Emergency Contacts & Useful Apps
Being prepared with the right contacts and apps on your phone can make a critical difference in an emergency and will certainly make your daily life in Saudi Arabia much easier.
Saudi Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unified Emergency Number | 911 | Police, ambulance, and fire in one number. Works nationwide. |
| Ambulance / Red Crescent | 997 | Medical emergencies. Red Crescent is highly active during Hajj. |
| Police | 999 | Non-emergency police matters. |
| Fire | 998 | Fire department. |
| Traffic Accidents | 993 | Report road accidents. |
| Saudi Tourism Helpline | 930 | Tourist assistance in multiple languages. |
Save 911 and 997 in your phone before you travel. In a medical emergency during Hajj, call 997 for the Red Crescent ambulance service. Operators can usually communicate in Arabic and English.
Your Embassy/Consulate
Before travelling, note down the contact details and address of your country’s embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia. Most embassies are in Riyadh, but many countries have consulates in Jeddah (which is closest to Makkah). During Hajj season, many countries also set up temporary consular offices in Makkah and Mina.
Your embassy can help with:
- Lost or stolen passports (emergency travel documents)
- Serious medical emergencies
- Legal issues
- Contacting family back home in emergencies
Essential Apps to Download Before You Go
Nusuk
The official Saudi platform for Hajj and Umrah services. Use it to apply for Umrah visas, book Umrah permits, and access pilgrim services. This is a must-have app. Download it and create your account before departure.
Tawakkalna
Saudi Arabia’s official services app, originally developed for COVID management but now expanded to include digital ID, event tickets, and government services. It may be required for certain permits or venue access.
Google Maps
Works excellently in Saudi Arabia with accurate mapping of Makkah and Madinah, including indoor maps of some areas. Essential for navigation, finding restaurants, and locating your hotel. Download offline maps of Makkah and Madinah before travel as a backup.
Uber & Careem
Both ride-hailing apps work well in Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah. Careem (now owned by Uber) sometimes has better availability in Saudi Arabia. Set up your account and payment method before arrival.
SAR (Saudi Railways)
For booking Haramain High-Speed Rail tickets between Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah. Book in advance during peak seasons.
Other Useful Apps
- WhatsApp: The primary messaging app in Saudi Arabia. Hotels, tour operators, and taxi drivers all use it.
- Currency converter (XE or similar): Quick reference for exchange rates.
- Muslim Pro or similar: For prayer times (though you will hear the adhan everywhere in Makkah and Madinah).
- Translation app (Google Translate): Download the Arabic offline language pack for camera translation of signs.
Tip: Download all apps and offline content (maps, translation packs) before you leave home. Airport and hotel WiFi can be slow, and you want everything ready when you arrive.