Most Umrah pilgrims visit both holy cities, and the 450 kilometre journey between Makkah and Madinah is one of the biggest decisions of the trip. You can go by private taxi, by the Haramain high-speed train or by bus. Each works, but they suit different travellers. Here is how they compare.
The route at a glance
Makkah and Madinah are about 450 kilometres apart by road. In a private car the journey takes roughly four and a half to five hours including a short stop. The train is faster on the track, but you also have to reach the station and travel on from the other end, which adds time and effort.
Option 1: Private taxi
A private taxi collects you from your Makkah hotel and drops you at your Madinah hotel. You choose the departure time, load your own luggage once and unload it once. The driver can stop for prayers, food or rest, and families with children or elderly relatives are not rushed.
At BestWay Transport the Makkah to Madinah transfer starts from SAR 380 for a sedan, SAR 400 for a Hyundai Staria, SAR 500 for a Toyota Hiace, SAR 800 for a GMC Yukon XL and SAR 775 for a Toyota Coaster. These prices are per vehicle. Seven people sharing a Staria pay around SAR 57 each, and ten people sharing a Hiace pay SAR 50 each.
Option 2: Haramain high-speed train
The Haramain train links Makkah, Jeddah and Madinah and is a fast, comfortable way to travel between the cities. Its stations are outside the city centres, so you still need a taxi at each end to reach your hotel, and you need to be at the station in good time with your bags.
Train fares and schedules change, so check the current timetable and prices when you plan. If you do take the train, we offer fixed-price taxi transfers to and from both the Makkah and Madinah stations.
Option 3: Bus
Buses are usually the cheapest option per person, but they run to a fixed timetable, make stops along the way and often end at a terminal rather than your hotel. With heavy luggage, children or mobility needs, the extra handling and waiting can be tiring.
Comparing the three
A simple way to decide is to think about who is travelling:
- Solo traveller on a tight budget: a bus or the train can work if you travel light.
- Couple or small family with luggage: a private taxi is simple and the cost per person is reasonable.
- Elderly parents, children or wheelchair users: a private taxi with rest stops is the most comfortable.
- Large group or travel agent: a Hiace or Coaster keeps everyone together and is good value per person.
Adding Badr to your journey
If you want to visit the Badr battlefield, a private car is the easiest way. Badr lies roughly between the two cities, so the driver can stop there and wait while you visit. Our via Badr transfer starts from SAR 450 for a sedan and adds a few hours to the trip. This is not practical by train or bus.
Going from Madinah to Makkah for Umrah
Many pilgrims visit Madinah first and then travel to Makkah to perform Umrah. If you plan to enter ihram on the way, the Miqat for people coming from Madinah is Masjid Dhul Hulayfah, also known as Abyar Ali. Tell your driver when you book so the stop is planned, and allow around half an hour for ghusl, ihram clothing and prayer.
Practical tips for the trip
Check out of your hotel before the driver arrives so you leave on time. Travel in the morning where possible so you reach the city by afternoon. Keep water, snacks and any medicines in your hand luggage. Carry your passport and hotel confirmation for the destination, as you may be asked for them at checkpoints.