Pilgrims can now activate eSIM cards digitally upon arrival in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH — Authorities in Saudi Arabia have enabled international pilgrims to activate eSIM cards directly through service provider applications, offering seamless digital connectivity upon arrival in the Kingdom.
The joint initiative is led by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), in partnership with the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and licensed telecom providers.
The service allows pilgrims to request eSIM cards from local providers, which are then verified and activated digitally via biometric verification through the 'Absher' platform.
This process ensures that pilgrims are connected as soon as they arrive, eliminating the need to visit service branches or wait until reaching their accommodation.
The initiative is part of CST's broader efforts to support pilgrims through innovative digital solutions.It reflects the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing the user experience and highlights the integration between government entities and private sector players in serving visitors to the Holy Mosque.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Saudi Gazette
an hour ago
- Saudi Gazette
Pilgrims start flocking to Mina from Makkah early on Wednesday
Saudi Gazette Report MINA — Pilgrims started flocking to Mina from their residences in Makkah early on Wednesday, Dhul Hijjah 8, to spend the Day of Tarwiyah, marking the beginning of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj. Following the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), they are reciting talbiyah and glorifying God while heading to the Tent City. Hundreds of thousands of domestic pilgrims join more than 1.47 million foreign pilgrims who came from all over the world to perform Hajj this year. Dr. Mohammed Al-Qarni, director general of Hajj and Umrah at the General Transportation Center of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, said that international pilgrims have completed their arrival in Makkah, while domestic pilgrims reached Makkah and performed Tawaf Al-Qudum before heading to Mina tonight in preparation for performing the Hajj rituals. "The arrival phase of international pilgrims has been completed, with travel between Makkah and Madinah occurring over the past 36 days. No incidents have been recorded that would impede the movement of pilgrims during this phase. We are now receiving domestic pilgrims, who started arriving in Makkah on Monday night and Tuesday and performed tawaf,' he said. Dr. Al-Qarni said that pilgrims' movement will begin from 8:00 pm on Tuesday until 10 am on Wednesday. The Tarwiyah phase of the ascent from Mina to Arafat will begin via three modes of transportation. 'The Mashair train will carry 316,000 pilgrims, while multi-modal and traditional transportation will transport approximately 720,000 pilgrims. These numbers include their arrival and ascending on Arafat on the morning of Thursday, Dhul Hijjah 9, the Day of Arafat,' he said. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has completed preparations at Al-Khayf Mosque in Mina to receive pilgrims with spreading prayer rugs on an area covering more than 27,000 square meters as part of an integrated operational and technical service system designed to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the pilgrims. This year, Al-Khayf Mosque underwent several major upgrades, including a comprehensive overhaul of its air-conditioning and ventilation systems. The enhancements feature the installation of advanced cooling units connected to smart control systems, as well as monitoring systems that detect carbon dioxide levels and automatically activate fans and cooling devices, thereby improving operational efficiency and maximizing comfort for the pilgrims. In the wake of the forecast of sweltering summer temperatures, the Saud authorities have made elaborate arrangements and preparations to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. Dr. Abdullah Asir, deputy minister of health, said that the ministry has mobilized a total of 50,000 healthcare workers and administrative staff for the Hajj, far exceeding previous years' numbers. More than 700 hospital beds are ready, equipped with fans to treat severe cases of heat illnesses. "Capacity this year has been expanded by more than 60 percent compared to last year," he said. Eng. Khaled Al-Tala'a, spokesman of the Ministry of Health, revealed that the health status of pilgrims is stable. He announced the launch of three field hospitals and the operation of 71 emergency points. Al-Tala'a also noted that the bed capacity has increased by 60 percent compared to the previous year, and that more than 98,000 health services have been provided to date.
Saudi Gazette
3 hours ago
- Saudi Gazette
Health Ministry urges pilgrims not to expose to heat stress
Saudi Gazette report MINA — As pilgrims are preparing to move to Mina, to mark the beginning of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj, the Ministry of Health has intensified its comprehensive field and awareness initiatives to safeguard pilgrims' health and prevent heat stress. This effort aligns with Vision 2030's Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program that aimed for a safe and healthy Hajj. Preventing heat-related illnesses is a top priority of the ministry. It urged pilgrims to use umbrellas, drink water regularly, even if they are not thirsty, and wear light-colored, lightweight clothing. Symptoms of heat stress include headache, dizziness, excessive sweating, thirst, and nausea. Upon noticing these, pilgrims should immediately move to a shaded area, cool down with water, and drink plenty of fluids. Pilgrims are advised to avoid direct sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm, refrain from walking on hot surfaces, and exercise caution when engaging in strenuous activities, such as climbing mountains, on the Day of Arafat, which can increase the risk of heat stress. The ministry affirmed that the health sector is highly prepared, with over 34 equipped field health units strategically distributed across the holy sites. These units provide urgent medical care and rapid response for heat stress cases, enhancing pilgrim safety. The ministry has also launched a health awareness kit, available in eight languages, offering comprehensive health guidelines. Through its advanced field system and qualified medical personnel, the Ministry of Health continues its extensive efforts to provide comprehensive health and preventive services, promoting safety and ensuring pilgrims can perform their rituals with ease and tranquility in a healthy environment.
Saudi Gazette
3 hours ago
- Saudi Gazette
Madinah welcomes influx of residents after bidding farewell to pilgrims
Saudi Gazette report MADINAH — Madinah welcomes a large number of worshipers from across the Kingdom, including both citizens and expatriates, who gather to enjoy the Eid Al-Adha holiday in a spiritually enriching atmosphere. The arrival of residents in Madinah coincides with the departure of pilgrims heading to Makkah and the holy sites to perform Hajj rituals. Experiencing Madinah during these blessed days offers visitors an excellent opportunity, with ease of movement and low congestion facilitating the smooth performance of prayers at the Prophet's Mosque. In addition, visitors can explore historical sites and Islamic landmarks that are beautifully distributed throughout the region. Many visitors are keen to stay in hotels and residential accommodations near the Prophet's Mosque, seeking to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of devotion and worship. They hope to make the most of these days by fasting on the Day of Arafat and joining fellow worshippers for iftar meals in the mosque's courtyards. The central area around the Prophet's Mosque remains bustling with visitors, drawn by its vibrant commercial markets and restaurants. Smooth traffic flow and the well-organized services, supervised by relevant security and service agencies, enhance visitor comfort and ensure the highest standards of care.
