Haramain high speed railway has changed Umrah travel completely. If you're coming from the UK, you'll almost certainly need to move between Makkah and Madinah at some point. And now, instead of a long desert road trip, you can do it in just over two hours on a fast, clean train.
But the train isn't your only choice. You've also got taxis, private cars, buses, and airport transfers from Jeddah. Each one suits a different type of traveller. Solo pilgrims often love the train. Big families with buggies and loads of bags often prefer a private car. We've seen both work really well.
So this guide keeps it simple. You'll get the real distances, verified 2026 prices in SAR and pounds, a clear Haramain train booking walkthrough, station details, and our honest take on what actually makes sense. If you're still sorting the wider trip, you can also look at our Umrah packages or read our guide on how to perform Umrah step by step.
Makkah to Madinah Distance – How Far Is It?
Here's the quick answer.
Makkah to Madinah is about 420 km by road. That's 261 miles. By rail, it's about 453 km, and the train usually takes around 2 hours 20 minutes.
People often overthink this part. Don't. A good mental shortcut is this: it's roughly like London to Leeds by road. But the train makes it feel much shorter. That's why the Haramain high speed railway is such a big deal for pilgrims.
| Route | Distance (km) | Distance (miles) | By Road | By Train |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah → Madinah | 420 km | 261 miles | 4–5 hours | 2h 20min |
| Madinah → Makkah | 420 km | 261 miles | 4–5 hours | 2h 20min |
| Jeddah → Makkah | 85 km | 53 miles | 1–1.5 hours | 30–55min |
| Jeddah → Madinah | 420 km | 261 miles | 4–5 hours | 1h 40min |
| Jeddah Airport → Makkah | 95 km | 59 miles | 1–1.5 hours | 50–55min |
| Jeddah Airport → Madinah | 400 km | 249 miles | 4–5 hours | About 2 hours |
| Madinah → Jeddah Airport | 400 km | 249 miles | 4–5 hours | About 2 hours |
And yes, people search for this in all sorts of ways. Makkah to Madinah distance. Makkah to Medina distance. Mecca to Medina distance. Same trip. Same answer.
Makkah to Madinah – All Transport Options Compared
Here's the full picture.
Before we go deep on each option, this table gives you the quick comparison. If you're in a rush, this is the bit you'll want to screenshot. Our pilgrims do that a lot.
| Transport | Price (SAR) | Price (£) | Time | Door-to-Door? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haramain Train (Economy) | 175–275 SAR | £35–£55 | 2h 20min | No | Speed, comfort, most travellers |
| Haramain Train (Business) | 360–380 SAR | £72–£76 | 2h 20min | No | Premium comfort, families |
| Private Taxi (sedan) | 400–550 SAR | £80–£110 | 4.5–5.5 hours | Yes | Families, elderly, lots of luggage |
| Private Taxi (7-seater) | 450–700 SAR | £90–£140 | 4.5–5.5 hours | Yes | Groups, kids, heavy bags |
| SAPTCO Bus (standard) | 85–130 SAR | £17–£26 | 5–7 hours | No | Budget solo travellers |
| SAPTCO Bus (VIP) | 150–170 SAR | £30–£34 | 5–6 hours | No | Budget with a bit more comfort |
Our honest view? For most people, the train wins.
It's quick, clean, and usually the least stressful option. But there are exceptions. If you're travelling with three children, a buggy, two big cases, hand luggage, and an elderly parent, a private taxi can be the smarter move. Trust us, we've seen families try to save a few pounds and then wish they'd just booked the car.
And if you're comparing full trip budgets, our full Umrah cost breakdown helps put these travel costs into context.
Haramain High Speed Railway – Everything You Need to Know
This is the star option.
The Haramain high speed railway is Saudi Arabia's flagship high-speed train line linking Makkah, Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, King Abdullah Economic City, and Madinah. It runs at up to 300 km/h. That's fast. Properly fast.
Before 2018, the normal way between the two Holy Cities was a long road trip. It worked, of course. But it took time, and it could be tiring after flights, Umrah, or long days in the Haram. Now? You sit down, relax, and arrive in a bit over two hours. It's one of the best changes we've seen for pilgrims in years.
What is the Haramain train?
It's a high-speed rail service built mainly for intercity travel between the western holy region of Saudi Arabia. For pilgrims, that means one big thing: smooth travel between Makkah and Madinah without the usual road fatigue.
The route has five stations:
- Makkah
- Jeddah Central
- Jeddah Airport (KAIA)
- King Abdullah Economic City
- Madinah
Most UK pilgrims use three of them. Makkah. Jeddah Airport. Madinah. That's it.
Haramain train ticket prices in 2026
Prices do move a bit.
They change by date, demand, class, and season. Ramadan and Hajj periods can push fares up. Still, even with that, economy class is usually excellent value.
| Class | Makkah ↔ Madinah | Jeddah ↔ Makkah | Jeddah ↔ Madinah |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | 175–275 SAR (£35–£55) | 50–75 SAR (£10–£15) | 125–200 SAR (£25–£40) |
| Business | 360–380 SAR (£72–£76) | 100–150 SAR (£20–£30) | 250–300 SAR (£50–£60) |
| Children under 10 | About 50% off economy / 40% off business | Same | Same |
| Infants under 2 | About 90% off | Same | Same |
For what you get, it's a bargain. And honestly? Most of our groups are surprised by how modern it feels.
Prices shown here are approximate as of May 2026. Always check the live fare before you pay. The official source is the Saudi rail booking system, and schedules can shift in peak periods.
How to do Haramain train booking
This part is easier than people expect.
- Go to the official booking platform at haj.gov.sa for official Hajj and Umrah travel information, then follow the rail booking route or use the official Haramain booking channel.
- Select your route, such as Makkah to Madinah train or Madinah to Makkah train.
- Choose the date and time that suits you.
- Pick Economy or Business class.
- Enter passenger details. Passport details are often needed for international travellers.
- Pay by debit or credit card. UK cards usually work fine.
- Receive your e-ticket and QR code by email.
Book early. Seriously.
We usually tell pilgrims to book 2 to 4 weeks ahead. During Ramadan, school holidays, and busy winter periods, seats can go fast. We've seen people leave it too late and end up paying more or taking less convenient times.
Makkah and Madinah train stations
This is where people get caught out.
The stations are not right next to the Haram areas. They're close enough for a short taxi. But not close enough to walk with luggage. So build that into your plan.
| Station | Location | Distance to Haram/Masjid | Taxi to Centre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah Station | Al Rusaifah district | 3–4 km from Masjid al-Haram | 10–15 min, 15–25 SAR (£3–£5) |
| Jeddah Central | An Nassim / Al-Sulimaniyah | Not usually used by pilgrims for Haram access | Varies |
| Jeddah Airport (KAIA) | Inside airport area | Direct airport connection | Walk from terminal area |
| KAEC | King Abdullah Economic City | Transit stop | Rarely used by pilgrims |
| Madinah Station | Al Hadra district | 8–10 km from Masjid Nabawi | 15–20 min, 20–35 SAR (£4–£7) |
So yes, you save loads of time on the main journey. But you'll still need a local taxi or Careem at each end. That's normal. And it's still far better than a five-hour road ride for most people.
What's the train like in real life?
It's genuinely good.
Economy class is comfortable. Seats are roomy enough. There are luggage areas, toilets, air conditioning, and usually a trolley service for snacks and drinks. Business class gives you more space and a quieter feel, which some families and older travellers really like.
There is usually Wi-Fi too. But don't count on it for anything important. It can be patchy. That's Saudi train Wi-Fi for you.
We also like the general ease of it. The stations are modern. Boarding is clear. Staff are used to pilgrims. And once you're on, the ride is smooth. No bumpy road. No random stop at a petrol station in the middle of nowhere. Nice and sorted.
If you're planning the rest of your stay around station access, our guides to best hotels near Haram and best hotels in Madinah can help you choose hotels with easier transfers.
Makkah to Madinah by Taxi – Prices, Booking & Tips
Taxis still have their place.
The train is better for most pilgrims. But a private taxi can be the right call if you need door-to-door ease. And for some families, it works out close in total cost once you add train tickets plus station taxis.
| Vehicle | Capacity | Price (SAR) | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard sedan | Up to 4 passengers | 400–550 SAR | £80–£110 |
| Hyundai Staria / H1 van | Up to 7 passengers | 450–700 SAR | £90–£140 |
| Toyota Hiace minivan | 11–12 passengers | 550–950 SAR | £110–£190 |
| Luxury SUV | Up to 7 passengers | 900–1,200 SAR | £180–£240 |
| Coaster minibus | Up to 21 passengers | 1,000–1,500 SAR | £200–£300 |
The road trip usually takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours. Traffic, prayer stops, and rest breaks can affect that.
A taxi makes sense if:
- you're a family of 5 or more
- you've got heavy luggage or Zamzam containers
- you're with elderly parents
- you need hotel-to-hotel service
- you're travelling at awkward hours
From our experience arranging Umrah trips for UK families, this is where taxis shine. A family we helped last winter had two toddlers, a fold-up wheelchair, and five large cases. The train would have been faster on paper. But the private van was much easier in real life.
You can book through your agent, hotel desk, or a trusted local driver. Some people use Uber or Careem for intercity travel too, though pre-booked private cars are often better value.
A few tips matter here:
- Agree the full price before you leave.
- Ask if tolls and luggage are included.
- Check the AC works well.
- Expect prices to rise in Ramadan and Hajj season.
- Keep some cash or card backup ready.
If you want help with the money side, our Saudi currency guide makes SAR to pound conversion much easier.
Makkah to Madinah by Bus – SAPTCO Prices & Schedule
This is the budget pick.
And look, it does the job. But it's not our first choice unless you're really watching every riyal.
| Type | Price (SAR) | Price (£) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard bus | 85–130 SAR | £17–£26 | 5–7 hours |
| VIP / Executive bus | 150–170 SAR | £30–£34 | 5–6 hours |
The bus is the cheapest way to do Makkah to Madinah. No doubt. But it's also the slowest. And from what our pilgrims tell us, comfort can be hit and miss.
Seats can feel cramped. Departure times aren't always as tidy as the train. And you still need a taxi from the bus station to your hotel. So the savings aren't always as big as they first look.
To be honest, if you can stretch another £15 to £30, the train is miles better. We'd usually only suggest the bus for solo budget travellers who aren't in a rush.
Jeddah Airport to Makkah – How to Get There
This bit matters a lot.
You've landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport. You're tired. Maybe you've had a delayed flight from London or Manchester. Maybe the kids are cranky. So the big question is simple: how do you get from Jeddah airport to Makkah without making life harder than it needs to be?
| Transport | Price (SAR) | Price (£) | Time | Drop-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haramain Train | 50–75 SAR | £10–£15 | 30–55 min | Makkah station, then taxi to hotel |
| Private taxi (sedan) | 250–350 SAR | £50–£70 | 1–1.5 hours | Hotel door |
| Private taxi (7-seater) | 250–400 SAR | £50–£80 | 1–1.5 hours | Hotel door |
| SAPTCO bus | 20–35 SAR | £4–£7 | 3–4 hours | Bus station, then taxi |
| Uber / Careem | 180–350 SAR | £36–£70 | 1–1.5 hours | Hotel door |
If you're travelling light, take the train. It's quick, cheap, and very easy once you know where to go. The airport station is linked into the airport setup, so you don't need a long transfer just to start the trip.
If you're with family and loads of luggage, pre-book a private taxi. That's our honest advice. Door-to-door matters more after a long flight than people think. Especially with children. Especially at 2am.
And if you're flying into Jeddah but heading to Madinah first, the train is the clear winner again.
| Transport | Price (SAR) | Price (£) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haramain Train | 125–200 SAR | £25–£40 | About 2 hours |
| Private taxi | 800–1,200 SAR | £160–£240 | 4–5 hours |
For Jeddah to Makkah, the road distance is about 85 km. From Jeddah airport to Makkah, it's about 95 km. That small difference matters when people are comparing city centre and airport routes online.
If you're still deciding when to travel, our guide on the best time to go can help you avoid the busiest periods.
Madinah to Makkah & Madinah to Jeddah Airport – Return Options
Same routes. Reverse direction.
The good news is that the return journey is just as simple. Madinah to Makkah train times and prices are usually in the same range as the outward trip. So if the train worked well for you one way, it'll probably work well the other way too.
| Transport | Madinah to Makkah Price | Price (£) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haramain Train (Economy) | 175–275 SAR | £35–£55 | 2h 20min |
| Private taxi (sedan) | 400–550 SAR | £80–£110 | 4.5–5.5 hours |
| SAPTCO bus | 85–170 SAR | £17–£34 | 5–7 hours |
| Transport | Madinah to Jeddah Airport Price | Price (£) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haramain Train | 125–200 SAR | £25–£40 | About 2 hours |
| Private taxi | 800–1,200 SAR | £160–£240 | 4–5 hours |
Leave loads of buffer time on departure day. We mean it.
If your flight from Jeddah leaves at 8pm, don't aim to arrive at 6pm. Aim much earlier. During busy periods, airport lines can be long, station access can take time, and one delay can knock everything off. We've had pilgrims tell us, "We thought four hours was too much." Then they used all four.
So play it safe. Missing your flight is far more expensive than waiting in the airport with a coffee.
Should You Visit Makkah or Madinah First?
We get asked this a lot.
There isn't one Islamic rule saying you must start in one city. This is mostly a planning choice. But from a practical point of view, we usually recommend Madinah first, then Makkah.
| Option | Makkah First | Madinah First |
|---|---|---|
| Umrah ritual order | Perform Umrah soon after arrival | Settle in Madinah first, then perform Umrah in Makkah |
| Energy levels | More tiring on day one | Often easier and calmer |
| Spiritual build-up | Direct start in Makkah | Gentle build-up in Madinah |
| Departure logistics | Easy if flying home from Jeddah | Also good if you end in Makkah |
| Most common with UK groups | Less common | Usually preferred |
Most of our groups go Madinah first. Why? Because after a UK flight, Madinah is usually calmer. You can rest, visit Masjid Nabawi, settle your body clock, and then head to Makkah ready for Umrah.
That matters. Tawaf and Sa'i involve a lot of walking. And if you've just landed, are sleep-deprived, and your suitcase still feels attached to your arm, starting with Makkah can feel full-on.
Also, ending in Makkah puts you closer to Jeddah airport. That's handy. If you want ideas for your stay, read what to do in Madinah and things to see in Makkah.
Which Transport Should YOU Choose? Our Honest Recommendation
Let's make it simple.
| Who You Are | Our Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Solo traveller | Haramain Train Economy | Fast, easy, good value |
| Couple | Haramain Train Economy | Usually best overall value |
| Family of 3–5 | Train or taxi | Depends on luggage and children |
| Large family 6+ | Private van or Hiace | One vehicle, all bags sorted |
| Elderly or wheelchair user | Private taxi | Less walking, more ease |
| Budget traveller | Bus | Cheapest option |
| Premium traveller | Train Business | More space and quiet |
| Group 10+ | Coaster minibus | Strong value per person |
For about 90% of UK pilgrims, we'd still say the same thing: take the train.
It's fast. It's affordable. And the Haramain high speed railway really is a brilliant bit of travel infrastructure. The exceptions are mostly families with heavy luggage, elderly parents, or groups who need one simple door-to-door ride.
If you're still choosing between package styles, you can compare Umrah packages UK, or look at a shorter option like the 10 Days 4 Star Umrah Package if you want a balanced trip length.
Getting Around Makkah & Madinah – Local Transport Tips
Local travel is easy.
In Makkah, Uber and Careem work well. Most short rides cost about 10 to 30 SAR, which is around £2 to £6. Near Masjid al-Haram, walking is often best if your hotel is close enough.
In Madinah, it's much the same. If you're staying near Masjid Nabawi, lots of things are walkable. That's one reason we always tell pilgrims to think hard about hotel location, not just star rating.
Download Uber and Careem before you fly. Both are useful. Careem can sometimes be a bit cheaper in Makkah. But prices change, so just check both and pick the better one.
One small tip. But it saves hassle.
Set your pickup point carefully. Around the Haram areas, roads can be restricted and drivers can struggle with vague pins. A precise map pin can save you 20 minutes of phone calls and standing in the heat. Not glamorous advice, we know. But very real.
Your Questions Answered — Makkah to Madinah Transport FAQ
Quick answers now.
How far is Makkah from Madinah?
Makkah to Madinah distance is about 420 km by road, or 261 miles. By car, it usually takes 4 to 5 hours. By train, it's about 2 hours 20 minutes. So the train cuts the travel time almost in half.
What is the Haramain high speed railway?
The Haramain high speed railway is Saudi Arabia's fast train linking Makkah, Jeddah, Jeddah Airport and Madinah. It reaches up to 300 km/h. For pilgrims, it's the easiest way to travel between the two Holy Cities. It has Economy and Business class options.
How much is the Haramain train from Makkah to Madinah?
Economy tickets are usually 175 to 275 SAR, which is about £35 to £55. Business class is about 360 to 380 SAR, or £72 to £76. Children usually get reduced fares, and infants are heavily discounted. Prices rise in busy periods.
How do I do Haramain train booking?
You can book online, through the official app, or at station kiosks. We always suggest booking 2 to 4 weeks early if you can. Ramadan and peak winter dates sell out quickly. UK debit and credit cards usually work without trouble.
How far is Jeddah airport from Makkah?
Jeddah airport to Makkah is about 95 km, or 59 miles. By taxi, it's usually 1 to 1.5 hours. By train, it's around 50 to 55 minutes including station movement. If you're travelling light, the train is usually the best value.
How much is a taxi from Makkah to Madinah?
A standard sedan is usually 400 to 550 SAR, or £80 to £110. A 7-seater is around 450 to 700 SAR, or £90 to £140. Prices can jump in Ramadan and Hajj season. Always agree the full fare before the ride starts.
Is there a bus from Makkah to Madinah?
Yes, usually through SAPTCO. Prices are about 85 to 170 SAR, or £17 to £34, depending on the bus type. Travel time is around 5 to 7 hours. It's the cheapest option, but also the slowest and least comfortable for most pilgrims.
Should I go to Makkah or Madinah first?
Most UK pilgrims go to Madinah first. It gives you time to rest, visit Masjid Nabawi, and then head to Makkah with more energy for Umrah. We usually find this works better for families and older travellers. But both routes are valid.
Can I use Uber in Makkah and Madinah?
Yes, you can. Uber and Careem both work in Makkah and Madinah. Most short city rides cost around 10 to 30 SAR. Just make sure your pickup point is pinned properly, especially near busy Haram roads.
How many trains run per day between Makkah and Madinah?
Usually around 15 to 30 trains a day, depending on the season. There are often more services in Ramadan and Hajj periods. Early morning and late evening options are common. Always check the live timetable before you travel.
If you need more prep help before you fly, our guides on Umrah packing list and planning Umrah are worth reading.
Final Thoughts
Travel between the Holy Cities is much easier now. That's the big takeaway.
For most UK pilgrims, our advice is simple: book the Haramain high speed railway in Economy class, do it a bit early, and add a short taxi at each end. It's quick, clean, affordable, and far less tiring than the road for most people.
And if you'd rather have the whole trip sorted for you, that's what we do every day. You can Browse our Umrah packages, Get a free Umrah quote, or read more on the Noor Umrah Travels blog. If you're still pricing things up, these guides may help too: best time to go and full Umrah cost breakdown.
