The second and third largest mobile phone operators of Iran, Irancell and RighTel, respectively are providing free SIM cards to all Iranians heading for the hajj (major pilgrimage), air flights of which have commenced on August 23, according to the head of Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization, Saeed Ohadi. "Billions of rials [Iran's national currency] are spent on SIM cards offered by Saudi Arabia's telecommunications companies, hence this year, two Iranian telecom companies are offering free SIM cards with tariffs one-fifth of those offered by Saudi operators," he said. According to Fars News Agency, travelers with smartphones can also have access to Internet connections offered by Saudi Telecom Company and Zain Group—limitless and free of charge. Additionally, the Mobile Telecommunications Company of Iran is offering special packages to pilgrims that include discounts on incoming and outgoing calls as well as text messages.
