How to Check Your Data Balance on a Saudi eSIM

To check your remaining data on a Saudi eSIM, you can monitor your usage directly through your smartphone's cellular settings or by logging into your UmrahRoam account dashboard for real-time updates. Because these eSIMs are data-only and do not include a local Saudi phone number, traditional USSD dialer codes like *166# or *1411# will not work. Staying connected is a vital part of the modern pilgrimage experience, allowing you to stay in touch with family, navigate the busy streets of Makkah, and access essential government apps.

Why Monitoring Your Data is Essential for Pilgrims

When you land at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah or Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah, the last thing you want to worry about is a sudden loss of connectivity. Pilgrims today rely heavily on data for more than just social media. The Nusuk app, for instance, is mandatory for booking your slots to pray in the Rawdah at the Prophet’s Mosque or for performing Umrah. If your data runs out while you are standing in line for a permit check, it can cause significant stress and delays. By learning how to check your data balance on a Saudi eSIM, you ensure that you are always prepared.

UmrahRoam provides robust connectivity through the STC network, which offers extensive 5G and 4G coverage across the Kingdom. Whether you are in the high-rise hotels of Jabal Omar or the tent city of Mina, having a clear picture of your data usage helps you manage your consumption during your stay. You can see plans that range from 1GB for short trips to 50GB for extended stays, ensuring there is an option for every type of traveler.

Method 1: Checking Data via Phone Settings

The most immediate way to see how much data you have used is through your phone’s built-in tracking system. This method tracks the data transmitted through the eSIM since it was installed or since the statistics were last reset.

For iPhone Users (iOS)

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data.
3. Scroll down to the section titled Cellular Data or Mobile Data.
4. Under your UmrahRoam eSIM profile, you will see a label for 'Current Period.' This shows the total amount of data used.
5. To get an accurate reading for your trip, it is best to scroll to the very bottom and tap 'Reset Statistics' the moment you arrive in Saudi Arabia.

For Android Users

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on Connections or Network & Internet.
3. Select Data Usage or Mobile Network.
4. Ensure your UmrahRoam eSIM is selected as the primary data SIM.
5. You will see a graph or a numerical value showing your usage for the current billing cycle or period.

Method 2: The UmrahRoam Dashboard

While phone settings track what the device thinks it has used, the UmrahRoam dashboard provides the official record from the network provider. This is the most accurate way to check your remaining balance. When you purchase a plan, you receive access to a personal dashboard where you can view your active eSIMs. This is particularly useful if you are managing multiple lines for a family. For those traveling in groups, our Family eSIM Plans for Umrah: How to Share Data article offers great tips on coordinating connectivity.

Why Traditional USSD Codes Don't Work

Many pilgrims who have previously used physical SIM cards from local providers like STC, Mobily, or Zain are accustomed to dialing a code (like *166#) to receive a text message with their balance. However, UmrahRoam eSIMs are 'data-only' plans. This means they do not come with a local Saudi phone number. While this is a major advantage for privacy—as you do not need to register your passport at a crowded airport kiosk—it means you cannot send or receive SMS or make traditional cellular calls. Consequently, USSD codes, which rely on the cellular voice network, are not functional.

Instead, you can use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Botim for all your communication needs. To understand how this affects your daily usage, read our guide on Using WhatsApp in Saudi Arabia: Does an eSIM Work?.

Understanding Data Consumption by Activity

To avoid running out of data, it helps to know how much each activity consumes. Saudi Arabia’s 5G networks are very fast, which can sometimes lead to higher data usage as apps default to high-definition streaming.

Activity	Estimated Data Usage
Nusuk App Permit Check	5-10 MB per use
Google Maps Navigation	20-50 MB per hour
WhatsApp Voice Call	0.5 MB per minute
WhatsApp Video Call	5-10 MB per minute
Social Media Scrolling	100-300 MB per hour
HD Video Streaming	1-2 GB per hour

If you find yourself running low, UmrahRoam makes it easy to top up your existing eSIM without needing to install a new one. This is much more convenient than searching for a mobile shop in the busy streets of Makkah. Before you depart, make sure to check your device compatibility to ensure your smartphone supports eSIM technology.

Network Realities: STC 5G in Makkah and Madinah

UmrahRoam utilizes the STC network, which is widely regarded as the most reliable carrier in Saudi Arabia, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan and Hajj. In the central areas surrounding the Masjid al-Haram and the Masjid an-Nabawi, STC has invested heavily in small-cell technology to handle the massive influx of pilgrims. However, during the Friday prayer or during the Hajj days in Arafat and Muzdalifah, network congestion can occur. Checking your balance during these times is best done when you are back at your hotel on a more stable connection.

Connectivity During Transit

Many pilgrims from the UK, US, and Canada fly via transit hubs like Dubai (DXB), Istanbul (IST), or Doha (DOH). One of the benefits of our global eSIM technology is that your connectivity doesn't have to start and end in Saudi Arabia. We offer plans that cover these transit stops as well. If you are stopping over in the UAE [dest:ae] or Turkey [dest:tr], you can stay connected the moment you touch down, allowing you to check your flight status or message your family without hunting for airport Wi-Fi. Following our simple setup guide before you leave home ensures a seamless transition between countries.

Comparison: eSIM vs. Local SIM vs. Home Roaming

Feature	Home Roaming	Local Physical SIM	UmrahRoam eSIM
Registration	None	Passport & Fingerprint	None
Queueing	None	1-2 Hours at Airport	Zero (Digital)
Network	Varies	STC/Mobily/Zain	STC (5G)
Cost	Very High	Moderate	Economical
Number	Home Number	Local Saudi Number	Data-Only

For most pilgrims, the convenience of the eSIM outweighs the need for a local number. You can keep your home SIM in your phone to receive important texts from back home. To learn more about this, see our article on How to Keep Your Home Number for OTPs During Umrah. For a list of other helpful tools, check out the Best Apps for Umrah Pilgrims to Download Before Travel.

What to Do if You Run Out of Data

If you check your balance and realize you are under 500MB, it is time to act. If you have a 'Daily Pass' (2GB per day), your speed will simply slow down to 512 Kbps once the limit is reached, which is still enough for basic WhatsApp messaging. However, for 'Fixed Plans' (like the 10GB or 20GB options), the data will stop completely once the quota is hit. You can quickly see plans on our website and purchase a top-up. The data will be added to your existing eSIM profile almost instantly, ensuring you are never left without a connection during your sacred journey.

The bottom line

Checking your data balance on a Saudi eSIM is a simple process that prevents the frustration of losing contact during your pilgrimage. By using your phone's internal settings or the UmrahRoam dashboard, you can stay informed and top up whenever necessary. Avoid the long queues at Jeddah airport and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reliable STC 5G connection throughout your Umrah or Hajj.