Hajj Transportation 2026: Compare Trains, Buses & Private Cars

Part 1: From Jeddah Airport (JED) to Makkah

The distance from King Abdulaziz International Airport to Makkah is approximately 95 km, with journey times typically ranging from 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic and time of year. During Hajj season, expect longer travel times due to increased congestion.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Northwest Bus (SAPTCO): The most economical option.
  • Cost: Approximately SAR 40–60 per person.
  • Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Pros: Very affordable; buses run regularly from the airport to Jarwal Bus Station in Makkah.
  • Cons: Drops you at a central bus station, requiring additional transport (taxi or walk, approximately 10 minutes, potentially uphill) to hotels near the Haram. Can be extremely crowded during Hajj season with limited luggage space.

Convenient Options

• Haramain High-Speed Railway (HHR): Modern, efficient, and reliable.
  • Cost: Approximately SAR 90–120 per person.
  • Duration: Train journey takes about 54 minutes to Makkah station.
  • Pros: Very fast and comfortable; air-conditioned; luggage-friendly.
  • Cons: Requires a short taxi ride from airport terminal to the King Abdulaziz Airport train station, and another taxi from Makkah station to your hotel. Can be crowded during Hajj season—book tickets in advance.
• Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Careem) or Taxi: Direct door-to-door service.
  • Cost: Taxis range from SAR 200–300. Ride-hailing apps typically SAR 150–260.
  • Duration: 60–120 minutes, depending on traffic and Hajj crowds.
  • Pros: Door-to-door service; easy to book via apps or airport taxi ranks; handles luggage well.
  • Cons: Prices can surge significantly during Hajj season; traffic delays common; negotiating fares with traditional taxis may be required; app availability can be limited during peak times.
• Pre-Booked Airport Transfers (Klook): Reserve guaranteed transportation in advance with verified drivers and vehicles.
  • Cost: Approximately SAR 180-300 depending on vehicle type (sedan, SUV, or van options available).
  • Duration: 60–120 minutes direct to your Makkah hotel.
  • Pros: Book before arrival with instant confirmation; fixed pricing with no negotiation needed; English-speaking drivers; meet and greet service at airport arrivals; vehicle options for families and groups; 24/7 customer support; luggage assistance included; no surge pricing during peak Hajj times; flight tracking (driver adjusts for delays); especially valuable for late-night arrivals or travelers with children.
  • Cons: Must book at least 24-48 hours in advance; less flexible than on-demand ride apps if plans change; cancellation policies vary by provider; slightly more expensive than ride-hailing during off-peak times.

  Book Jeddah Airport Transfer →

• Book Jeddah Airpot Transfer Through Get your guide →

Pro Tip: Pre-booking is especially valuable during Hajj season when on-demand transportation becomes scarce and expensive. Arriving pilgrims can face 2-4 hour waits for taxis during peak arrival times.

Part 2: From Makkah to Madinah

The distance between the two holy cities is approximately 435 km. The train is highly recommended for this journey, offering speed and comfort.

Note for Hajj Pilgrims: Most Nusuk packages include intercity transportation. Verify your package details before booking additional transport.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Northwest Bus (SAPTCO): The cheapest overland option.
  • Cost: Approximately SAR 110–180 per person.
  • Duration: 6 to 7 hours.
  • Pros: Very cost-effective; multiple daily departures.
  • Cons: Significantly longer travel time; less comfortable than the train; limited space during Hajj season; stops for prayer breaks add time.

Convenient Options

• • Haramain High-Speed Railway (HHR): Generally considered the best option.
    • Cost: Approximately SAR 130–330 per person, depending on booking time and ticket class.
    • Duration: Train journey is about 2.5 hours.
    • Pros: Fastest option (total travel time approximately 3.5 hours including transfers); comfortable and modern; air-conditioned; prayer facilities on board; luggage-friendly.
    • Cons: Requires separate taxi transfers from Makkah hotel to station, and from Madinah station to hotel; tickets can sell out during Hajj season—book well in advance; may face crowds at stations.
  • Private Taxi/Car Service: Direct, personalized transport.
    • Cost: Approximately SAR 500–700 for the vehicle (not per person).
    • Duration: 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
    • Pros: Door-to-door service; ideal for families or large groups with luggage; drivers accommodate prayer breaks; flexible departure time; can split cost among group members.
    • Cons: Most expensive option per vehicle; safety can be a concern if drivers speed; quality varies significantly between drivers; negotiating can be challenging; limited availability during peak Hajj season.
    • Book private transfer with Get your Guide Makkah-Madinah  →
  • Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Klook): Skip the uncertainty of hiring taxis and book verified intercity transport.
    • Cost: SAR 450–700 per vehicle (comparable to private taxis but with guaranteed service).
    • Duration: 4.5-5.5 hours direct between cities.
    • Pros: Pre-arranged with professional, vetted drivers; transparent fixed pricing; online customer reviews; English communication available; flexible departure times; door-to-door hotel service; safer alternative to negotiating with unknown taxi drivers; prayer break accommodations; instant booking confirmation; 24/7 customer support.
    • Cons: Similar price point to regular taxis; must book in advance; less spontaneous than arranging on arrival.

    Book Makkah-Madinah Transfer →

Part 3: Transportation During Hajj Days

Important: Transportation between Hajj sites (Mina, Arafah, Muzdalifah) is typically included in your Nusuk package. DO NOT book separate transport for these movements unless you have confirmed your package does not include them.

Included in Most Hajj Packages:

• Bus transportation from Makkah to Mina (Day of Tarwiyah)
• Bus transportation from Mina to Arafah (Day of Arafah)
• Transportation to Muzdalifah (night of 9th-10th)
• Return transportation to Mina
• Transportation for Tawaf al-Ifadah (if scheduled by your package)

If You Need Independent Transport During Hajj:

Walking: Many pilgrims walk between Hajj sites. Distances:

• Makkah to Mina: 8 km (walkable for healthy pilgrims)
• Mina to Arafah: 14 km (long but doable)
• Arafah to Muzdalifah: 9 km (commonly walked)

During Hajj season: Roads are heavily restricted. Only authorized Hajj buses can operate. Independent taxis and ride-hailing services face severe limitations.

Part 4: From Madinah Airport to City Center

Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport is approximately 15-20 km from the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi).

Transportation Options:

• Taxi/Ride-Hailing:
  • Cost: SAR 80–150
  • Duration: 20-30 minutes
• Pre-Booked Airport Transfer:
  • Cost: SAR 100–200
  • Duration: 20-30 minutes
  • Benefits: Meet and greet; guaranteed service; English-speaking driver

  Book Madinah Airport Transfer →

Essential Transportation Tips for Hajj Pilgrims

Before You Travel:

• ✓ Verify what’s included in your Nusuk package – Most packages include intercity transport and Hajj site transportation
• ✓ Book airport transfers in advance – Especially during Hajj season when arrivals are concentrated
• ✓ Download transportation apps – Uber, Careem, and Haramain Railway app
• ✓ Save important addresses in Arabic – Hotel addresses, train station names
• ✓ Keep emergency cash – Not all transport accepts cards

During Hajj Season Specifically:

•  Expect major crowds – Transportation during Hajj is exponentially more crowded than regular times
•  Build in extra time – Journeys can take 2-3x longer during peak Hajj days
•  Stay with your group – Losing your group in transportation hubs is common
•  Keep documents accessible – Hajj permit, passport, hotel address
•  Book train tickets early – Haramain trains sell out weeks in advance during Hajj

Health and Safety:

•  Carry water – Transportation delays are common; stay hydrated
•  Protect from heat – Saudi summers are extremely hot; use umbrellas when waiting
•  Travel in groups when possible – Especially at night
•  Keep phone charged – Essential for navigation and group communication
•  Bring medications – Long journeys may cause discomfort

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is transportation included in my Hajj package?

A: Most Nusuk packages include transportation between Makkah and Madinah, and all transportation during the Hajj days (Mina, Arafah, Muzdalifah). However, airport transfers to/from your hotel may not be included, especially if you arrive before or depart after your package dates. Always verify in writing.

Q: When should I book airport transfers?

A: Book at least 2-3 weeks before Hajj season, or as soon as you have your flight details. During peak Hajj arrival days, on-demand transportation can be unavailable for hours.

Q: Can I use Uber or Careem during Hajj?

A: Yes, but with limitations. During the main Hajj days (8th-13th Dhul Hijjah), road restrictions are severe and ride-hailing may not be available near Hajj sites. They work normally in Makkah and Madinah outside the restricted zones.

Q: Is it safe to walk between Hajj sites?

A: Yes, many pilgrims walk, and special pedestrian paths are provided. However, consider the heat, your physical condition, and time constraints. The walk from Mina to Arafah (14 km) in summer heat is very challenging.

Q: How early should I arrive at the train station?

A: Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before departure during Hajj season. Security checks and crowds mean boarding takes longer than usual.

Conclusion: Plan Your Transportation Wisely

Transportation during Hajj requires more planning than regular travel. The combination of millions of pilgrims, extreme heat, and time-sensitive rituals means that good transportation decisions directly impact your Hajj experience.

Key takeaways:

• Verify what’s included in your Nusuk package before booking additional transport
• Pre-book airport transfers during Hajj season—don’t rely on finding transport on arrival
• The Haramain Railway is the best option for intercity travel when available
• Build extra time into all journeys during Hajj season
• Stay with your group during transportation to avoid getting lost
• Keep emergency contact information and addresses in Arabic

Proper transportation planning removes one of the biggest logistical stressors of Hajj, allowing you to focus on the spiritual journey ahead.

May Allah accept your Hajj and make your journey easy and blessed. Ameen.

Quick Reference: Transportation Costs

May your Hajj be accepted, and may Allah grant you His mercy, forgiveness, and countless blessings. Ameen.

For more Hajj preparation resources, visit our Hajj Preparation Hub.