Middle East and North Africa

Getting around the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) offers a fascinating contrast between ancient pathways and hyper-modern infrastructure. In cities like Dubai or Doha, the driverless metro systems are world-class, with fares starting around 4 AED ($1.10 USD). Conversely, in Cairo, the metro is the fastest way to bypass legendary traffic, while Marrakesh is best explored on foot through the winding alleys of the Medina. For longer distances, the Al Boraq high-speed train in Morocco connects Tangier to Casablanca in just over two hours.

To navigate these diverse landscapes, reliable data is essential. Whether you are hailing a Careem (the region’s primary ride-hailing app) in Amman or checking the prayer times in Muscat, having a Hello eSIM ensures you are connected the moment you touch down. By activating your Hello eSIM before you land, you avoid the hassle of hunting for local SIM cards in crowded terminals. This connectivity is vital for using live maps to find hidden gems like the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo or coordinating meeting points with friends in the sprawling Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. Use the trip planning feature in Hello to keep your boarding passes and train schedules organized in one accessible place.

Dining in the MENA region is a deeply communal experience where food is an expression of hospitality. In Jordan, do not miss Mansaf, a traditional lamb dish cooked in fermented dried yogurt, usually served on a large platter for everyone to share. In Egypt, a bowl of Kushari—a hearty mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and spicy tomato sauce—will cost you roughly 30 EGP ($0.60 USD) and keep you fueled for a day of exploring the Pyramids.

Because many meals are served family-style, calculating who owes what can become complicated. The expense splitting feature in the Hello app is a lifesaver when you are sharing a massive spread of Lebanese mezze or a Moroccan tagine in a Riad. It allows you to focus on the flavors of sumac and saffron rather than the math. For a unique experience, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh at sunset to sample snails in broth or freshly pressed orange juice for about 10 MAD ($1.00 USD). Remember that while tipping (baksheesh) is common, it is always appreciated rather than strictly mandatory; keeping small change handy in your pocket is a practical move for any traveler.

Shopping in the region is an evocative experience, especially within the historic souks of Fes, Muscat, or Tunis. Bargaining is a cultural staple here; the initial price quoted is rarely the final price. A good rule of thumb is to offer about half of the starting price and work your way to a middle ground. Whether you are eyeing a hand-woven Persian rug or a small bottle of Oud perfume, the process should be friendly and respectful—often involving a cup of mint tea.

With various currencies like the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), UAE Dirham (AED), and Egyptian Pound (EGP), it is easy to lose track of your spending. Hello’s budget tracking feature allows you to input your expenses in the local currency, automatically helping you see how much you have left in your daily allowance. This is particularly helpful when navigating the high-end malls of Riyadh alongside the traditional markets. To keep your finances secure, carry a mix of cash for small vendors and cards for larger establishments. By tracking every dirham or riyal in the Hello app, you can enjoy that extra plate of Baklava or a sunset dhow cruise in Oman knowing exactly where your travel fund stands.