ISLAMABAD: Despite the availability of pre-activated Sims for Haj pilgrims, telecom firms have launched competitive one-month packages that would cost less than Saudi Arabian Sims.

Under a new facility for pilgrims this year, every individual performing Haj under the government scheme will be provided with one Ufone Sim containing eight GB data and 200 calling minutes.

While Ufone will provide Sims to 89,600 Haj pilgrims, other mobile operators have launched their packages for an equal number of pilgrims proceeding under the private scheme.

In a departure from its past practice, Zong has not launched any Haj package this year.

Jazz, the largest cellular network company in the country, has offered the most expensive package — two 2GB for Rs3,500 (30 days) and 8GB for Rs8,500 (45 days).

Telenor has also launched a package for its pre-paid customers. Known as ‘Saudia Bundle’, it offers 1GB internet, 30 minutes of talk time and 30 SMS, for Rs799.

Ufone has introduced an IR package for 30 days offering 300 MBs and 30 minutes talk time at Rs999. The other package costs Rs2,900 and offers 1.5GB internet and 120 minutes talk time.

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2024