Traveling between Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah (Medina) is one of the most important journeys for pilgrims and visitors in Saudi Arabia. You need to have reliable transportation whether you are going to Umrah or Hajj or you are simply visiting the holy cities. Among the various other modes of transport such as train, bus, and personal cars, taxis remain one of the most popular ways of transport since they are more convenient, private, and flexible.
Here, we are going to discuss all you need to know about the Makkah to Madinah taxi fare, such as distance, time of travel, price structure, elements to influence the fares, reservation, alternatives, and helpful travel tips.
Distance Between Makkah and Madinah
Before discussing fares, let’s first understand the distance and travel route.
- Total Distance: Approximately 450 km
- Average Travel Time by Taxi: 4 to 5 hours (depending on traffic and stops)
- Main Highway Route: Makkah → Al-Qassim Highway → Madinah
- Alternative Routes: Slightly longer but less traffic at times
For pilgrims, this road is not just a highway but a spiritual connection between the two holiest cities of Islam.
Updated Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare (2025)
Taxi rates differ based on the kind of a vehicle, quantity of people, mode of booking, and time of the year. Listed below is a rough fare schedule in 2025.
Taxi Fare Comparison Table
| Vehicle Type | Seats | Best For | One-Way Fare (SAR) | Notes |
| Standard Sedan | 3–4 | Solo travelers, small families | 450 – 600 SAR | Affordable, basic comfort |
| 7-Seater Van | 5–7 | Families & medium groups | 550 – 800 SAR | Extra luggage space |
| SUV / Premium | 4–6 | Luxury travel, comfort seekers | 800 – 1200+ SAR | High comfort & privacy |
| Shared Taxi | Per Seat | Budget travelers | 150 – 250 SAR/person | Not always available |
Note: Prices are approximate and may change during Hajj season, Ramadan, or peak tourism periods.
Factors Affecting Taxi Fares
There are a number of factors that affect the cost of a makkah to madinah taxi fare. Knowing them will save you in the planning and overpaying..
1. Type of Vehicle
- Sedans are the cheapest.
- Vans and SUVs cost more but are better for groups.
- Luxury cars are the most expensive.
2. Seasonal Demand
- Hajj & Ramadan: Prices often rise due to high demand.
- Off-Season: Fares may be lower and easier to negotiate.
3. Pickup and Drop Location
- Taxis from hotels near Masjid al-Haram in Makkah may charge slightly more than those from city outskirts.
- Drop-off directly at Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah can cost extra compared to dropping at a bus terminal.
4. Booking Method
- Pre-booked online taxis: Fixed price, usually reliable.
- On-spot taxis: May require fare negotiation, sometimes more expensive.
5. Extra Services
- English/Urdu-speaking driver.
- Stops for Ziyarat (visiting Quba Mosque, Uhud Mountain, etc.).
- Special requests like Wi-Fi or luxury interiors.
Booking Options for Makkah to Madinah Taxis
There are several ways to book a Umrah taxi service. Each option has pros and cons.
1. Online Taxi Booking Services
- Many companies allow booking through websites or WhatsApp.
- You can choose vehicle type, confirm fare, and get driver details in advance.
2. Hotel Arranged Taxis
- Hotels in Makkah and Madinah often have tie-ups with local drivers.
- Convenient but sometimes slightly more expensive.
3. Airport Pickups
- From King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) → Makkah → Madinah.
- Often included in Umrah packages.
4. Private Tour Operators
- Offer combined packages including ziyarat tours, city transfers, and customized travel plans.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Taking a Taxi
Like every mode of travel, taxis have both pros and cons.
Advantages
- Private and comfortable
- Direct door-to-door service
- Flexible timing
- Suitable for families and groups
- No luggage restrictions (compared to buses)
Disadvantages
- More expensive than train or bus
- Prices can vary without clear standards
- Need to confirm driver credentials for safety
Alternatives to Taxi: Other Travel Options
While taxis are convenient, travelers may consider other modes of transport.
Haramain High-Speed Train
- Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Fare: 150 – 250 SAR per person
- Pros: Fast, modern, reliable, scenic journey
- Cons: Fixed schedule, limited luggage space
SAPTCO Buses
- Duration: 5 – 6 hours
- Fare: 70 – 100 SAR per person
- Pros: Cheapest option, frequent services
- Cons: Less comfort, slower, shared with many passengers
Private Shuttle Services
- Operated by Umrah & Hajj tour agencies.
- Can be pre-booked for groups.
- Cost varies depending on the package.
Cost Comparison: Taxi vs Train vs Bus
| Transport Mode | Average Fare | Duration | Comfort Level | Best For |
| Taxi (Sedan) | 450 – 600 SAR | 4–5 hrs | High | Families & private travel |
| Taxi (Van/SUV) | 550 – 1200 SAR | 4–5 hrs | Very High | Groups & luxury travel |
| Train | 150 – 250 SAR/person | 2.5–3 hrs | Very High | Solo travelers & couples |
| Bus | 70 – 100 SAR/person | 5–6 hrs | Medium | Budget travelers |
Travel Tips for Saving Money and Staying Comfortable
- Book Early – During Hajj & Ramadan, taxis get booked quickly.
- Compare Options – Check prices online before deciding.
- Share the Ride – If traveling with other pilgrims, share a van or SUV.
- Negotiate Wisely – For on-spot taxis, agree on the fare before starting.
- Carry Essentials – Water, snacks, and a prayer mat for rest stops.
- Check Driver License – Always prefer registered and reliable drivers.
Safety and Comfort Considerations
- Always book with a licensed taxi company or through your hotel.
- Ensure the vehicle has air conditioning (especially in summer).
- Confirm that the driver is experienced in long-distance pilgrim routes.
- For families, request child seats if needed.
- If traveling at night, confirm 24/7 availability and emergency support.
Conclusion
To millions of pilgrims annually, the journey between Makkah and Madinah is not just merely a physical but a spiritual journey. The selection of the appropriate form of transport is essential to a comfortable, safe and hassle free experience.
- Taxis are the most suitable in case of privacy and flexibility (4501200 SAR depending on the vehicle).
- The Haramain High-Speed Train is a nice choice when you are in a hurry and need to spend little money.
- Buses are the most affordable and uncomfortable to those with a tight budget.
Whichever you go, do it in advance, shop around and be safe. In this manner, you will find it easy to travel in between the two blessed cities with ease and concentrate on your worship and spiritual aspirations.
FAQs
1. How much does a taxi from Makkah to Madinah cost in 2025?
The fare ranges between 450 SAR (sedan) and 1200 SAR (SUV/premium) depending on vehicle type and booking method.
3. Is the train cheaper than a taxi?
Yes, the Haramain train is cheaper (150–250 SAR per person) and faster. However, taxis provide door-to-door service.
4. Can I book a taxi online?
Yes, many companies allow pre-booking via websites or WhatsApp.
5. Do taxis allow stops for Ziyarat?
Yes, but this may increase the fare depending on how many stops you want.
6. Are taxis available at night?
Yes, most taxi services between Makkah and Madinah operate 24/7.
7. What is the cheapest way to travel between Makkah and Madinah?
The cheapest option is SAPTCO bus service, costing around 70–100 SAR per person.
