ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The federal government has provided a major new support initiative for Hajj pilgrims through its decision to deliver complimentary Saudi SIM cards to all pilgrims who plan to visit the Kingdom.
The details show that the SIM cards will be provided to users at no cost, which allows them to make calls throughout their pilgrimage period in Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims staying for up to 40 days will receive a package that includes 600 local and international minutes and 40GB of internet data. The shorter package will give users 300 local and international minutes, together with 25GB of internet data.
The minutes allow users to make outgoing calls, and they can also receive incoming calls. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has told pilgrims to avoid buying extra SIM cards because they will receive one official SIM card that uses their passport information.
The authorities issued a warning that buying another SIM would lead to the cancellation of the government SIM, which had been issued to them.
The ministry announced that pilgrims can obtain mobile recharge codes from their accommodation building counters, and they can pay to add extra balance once their data or credit has been used up.
Saudi Airlines launches free in-flight internet service
An in-flight internet service has been launched across every fleet of Saudi Arabian Airlines, or Saudia, aimed at providing high-speed internet access for all passengers free of charge.
According to the official, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund subsidiary, Neo Space Group, a leading national commercial space services company, has partnered with Saudi Arabian Airlines.
The initiative will equip Saudia aircraft with advanced connectivity solutions, making Saudia one of the first airlines in the Middle East to offer complimentary broadband internet throughout its flights.
Saudia said the investment in digital infrastructure is becoming a strategic priority as it expands operations and modernizes its fleet.
The airline emphasized that connectivity has become a key component of the passenger experience and a critical differentiator in the highly competitive global aviation market.
Airline’s DG remarks
Saudia Director General Ibrahim Al-Omar said the airline is accelerating investments in fleet modernization and digital transformation, noting that in-flight connectivity is now central to shaping customer experience.
He added that the partnership strengthens Saudia’s integrated digital ecosystem and supports its long-term competitiveness and sustainable growth in an increasingly connected aviation sector.
The collaboration comes at a pivotal stage in Saudia’s transformation journey, as the airline is undergoing the largest investment in its history to enhance the passenger experience.
This includes a comprehensive cabin refurbishment program and the rollout of next-generation digital services, ensuring more distinctive and enjoyable travel that reflects authentic Saudi values.
NSG CEO Haithem Al-Faraj said the partnership reflects the spirit of progress taking place in the Kingdom, noting that, as a PIF company, NSG is proud to deliver advanced, sovereign-grade connectivity solutions at scale.
He added that the aviation sector is a strategic priority for NSG, and that the milestone marks an important step in providing high-speed connectivity to passengers in Saudi Arabia and around the world.
