Makkah to Madinah train
The Haramain high-speed railway is the fastest way between the two holy cities. Here’s what Umrah travellers need to know.
Updated 6 October 2026
The quick facts
- Journey time
- About 2 hours 20 minutes
- Economy fare
- About SAR 150 to 175 (roughly £32 to £37)
- Business fare
- About SAR 250 to 315 (roughly £53 to £67)
- Book at
- sar.hhr.sa or the HHR app
Fares change with demand and rise in Ramadan, around Eid and at weekends. Booking two to three weeks ahead usually gets the lower fares.
Stations
Neither station is next to the mosque. Makkah station is a short taxi ride from the Haram, and Madinah station is outside the city centre, so allow time and money for a taxi to your hotel at each end. The line also stops at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which is handy if you're flying in or out of Jeddah.
Ihram if you’re going Madinah to Makkah
If you're travelling from Madinah to Makkah to perform Umrah, you pass the miqat of Dhul Hulayfah on the way. Most pilgrims put on ihram in Madinah before boarding and make their intention as the train passes the miqat.
Train, bus or taxi?
The train is the fastest and most comfortable option at about 2 hours 20 minutes. Buses and taxis take around 4 to 5 hours by road. A private car can make sense for a family with lots of luggage, as it goes hotel to hotel.
Plan it into your trip
When you search on Umrah Go, the train is included in every two-city trip, and we try both Madinah-first and Makkah-first so you can see which is cheaper for your dates.
Questions
How long is the train from Makkah to Madinah?
About 2 hours 20 minutes on the Haramain high-speed railway.
How much is the Haramain train ticket?
Economy is about SAR 150 to 175 (roughly £32 to £37) and business about SAR 250 to 315. Fares vary with demand.
Where do I book the Haramain train?
On the official site sar.hhr.sa or the HHR app.
Is the train station near the Haram?
No. You need a short taxi from Makkah station to the Haram, and from Madinah station into the city.
Do I wear ihram on the train from Madinah?
If you are going to perform Umrah, yes. Most pilgrims put on ihram in Madinah and make their intention when the train passes the miqat.