Makkah to Madinah: Train vs. Taxi vs. Bus (2026 Showdown & Prices)

Makkah to Madinah: Train vs. Taxi vs. Bus (2026 Showdown)

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

The Haramain High-Speed Train is a marvel of engineering. It hits 300 km/h and connects the Holy Cities in under 2.5 hours.

But is it the best choice for you?

For solo travelers, yes. For families? Maybe not. In this guide, we break down the real costs, travel times, and "hassle factors" of taking the train versus a private taxi or bus in 2026.

Quick Comparison Table

| Feature | Haramain Train 🚄 | Private Taxi (GMC) 🚙 | SAPTCO Bus 🚌 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Travel Time | 2.5 hrs (+ 2 hrs transfers) | 4.5 - 5 hrs (Direct) | 6 - 7 hrs | | Cost (1 Pax) | SAR 170 - 230 | SAR 700 (Vehicle) | SAR 80 - 120 | | Cost (5 Pax) | SAR 1,000+ | SAR 700 (Total) | SAR 500 | | Door-to-Door? | No (Station to Station) | Yes (Hotel to Hotel) | No (Station to Station) | | Luggage | Strict Limits | Unlimited (within reason) | Standard Limits |

✅ Check Private Taxi Availability →

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1. The Haramain Train Experience

The Good:

• Speed: It's fast. Very fast.
• Comfort: Clean seats, cafeteria, prayer area.
• Punctuality: Leaves exactly on time.

The Bad (The "Last Mile" Problem): The train stations are far from the Haram.

• Makkah Station: ~15-20 mins taxi ride to Haram.
• Madinah Station: ~20-30 mins taxi ride to Haram.

The Hidden Cost: You need to pay for a taxi to the station, then the train ticket, then another taxi to your hotel. For a family of 5, this adds up to SAR 1,200+ and involves loading/unloading luggage 3 times.

2. The Private Taxi (GMC/SUV) Experience

The Good:

• Convenience: The driver picks you up from your hotel lobby and drops you at your next hotel lobby. Zero walking.
• Privacy: It's just you and your family. You can recite Quran, sleep, or stop for food whenever you want.
• Cost-Effective: For groups of 3 or more, it is cheaper than the train.

The Bad:

• Time: It takes longer (approx. 4.5 hours).

Why Families Choose Taxi: Imagine dragging 4 suitcases and 2 kids through a train station, security checks, and taxi queues. Now imagine sitting in a plush GMC Yukon while a driver handles everything. That's why families choose UmrahTransit.

3. The SAPTCO Bus Experience

The Good:

• Price: It's the cheapest option.

The Bad:

• Comfort: It's a bus. It takes a long time, makes stops, and isn't private.

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Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Choose the Train If:

• You are traveling alone or as a couple.
• You have very light luggage (backpacks).
• You prioritize speed over convenience.

Choose a Private Taxi If:

• You are a family (3+ people).
• You have elderly parents or young children.
• You have heavy luggage.
• You want a stress-free, door-to-door experience.

Don't struggle with suitcases. Let us drive you.

👉 Book Your Door-to-Door Transfer (SAR 450+)