The government announced on Tuesday that this year’s Hajj pilgrims would be provided 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, told The Express Tribune that under the arrangement, pilgrims would receive free connectivity services to help them stay in touch throughout the pilgrimage period.

Those travelling under the long package of 40 days would be given 600 local and international minutes along with 40GB of internet data, while those under the short package would receive 300 minutes and 25GB of data. The allocated minutes can be used for both incoming and outgoing calls.

Butt advised that pilgrims only use the SIM card issued by the government, warning that only one SIM would be issued per passport and obtaining an additional SIM may lead to cancellation of the official connection.

The spokesperson added that recharge codes would be available at pilgrims’ accommodation buildings or counters, with top-up facilities provided on payment. The SIM cards would be distributed at designated Hajj residences.

Read More: PIA completes preparations for Hajj operations

According to the ministry, pre-Hajj flight operations are set to begin on April 18, and all visas for approximately 120,000 selected pilgrims have been issued following the completion of required procedures within the Saudi timeline.

“The Hajj flight operation will continue until May 21, with a total of 468 flights scheduled to transport pilgrims to Saudi Arabia over a 34-day period. The first flights will depart from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan, carrying pilgrims to Madinah,” it added.

To facilitate pilgrims, the government enhanced its digital system and advised all travellers to use the “Pak Hajj 2026” mobile application for flight schedules, departure details, and accommodation information. The app would also serve as an official platform for updates and announcements during the Hajj operation.

The ministry urged pilgrims to stay connected with the application and the official website to remain informed about any changes in schedules or training programmes.