Data & Connectivity for Pilgrims
STC (Saudi Telecom Company) is the leading national telecom operator in the Kingdom. During Umrah and Hajj, when millions of people connect simultaneously, STC delivers the most consistent coverage inside Masjid al-Haram, the Prophet’s Mosque, as well as the tent cities of Mina and Arafat.
Popular STC Sawa Visitor Plans (For Pilgrims)
Special prepaid plans designed for tourists and pilgrims. All prices include 15% VAT.
Sawa Visitor 35
For short trips
- Data: 5 GB
- Calls: 1 Hour (Local & Int’l)
- Validity: 2 Weeks (14 Days)
- Activation: Send 6735 via SMS to 900
Sawa Visitor 60
Best overall value
- Data: 22 GB
- Calls: 2 Hours (Local & Int’l)
- Validity: 2 Weeks (14 Days)
- Activation: Send 6755 via SMS to 900
Sawa Visitor 104
For longer stays
- Data: 65 GB
- Calls: 5 Hours (Local & Int’l)
- Validity: 4 Weeks (28 Days)
- Activation: Send 6710 via SMS to 900
How to Buy & Activate an STC SIM or eSIM
Under Saudi law, every SIM card must be registered to your international passport.
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At Airport Arrival (Jeddah or Madinah)
Locate the official purple STC booth right after customs exit. Present your passport. The representative will scan your fingerprints and provide a physical SIM or an eSIM QR code.
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Via the mystc App (For eSIM)
Download the official mystc KSA app. Tap “Order a SIM”, select eSIM, and choose a Sawa plan. You will need to scan your passport and valid Saudi entry visa.
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In Makkah & Madinah Flagship Stores
Official STC outlets are located in Abraj Al Bait (Clock Tower) in Makkah and around the Prophet’s Mosque courtyard in Madinah.
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Checking Balance & Remaining Data
Send an SMS with code 166 to 900 or check your data balance directly inside the mystc app.
⚠ Important Biometric Regulation
Avoid purchasing physical SIM cards from unauthorized street vendors near the mosques without passport registration. These unregistered cards are typically blocked by CITC regulators within 24–48 hours with no refund.
Advantages of Using STC for Hajj & Umrah
Staying connected during rituals is crucial for keeping in touch with your travel group and loved ones back home.
- Maximum Network Capacity at Haramain: STC base stations inside Masjid al-Haram handle extreme network congestion during Friday prayers and Ramadan nights.
- Haramain High-Speed Train Coverage: Uninterrupted data connectivity along the high-speed rail route connecting Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah.
- Flexible Calling Minutes (Flex Minutes): Included voice minutes can be used interchangeably for local Saudi calls or international calls back home.
Frequently Asked Questions About STC
Why is STC considered the best operator for pilgrims?
STC (Saudi Telecom Company) is Saudi Arabia’s largest national operator, offering the dense 5G/4G coverage in Makkah, Madinah, inside Masjid al-Haram, as well as in Mina and Arafat.
Do I need a passport to buy an STC SIM card?
Yes, under Saudi regulations, every local physical SIM or eSIM must be registered to an international passport with mandatory fingerprint scanning at the counter or system verification.
Where can I buy an STC SIM card upon arrival?
Official STC booths operate 24/7 in the arrival terminals at Jeddah (JED) and Madinah (MED) airports, as well as in flagship stores and hotel complexes around Masjid al-Haram.
Can I get an STC eSIM before travel?
Yes, an STC eSIM can be ordered and paid for through the official mystc app, though activation requires scanning your passport and valid Saudi visa.
Related Guides
Independent Information Notice. NewHaj is an independent resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by STC (Saudi Telecom Company). Plans, pricing, and terms are subject to change by the provider. For official details, visit: stc.com.sa.
Author: NewHaj
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