For the millions of Muslims who travel to and between the two holiest sites in Islam (Makkah and Madinah) where they may only undertake the journey a few times in a lifetime, Saudi Arabia’s new rail network has significantly facilitated, accelerated and made such journeys more comfortable. The Haramain High-Speed Railway is arguably the best mode of travel to achieve this journey.
This guide is intended for people who want to know how to get from Madinah to Mecca by train.
A useful guide for anyone who wants to know more about cruising. Whether you are planning a cruise or booking activities on board this guide will help you to plan your trip or inform you of where and how you can purchase tickets.
Overview of the Haramain High-Speed Railway
This is a very high tech train in the Middle East. The line runs between 3 cities, Madinah, Jeddah, and Mecca, as well as a stop very close to King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). It will handle millions of travel to and from Hajj and Umrah as well as regular commuters. This is a huge step in the travel and transport industry in Saudi Arabia.
Trains on the new line are expected to travel at a speed of up to 300 km/h. The trip from the Prophet Muhammad’s burial place in Madinah, considered the second holiest place of Islam, to Islam’s holiest site in Mecca is expected to take two to 2.5 hours. Currently, the trip by road takes five to six hours depending on traffic.
Key Benefits of Taking the Train
1. Speed and Efficiency
For those who are in a rush and running out of time whilst on the Hajj pilgrimage, this train is a very efficient way of getting to your destination in a very short timeframe, and is also very comfortable. The train connects two cities and is a convenient way for travelers.
2. Exceptional Comfort
Comfortable seated travel with plenty of room between each seat, air-conditioned fully enclosed cabins and a smooth ride make travel by sea unique and enjoyable. Economy and business class seating options are available on all vessels to provide comfort at a range of prices.
3. Reliable Scheduling
While with road transport, you can pretty much run to your own timetable, with a train, you run to a published timetable and are not always able to avoid being late.
4. Eco-Friendly Travel
Our rail travel is eco-friendly in comparison to car and bus travel. By travelling with us, you will be reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
5. Safety Standards
The Haramain Railway project uses the latest technology to offer safe and secure trips to passengers, as it applies global safety standards and specifications while meeting the requirements of safety codes.
Why Pilgrims Prefer the Train
For those performing Umrah or Hajj, the entire journey to and from Umrah or Hajj is considered part of the spirituality and consciousness of the pilgrims. Taking the train from Madinah to Mecca or from Mecca back to Madinah saves the passengers a lot of hassle and stress, so that they may use their time in Lobu Lobu more productively in worship.
All of our tour packages can start and finish at train stations, which are handily located near many hotels and sacred venues. This will save so much time and hassle for and from your touring holiday.
Ticket Options and Pricing
Travelers can choose between:
Economy Class: Affordable and comfortable seating
We recommend sitting in Business Class with its spacious seating, ample legroom and luxury amenities.
Fares for this route may vary, so we recommend checking with us for the latest prices. However, fares tend to increase during Ramadan and Hajj season, so book early to avoid high prices.
For up to date ticket prices and timetable information as well as how to book your places on the train please see our Madinah to Mecca train page.
How to Book Your Tickets
- Visit a trusted booking platform
- Select your departure and arrival stations
- Choose your travel date and time
- Pick your preferred class
- Complete the payment process
Your E-tickets will be available for instant download as part of your confirmation e-mail once payment has been received.
Stations and Accessibility
The main stations for this route are:
Madinah Station
Mecca Station
The two new airports have been built using modern and efficient designs. The new airports are equipped with latest facilities such as waiting areas for passengers, prayer rooms, spaces for keeping luggage, and retail shops and food and beverages outlets.
Practical Travel Tips
We have a section of our website dedicated to travel advice for people visiting countries around the world related to a health issue. It may be worth having a look at this before you travel. It is also worth packing some medication and some insect repellent for your trip.
We recommend that customers arrive at the station early for boarding. This means arriving at the station between 30 to 60 minutes prior to departure. This will allow time to park, purchase any tickets that have not been pre-booked and board the train.
Plan Your Travel: Pack no more than you need to carry on the train, as you can leave most luggage at each station for the return journey.
Please have your photo id and ticket ready so we can quickly advise you of pick up event information as you walk up to the pick up table.
Even before you pick out your dream outfit, make sure you know what the airline allows.
Stay Hydrated: Especially important given the region’s climate
Comparing Train vs Other Transport Options
| Transport Method | Travel Time | Comfort | Cost | Reliability |
| Train | 2–2.5 hrs | High | Medium | High |
| Car | 5–6 hrs | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Bus | 6+ hrs | Low | Low | Low |
Final Thoughts
This is a landmark for transport in the Kingdom and has revolutionised the way that millions of people travel to and from Madinah and Mecca on the various pilgrimages and for holidaymaker’s that travel to these destinations. It offers a stress free, comfortable and punctual method of travel for all.
For a full guide to routes and fares as well as travel tips, see our Madinah to Mecca train guide.
