With Hajj 2025 in full swing, every other pilgrim is wondering: how do I get from one holy city to the next without burning a hole in my pocket?
If you’re anything like me last year, you probably landed in KSA bleary-eyed, carrying a bag half your size, and totally clueless about the commute. I remember dragging my luggage out of the airport terminal, blinking into the hot sun, and asking a random taxi driver, “How much to Makkah?” (Spoiler alert: it wasn’t cheap)
In the chaos of performing Hajj (emotionally and physically intense) no one really has the time to stop, Google ten options, compare fares, and figure out luggage allowances.
That’s exactly why I decided to write this blog. Let me walk you through everything I wish I knew when searching for affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah; what works, what’s worth it, and what you should skip.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Travel Between Makkah and Medina?
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is your best bet. It’s fast, clean, and surprisingly affordable; starting from just SAR 95 if you book early. The ride takes only 2.5 hours and connects both holy cities with minimal hassle during Hajj season.
The Holy Commute: Why It Matters
Whether you’re heading from Makkah to Madinah after completing Hajj or starting your journey the other way around, your transport choice plays a huge role. Affordability is just one factor; you also want comfort, punctuality, safety, and some peace of mind.
So, let’s dive right into it.
Haramain High-Speed Railway: Fast, Reliable & Surprisingly Affordable
Hands down, this is the best affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah. The Haramain High-Speed Railway is a lifesaver for pilgrims. Sleek, air-conditioned, with clean bathrooms (yes, a huge plus), and reliable schedules, this is the Saudi answer to bullet trains and it’s actually budget-friendly.
Why Choose Haramain?
- Frequency: Up to 50 trips daily.
- Speed: Covers the 450+ km in just 2.5 hours.
- Cleanliness: Supervised regularly. (No snack crumbs from last year!)
Pricing of Haramain High-Speed Railway:
| Makkah to Jeddah | Economy: 40 SAR | Business: 90 SAR |
| Jeddah to Madinah | Economy: 150 SAR | Business: 455 SAR |
| Makkah to Madinah | Economy: 125 SAR | Business: 375 SAR |
Affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah doesn’t get better than this.
5 Major Stations:
1. Makkah Station: Ar Rusayfah District, 3.5 km from Masjid Al-Haram.
2. Jeddah Station (Al-Sulimaniyah): Near An Nassim District.
3. KAIA Station: Inside King Abdulaziz International Airport.
4. KAEC Station: Close to King Abdullah Port.
5. Madinah Station: Al Hadra District, about 9 km from Masjid An-Nabawi.
Discounts:
Not only this, the train also offers great discounts like:
- 50% off for children (economy), 40% (business)
- 90% off for infants (sharing seat)
- 50% discount for people with special needs
Booking:
There are a couple of ways you can book tickets for the high-speed train, such as:
- Online: sar.hhr.sa
- Ticket counters or vending machines at stations
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll recommend it to others for affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah.
SAPTCO Bus Services: Budget-Friendly and Widely Available
If you’re looking for the most affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah, this is it. SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) operates intercity buses that are surprisingly punctual and comfortable.
Features:
SAPTCO is not only an affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah but also offers great services:
- Reclining seats
- Air-conditioning
- USB charging ports
- Luggage space under the bus
Pricing:
- Makkah to Madinah: From 80 to 100 SAR
- Travel time: 6 to 7 hours depending on stops and traffic
There are premium options like the SAPTCO VIP bus, which cost a bit more (around 140 SAR) but come with fewer passengers and extra legroom. If you’re a family, this might still be a good way to enjoy affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah without breaking the bank.
Booking:
There are a couple of ways you can book tickets for this affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah:
- Website: saptco.com.sa
- Mobile app
- At the terminal counter
Avoid peak travel hours post-Hajj. Buses fill up fast and delays are common.
Car Rentals and Ride Shares: For Families and Groups
Now, if you’re traveling with a larger group or family, pooling in for a rental car or ride-share might make more sense.
Costs:
- Rental: From 250 SAR/day plus fuel
- Ride-share (Careem/Uber): Around 500-600 SAR for one-way travel
While this isn’t the most obvious pick for affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah, if you split the cost among 4-5 people, it can be quite reasonable. Plus, it offers unmatched flexibility.
Double-check car rental agencies for Hajj-specific packages. Some even offer preloaded navigation for holy sites and multilingual assistance.
Looking for Budget Eats in KSA? These Food Spots in Makkah Are Under 20 SAR
Domestic Flights: Fastest, But Not Always Affordable
Flying is obviously the fastest way to get from Makkah (via Jeddah Airport) to Madinah. But during Hajj season, flight prices can fluctuate like crazy.
Average Prices:
For Jeddah to Medina flight, the price could range from 150 to 400 SAR depending on demand
The challenge? Luggage limits, long check-in lines, and potential delays. Also, remember you’ll need a cab to and from airports.
Best For:
- Elderly pilgrims who can’t handle long road trips
- People short on time
This isn’t typically considered affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah, but with early booking and deals, it’s worth checking.
P.S. Your Guide To Affordable Hotels Near Masjid al-Haram
Private Hajj Shuttles (Tour Operator Transport)
A lot of tour operators bundle your transport between Makkah and Madinah into their packages; via buses or vans. If you’ve booked with a licensed Hajj operator, confirm if this is included.
It may not be the most independent way to travel, but if convenience is king for you, this is a hassle-free form of affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah.
What I Wish I Knew Before
A friend of mine paid over 600 SAR for a sketchy taxi ride from Madinah to Makkah because she didn’t know about the Haramain train. And I once saw a group of Turkish pilgrims get scammed by a man pretending to be an SAPTCO agent outside the terminal.
Lesson? Always book through official sites. Always confirm the pickup location. And always carry screenshots or printouts.
First Time Haji? Read this: 10 Things Every First-Time Hajj Pilgrim Should Know
Luggage and Travel Docs Checklist
No matter which affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah you pick, have these ready:
- Passport
- Hajj permit
- Vaccination certificate
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Train/bus/flight ticket
- Power bank
- Snacks and water
- Light travel bag (trust me, don’t bring your entire closet)
Need full packing checklist? Read this: Essential Hajj Packing Checklist 2025
Final Thoughts
When it comes to affordable travel between Makkah and Madinah, you’re spoiled for choice but only if you know where to look. Personally, I’ll always vote for the Haramain High-Speed Railway for its comfort, cost, and efficiency. But buses and ride-shares have their place too, especially for budget or family groups.
So, before you hop on a random cab or stress over your next move, take a deep breath, revisit this guide, and remember: Hajj is a journey of faith, your transport shouldn’t be a test of patience.
