The Makkah to Jeddah journey is among the most significant journeys made by millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. Be it going to Umrah, Hajj or just visiting the holy city, it is important to know how to travel comfortably, safely and efficiently between Jeddah Airport to Makkah Transfers.
This is the ultimate guide to all of the transportation choices, including the vennas of using a private taxi or a ride-hailing app, to the Haramain High-Speed Train and bus facilities. You will know the advantages, ways of commuting and how to travel, the best tips to travel the 90 kilometer distance as smoothly as possible.
Understanding the Route: Jeddah to Makkah
Makkah is over a span of 90 kilometers (56 miles) away from Jeddah Airport. The trip usually requires approximately 1 to 1.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak pilgrimage periods—such as Ramadan or Hajj—it may take longer.
The two major highways that are usually used by travelers include:
- Route 40 ( Makkah- Jeddah Expressway ) -The quickest and the directest way.
- Old Makkah Road ( Route 5M )- Buses and local taxis are sometimes on this route.
There is moderate traffic most of the year with a tendency to spike at the approach of the weekends and prayer times. After a long international flight, the choice of the transfer service may greatly decrease the level of stress and time spent on waiting.
Types of Jeddah Airport to Makkah Transfers
The needs of each traveler are not similar. The needs of families, individual pilgrims, groups, or even business visitors are different and demand more or less comfort, privacy, and convenience. The following are the primary routes that one can consider when traveling at Jeddah Airport to Makkah Transfers.
1. Private Taxi or Chauffeured Car
The most convenient and comfortable means of getting to Makkah is by use of the private taxis. These services include door to door transfers, which implies that the driver will meet you at the airport arrivals section and take you straight to the hotel in Makkah.
Key Benefits of Private Taxi Services:
- Direct pickup from the terminal — no need to find transport outside.
- Professional and English-speaking drivers available with many operators.
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles (sedans, SUVs, vans).
- Flexible timing — available 24/7, ideal for late-night arrivals.
- Assistance with luggage and navigation.
Private transfers are highly recommended for families, elderly pilgrims, and those traveling with multiple bags or children.
Tips for Booking:
- Choose a reputable provider that offers fixed pricing to avoid negotiation.
- Confirm that the company serves your arrival terminal (North, South, or Hajj Terminal).
- Always share your flight number so the driver can track delays.
- Some services like 5Star Taxi Services allow “Pay After Ride” — ideal for travelers who prefer not to pay upfront.
2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Careem, Bolt)
App-based ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem operate widely in Jeddah airport to Makkah Transfers. Many travelers prefer these apps because they are easy to use and provide digital receipts, GPS tracking, and fare transparency.
Advantages of Ride-Hailing Apps:
- Book directly through the mobile app after landing.
- Select your preferred vehicle type (economy, business, SUV).
- Avoids price negotiation — fares are pre-calculated.
- Secure and trackable ride experience.
Limitations:
- Pickup points vary depending on the terminal; sometimes, you may need to walk to a designated area.
- Surge pricing can occur during busy times or late hours.
- Language barriers with some drivers may exist, though most are experienced with pilgrims.
When to Use:
- Ideal for solo travelers or couples with light luggage.
- Useful for short-notice travel if you didn’t pre-book a taxi.
3. Haramain High-Speed Train (HHR)
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is one of Saudi Arabia’s most modern transportation options, connecting Jeddah Airport to Makkah and Madinah. This train system is fast, reliable, and comfortable, making it a popular alternative to road travel.
Key Information:
- Train departs from Jeddah Airport Station (KAIA Station) directly.
- Travel time from Jeddah Airport to Makkah: approximately 1 hour.
- Makkah Station is located in the Rusaifa District, about 10–15 minutes from the Haram area by local taxi.
- Multiple departures daily, though schedules may vary by season.
Advantages of Using the Train:
- Avoids highway traffic.
- Clean, modern stations with amenities such as Wi-Fi, waiting areas, and prayer rooms.
- Comfortable seating and luggage space.
- Environmentally friendly travel option.
What to Remember:
- You must pre-book tickets online or through the HHR mobile app.
- If your arrival time does not match the train schedule, you might need to wait for the next departure.
- After arriving in Makkah, you’ll still need a short taxi ride to reach your hotel.
4. Public Bus and Shuttle Services
Bus services are another transportation choice, especially for budget travelers and large groups. Several operators offer shared shuttle transfers from Jeddah Airport to Makkah.
Bus Services Include:
- Public intercity buses operated by SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company).
- Private shuttle buses arranged by travel agencies or group Umrah packages.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective, especially for groups or individuals traveling on a budget.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Considerations:
- Buses may not stop directly at your hotel; drop-offs are usually at Makkah bus stations.
- Travel time can extend due to multiple passenger pickups or stops.
- Limited luggage space.
- Not ideal for those arriving very late or early when bus frequency is low.
Transfer Options from Jeddah Airport to Makkah
| Transfer Type | Travel Time | Comfort Level | Availability | Suitable For | Drop-off Location |
| Private Taxi / Chauffeured Car | 1 – 1.5 hours | Very High | 24/7 | Families, groups, elderly | Direct to hotel |
| Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Careem) | 1 – 1.5 hours | High | 24/7 | Solo, business travelers | Direct to hotel |
| Haramain Train | 1 hour (plus local taxi) | Very High | Scheduled hours | All travelers | Makkah Train Station |
| Public Bus / Shuttle | 1.5 – 2.5 hours | Medium | Daytime | Budget travelers, groups | Makkah Bus Station |
Choosing the Right Transfer for Your Needs
Not all forms of transport are appropriate to all people. The option will rely on cost, time of arrival, baggage, and the purpose of travel. The following guide will assist in identifying the best service to use.
1. Families and Groups
Families tend to carry higher luggage, children and elders that require comfortable traveling. By using a personal Makkah to Jeddah Taxi or van, there is no need to wait as everybody will be together and will be transferred to the hotel.
2. Individual pilgrims or Railroad Tramps.
Individuals moving alone or with fewer luggage could have an easy time using ride-hailing applications or bus services. Another good alternative would be the train in case your flight is at the same time as the train.
3. Business or VIP Travelers
Chauffeured premium cars should be used by executives or VIP guests that attach importance to privacy and punctuality. These consist of luxury sedans or SUVs having professional drivers.
4. First-Time Umrah Pilgrims
The struggle that may be encountered by new arrivals in Saudi Arabia is the navigation of the local transport systems. The surest and most stress-free solution is pre-booking a good airport transfer.
Helpful Tips for Travelers
- Book in advance if possible, especially during Ramadan or Hajj season.
- Confirm your terminal when booking. The North, South, and Hajj terminals are separate.
- Have Saudi Riyals in cash for tolls or small expenses.
- Keep your phone active to stay in touch with your driver.
- Travel modestly dressed in respect of local customs.
- If you are continuing your journey to Madinah, many companies also offer combined transfer packages.
Quick Comparison of Travel Aspects
| Feature | Private Taxi | Ride-Hailing App | Train | Bus |
| Direct to Hotel | Yes | Yes | No (needs taxi) | No (bus station drop) |
| Luggage Handling | Excellent | Good | Limited space | Limited |
| Flexibility | Very High | High | Medium | Low |
| Ease for Non-Arabic Speakers | Very Easy | Easy | Easy | Moderate |
| Suitable for Families | Yes | Sometimes | Yes | Not ideal |
| Night Travel Availability | 24/7 | 24/7 | Limited | Limited |
Arrival in Makkah – What to Expect
One of the most significant trips undertaken by millions of pilgrims and visitors annually is the journey between Jeddah Airport to Makkah Transfers. Whether visiting Makkah to pay tribute to the holy city, Umrah, Hajj, or just to visit the sacred city, it is imperative to know how to travel comfortably, safely, and efficiently between Jeddah Airport (King Abdulaziz International Airport) and Makkah.
This guide is a detailed description of all the transport options, such as hailing a taxi or using an app, the Haramain High-Speed Train, or bus services. You will get to know the advantages, the traveling time, and the traveling secrets of the 90 kilometer journey to make it as comfortable as possible.
Why Choose Professional Taxi or Transfer Companies
By choosing professional umrah taxi service, one can be sure of a safe and comfortable ride. The major benefits of companies, such as the 5Star Taxi Services, over random taxi hires include:
- Pick up guaranteed irrespective of flight delays.
- Fixed, transparent fares.
- Qualified, registered and English speaking drivers.
- Long-ride vehicles which are clean and air-conditioned.
- 24/7 customer care through WhatsApp or phone.
- Flexibility to pay (at entry).
This service can eliminate any form of uncertainty and travelers will concentrate on their religious mission of visiting the place and not on logistics.
Conclusion
The trip taken between Jeddah airport to Makkah Transfers is the starting point of a spiritually important journey to all the pilgrims. Using the appropriate mode of transportation, a private taxi, train, ride-hailing service, or bus, the traveler can have a harmonious and effective beginning of the visit.
Having plans ahead of time, checking reservations, and knowing the possible routes are truly a big difference in comfort and relaxing lifestyle. Moreover, trusted transport companies make the process easier, especially for international visitors who are not familiar with the transport network in Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
The distance between Jeddah Airport and Makkah can be covered by taxi or ride-hailing application (Uber or Careem), Haramain High-Speed Train, or the bus. The most preferable option is based on your comfort and travelling time.
Travel time is typically 1-1.5hrs by road and 1hr by train, depending on the time of the day and where your ultimate destination will be in Makkah.
Yes. The Haramain High-Speed Train makes the direct linkage of Makkah and Jeddah Airport. It is clean, fast and modern mode of traveling that suits pilgrims and tourist alike.
Yes, it will not only guarantee a hassle-free ride but also ensure a set cost and a confirmed pickup — especially convenient for families, groups, or those arriving late.
Yes. All the airport terminals are served 24/7 365 days by private taxis and ride-hailing services which results in the fact that travelers can safely and conveniently reach Makkah at any time of the day.
