RIYADH — The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) has announced record data consumption and improved mobile network performance in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah during the days of Ramadan 1446H. According to CST's latest report, daily per capita data consumption in Makkah reached 1,155 MB — more than three times the global average — while Madinah recorded even higher usage at 1,481 MB per person, exceeding four times the global average. The report also highlighted significant improvements in mobile internet speeds. In Makkah, average download speeds hit 196 Mbps, representing a 10% increase from the same period last year. In Madinah, speeds surpassed 272 Mbps, marking a 26% year-on-year increase. CST noted a surge in voice call activity during the Umrah season. Makkah recorded over 355 million local calls and more than 43 million international calls. Meanwhile, Madinah registered over 205 million local calls and 20 million international calls. The commission affirmed the success of its operational plan for the Ramadan Umrah season, attributing the achievement to the continuous support and coordination between government and private sector entities dedicated to serving worshippers. CST emphasized its ongoing commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure and ensuring high-quality communication services during peak seasons, in line with the Kingdom's digital transformation goals.
