Seamless Saudi Service: Mobile Operators Launch Hajj Roaming Packs

Grameenphone, Banglalink, and Robi have introduced Hajj roaming packages that can be purchased using mobile balance, enabling Bangladeshi pilgrims to stay connected in Saudi Arabia without switching SIM cards. This initiative allows travelers to activate packages from Bangladesh before departure, ensuring uninterrupted service upon arrival in the Kingdom.

These roaming plans eliminate the need for international credit cards or searching for local recharge points, easing the communication process for pilgrims. Although the packages are purchased in Bangladesh, the validity begins only after arrival in Saudi Arabia, sparing users from linguistic hurdles and logistical challenges.

Grameenphone, which previously offered only multi-day packs, has now introduced a one-day package featuring 500MB data for BDT 154—significantly cheaper than the approximate BDT 185 it would cost in Saudi Arabia. Their 45-day package includes 150 minutes of call time and unlimited internet, recently reduced from BDT 6,999 to BDT 5,999. Comparable Saudi Arabian plans offer 100GB for around BDT 13,000.

Banglalink offers six packages, including a 7-day pack with 15 minutes talk time and 3GB data for BDT 594, a 15-day pack with 8GB data for BDT 994, a 30-day pack with 15GB data for BDT 1,994, and a 60-day pack with 300 minutes talk time and 50GB data for BDT 6,494.

Robi’s Hajj roaming offerings include data-only and combo packs, such as 500MB for BDT 146 valid for one day, 4GB data with 30 minutes and 10 SMS for BDT 696 valid for seven days, and 20GB data with 50 minutes and 50 SMS for BDT 2,198 valid for 50 days. A 60-day combo pack offering 45GB data, 250 minutes of talk time, and 20 SMS is priced at BDT 4,998.

Robi also offers a special voice pack of 100 minutes—including calls within Saudi Arabia, to Bangladesh, international calls, and incoming calls—valid for 40 days at a cost of BDT 1,396.