Traveling between the holy cities of Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah (Medina) is one of the most important journeys during Umrah or Hajj.It is a sacred journey pilgrims worldwide require a safe, reliable and comfortable taxi service so that they can complete this journey easily with no stress.
It is a comprehensive guide that will tell you all about Makkah to Madinah Umrah Taxi, such as distance, time taken to travel, cost, the type of vehicles, booking, safety tips, frequently asked questions, and all other important details you need to know.
Why Pilgrims Choose Taxi Service for Makkah to Madinah
Many pilgrims prefer taxis over buses or trains for their journey because:
- Door-to-door convenience – Pickup directly from hotel or Haram area.
- Privacy & comfort – Ideal for families, elderly, and children.
- Flexible timing – Leave anytime without waiting for bus/train schedules.
- Direct route – No stops unless you request them.
- Luggage support – Easier handling of personal bags and zamzam bottles.
For many, choosing a dedicated taxi means more time for worship and less worry about logistics.
Distance and Travel Time from Makkah to Madinah
Distance
- The journey between Makkah to Madinah Umrah Taxi is around 430–450 km, depending on the route chosen.
- The most common route is the Haramain Expressway which offers a smooth and faster ride.
Travel Time
- Average duration: 4 to 5 hours by taxi.
- Factors affecting travel time:
- Traffic conditions.
- Season (Ramadan and Hajj peak times may cause delays).
- Stops for prayer, food, or rest.
- Traffic conditions.
Taxi Fare and Cost Guide
Taxi fares vary depending on the vehicle type, number of passengers, and season. Below is a breakdown:
Table: Approximate Taxi Fares (One Way – Makkah to Madinah)
Vehicle Type | Capacity | Comfort Level | Fare (SAR) | Best For |
Standard Sedan (Camry, Sonata) | 3–4 passengers | Economy | 400–550 SAR | Small groups, budget travel |
SUV / Family Car (Innova, Fortuner) | 6–7 passengers | Comfortable | 600–800 SAR | Families with kids & luggage |
Hiace Van / Coaster | 8–14 passengers | Spacious | 700–1000+ SAR | Large families & group pilgrims |
Luxury Cars (Lexus, GMC, Mercedes) | 3–5 passengers | Premium | 1000–1500+ SAR | VIP, executives, luxury seekers |
💡 Note: Prices may increase during Ramadan, Hajj season, or peak weekends. Always confirm fare before booking.
Factors That Affect Taxi Fares
Several factors can influence the cost of your journey:
- Vehicle type – Standard sedans are cheapest, luxury cars are most expensive.
- Passenger count – Larger groups require vans or SUVs.
- Seasonal demand – Ramadan and Hajj season see higher prices.
- Pickup location – Hotels near Haram are standard, but pickups outside central areas may add cost.
- Additional stops – Extra ziyarat stops (Quba Mosque, Qiblatain, Uhud Mountain) may cost extra.
Taxi vs. Other Transport Options
Many pilgrims wonder whether to take a taxi, bus, or train. Here’s a comparison:
Table: Taxi vs. Train vs. Bus
Transport Option | Travel Time | Fare (Approx) | Pros | Cons |
Taxi | 4–5 hrs | 400–1000 SAR | Door-to-door, flexible, private | More expensive for solo travelers |
High-Speed Train (Haramain) | 2 hrs | 150–250 SAR per ticket | Fast, comfortable, modern | Must travel to station, luggage limits, fixed schedule |
Bus / Group Transport | 6–7 hrs | 80–150 SAR per seat | Cheapest, social experience | Long travel time, less comfort, fixed stops |
👉 If you are traveling as a family or group, a taxi is often the best choice due to convenience and luggage support.
Types of Taxis Available
Depending on your needs, different vehicle types are available:
1. Standard Sedans
- Models: Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata.
- Capacity: 3–4 passengers.
- Best for couples or small groups.
2. Family SUVs
- Models: Toyota Innova, Fortuner, Suburban.
- Capacity: 6–7 passengers.
- Best for families with children and luggage.
3. Vans and Coasters
- Models: Toyota Hiace, Coaster.
- Capacity: 8–14 passengers.
- Best for large groups or group Umrah tours.
4. VIP & Luxury Cars
- Models: Lexus, Mercedes, GMC.
- Premium comfort and style.
- Best for VIPs, corporate groups, or those seeking extra comfort.
How to Book a Makkah to Madinah Taxi
Booking a taxi is simple, and there are multiple ways:
1. Hotel Concierge
- Most hotels in Makkah can arrange taxis directly.
- Reliable but may cost slightly more.
2. Taxi Stands
- Available near Haram and busy areas.
- Immediate availability but prices may vary.
3. Online Taxi Services
- Book via websites or WhatsApp.
- Option to choose vehicle type, confirm fare in advance.
4. Advance Booking vs. On-Spot Hiring
- Advance Booking: Best for families, ensures car availability.
- On-Spot: Flexible but may face higher charges during peak hours.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
To make your Makkah to Madinah Umrah Taxi comfortable:
- Always confirm the fare before departure.
- Choose a licensed taxi driver or trusted service.
- Request a clean and air-conditioned vehicle.
- Carry cash in Saudi Riyals as some drivers don’t accept cards.
- Plan for short stops for prayer or refreshments.
- Ensure the driver knows your exact drop-off point in Madinah.
- For elderly or children, request frequent rest breaks.
Safety and Reliability
When booking a Umrah taxi service, always prioritize safety and trustworthiness:
- Use registered and licensed drivers.
- Ask for a receipt or booking confirmation.
- Avoid unmarked or unauthorized taxis.
- Share your journey details with family for peace of mind.
- During peak season, pre-book to avoid last-minute issues.
Travel Experience – What to Expect on the Road
- Scenic Views: The desert route offers stunning landscapes, mountains, and endless skies.
- Rest Areas: Petrol stations and food outlets available along the highway.
- Prayer Breaks: Drivers usually stop at mosques for salah.
- Comfort: Spacious vehicles allow rest, reading Quran, or quiet reflection during travel.
Conclusion
Taxi ride between Makkah to Madinah Umrah Taxi is among the most convenient, accommodative, and trustworthy modes of transport among pilgrims. Regardless of whether you are going solo, in a family, or in a group, taxis are private, convenient, and worry-free so that you can concentrate on your spiritual journey.
Having accurate fare estimates, a variety of booking services, and reliable services, hiring a taxi is guaranteed to make the trip between the two sacred cities advantageous.
FAQs
One-way taxi costs have an average of SAR 400-1000 depending on the type of vehicle, season, and passengers.
Road transport to Madinah is normally 4 to 5 hours long, depending on the traffic, rest stops, and the route taken in Makkah to Madinah.
Yes, the majority of the taxi services provide the ability to book a ticket round trip. Others even give lower fares when make advance bookings.
Yes, there are licensed cabs which are available at all times. But it is advisable to make reservations during Ramadan and Hajj seasons.
Yes, the majority of the drivers do not mind making short pauses in order to pray, eat, or observe ziyarat places. This is best to make sure of prior to booking so as to avoid unnecessary costs.