Haramain High Speed Train Bus Taxi & Private Transfers Services
Millions of Muslims travel between Makkah and Madinah each year to perform Umrah, Hajj, or visit Islam’s two holiest cities. Understanding the Makkah to Madinah distance, travel time, transportation options, and estimated costs can help you plan a smooth and comfortable journey.
Dua for Travel (دعاء السفر)
Arabic
رَّبِّ أَدْخِلْنِي مُدْخَلَ صِدْقٍ وَأَخْرِجْنِي مُخْرَجَ صِدْقٍ وَاجْعَل لِّي مِن لَّدُنكَ سُلْطَانًا نَّصِيرًا
Transliteration:
Rabbi adkhilnī mudkhala ṣidqin wa akhrijnī mukhraja ṣidqin waj‘al lī min ladunka sulṭānan naṣīrā.
Translation:
“My Lord, let my entrance be a righteous entrance and my exit a righteous exit, and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.”
(Qur’an 17:80)
Whether you prefer the Haramain High-Speed Train, a bus, taxi, or private car, each option offers different advantages in terms of speed, convenience, and budget. Knowing the available routes, ticket prices, luggage allowances, and travel durations allows you to choose the option that best suits your needs.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about traveling from Makkah to Madinah, including the road distance, train schedules, bus and taxi fares, travel tips, nearby destinations, and practical information to make your pilgrimage or visit to Saudi Arabia safe, convenient, and spiritually rewarding.
Dua for Travel (دعاء السفر)
Arabic
سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ
Transliteration:
Subḥānalladhī sakhkhara lanā hādhā wa mā kunnā lahu muqrinīn. Wa innā ilā Rabbinā lamunqalibūn.
Translation:
“Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it by ourselves. Indeed, to our Lord we shall surely return.”
(Qur’an 43:13–14)
Makkah to Madinah Distance & Travel Guide
Traveling between Makkah and Madinah is one of the most common journeys for pilgrims performing Umrah or Hajj. The distance between these two holy cities is approximately 447 km (278 miles) by road. Travelers can choose from several transportation options, including the Haramain High-Speed Train, buses, taxis, or private vehicles.
How Long Does It Take to Travel from Makkah to Madinah?
Travel time depends on the mode of transportation you choose:
| Transport | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Haramain High-Speed Train | 2 hours 20–30 minutes |
| Car / Taxi | 4–5 hours |
| Bus | 5–7 hours |
Makkah to Madinah by Haramain High-Speed Train
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Makkah and Madinah. The train travels at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and provides a comfortable, modern travel experience.
Journey Time
The train completes the journey in approximately 2 hours and 20–30 minutes, depending on the service and scheduled stops.
Haramain Train Ticket Price
Ticket prices vary depending on the travel class, booking date, and travel season.
Typical one-way fares:
- Economy Class: SAR 150–250 (approximately USD 40–67)
- Business Class: SAR 300–500 (approximately USD 80–133)
Booking tickets early is recommended, especially during Ramadan, Hajj, and school holidays, to secure the best prices.
Does the Haramain Train Serve Food?
Yes. The Haramain High-Speed Train provides onboard catering services.
Passengers can purchase:
- Hot and cold beverages
- Sandwiches
- Pastries
- Snacks
- Desserts
- Packaged refreshments
Food availability may vary depending on the route and departure time.
Haramain Train Luggage Allowance
Each passenger may carry:
- One checked bag weighing up to 25 kg
- Maximum dimensions: 65 × 55 × 35 cm
- One small hand bag, such as:
- Handbag
- Backpack
- Laptop bag
- Small carry-on
Always check the latest luggage policy before travel, as regulations may change.
Prohibited Items on the Haramain Train
For passenger safety, the following items are prohibited:
- Explosives and flammable materials
- Radioactive substances
- Corrosive chemicals
- Toxic or poisonous materials
- Oxidizing agents
- Firearms and ammunition
- Toy weapons resembling firearms
- Gas cylinders and compressed containers
- Large knives, drills, axes, or sharp tools
- Any item prohibited under Saudi law
Food and Drinks
Passengers may carry:
- Small sealed drinks in their original containers
- Properly packaged food stored securely inside luggage
Security Screening
All luggage, including laptops and electronic devices, must pass through X-ray security screening before boarding.
Makkah to Madinah by Bus
Traveling by bus is the most economical option and is widely used by pilgrims and visitors.
Bus Travel Time
Approximately 5–7 hours, depending on traffic and scheduled stops.
Bus Fare
Typical one-way fares range between:
- SAR 80–130
- Approximately USD 21–35
Several operators provide daily services between Makkah and Madinah.
Makkah to Madinah by Taxi
Taxis and private cars offer the most flexible travel option.
Travel Time
Approximately 4–5 hours.
Taxi Fare
Typical fares range from:
- SAR 350–700
- Approximately USD 95–185
Prices vary depending on:
- Vehicle type
- Time of travel
- Pickup location
- Negotiated fare
It is advisable to agree on the fare before beginning your journey.
Makkah to Jeddah Distance
Distance: Approximately 70 km (43 miles)
Travel Time:
- Car or Taxi: 45–60 minutes
- Bus: 1–1.5 hours
Jeddah serves as the main gateway to Makkah and is home to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), where millions of pilgrims arrive each year.
Makkah to Taif Distance
Distance: Approximately 87 km (54 miles) by road.
Travel Time:
- Around 1.5–2 hours by car
Taif is known for its cool climate, beautiful mountains, rose farms, and attractions such as:
- Shubra Palace
- Al-Hada Mountain Road
- Taif Rose Gardens
It is a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Can Non-Muslims Visit Madinah?
Yes. Unlike Makkah, Madinah is open to non-Muslim visitors in most areas of the city.
However, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque) has restricted areas reserved exclusively for Muslims. Visitors should always respect local regulations, dress modestly, and observe cultural guidelines.
Summary
The distance from Makkah to Madinah is approximately 447 km (278 miles). Travelers can choose from several convenient transportation options:
- Haramain High-Speed Train: Fastest option (about 2.5 hours)
- Bus: Affordable and economical
- Taxi or Private Car: Flexible and convenient
Each option offers different advantages depending on your budget, schedule, and travel preferences. Booking transportation in advance—especially during Umrah, Hajj, and Ramadan—is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Whether you’re traveling for pilgrimage or tourism, may your journey between the two holy cities be safe, peaceful, and spiritually rewarding.