Traveling Between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah is an important part of planning your Umrah journey from Italy. Planning Umrah involves more than booking your flights and choosing hotels. You also need to think about how you will travel between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, especially if you are travelling with children, elderly parents, or several pieces of luggage.
Saudi Arabia offers different transport options to suit different budgets and travel needs. You can take the Haramain High-Speed Train, arrange a private taxi, or travel by bus. Each option has its own advantages, so the right choice depends on your itinerary, luggage, budget, and how much comfort you need.
In this guide, Vipiteno Travels explains how to travel between these three important cities in 2026, with practical advice for pilgrims travelling from Italy.
Jeddah to Makkah: Starting Your Umrah Journey
For most international pilgrims arriving by air, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah is the main gateway to Makkah. After a long flight from Italy, you may want to reach your hotel as comfortably and quickly as possible.
You generally have two practical options: the Haramain High-Speed Train or a private taxi.
Option 1: Haramain High-Speed Train
The Haramain train connects Jeddah’s airport station with Makkah and is worth considering if you want to avoid road traffic. It offers a comfortable journey, particularly for travellers with manageable luggage who prefer a scheduled service.
Before choosing the train, check your arrival time, available departures, and the time needed to complete immigration, collect your luggage, and reach the station. Leave a comfortable buffer between your flight’s scheduled arrival and your train departure.
Important: The train’s luggage restrictions can be a problem for pilgrims travelling with large suitcases. Check the current baggage allowance before purchasing tickets.
Option 2: Private Taxi
A private taxi from Jeddah Airport to Makkah typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic, your hotel location, and other road conditions.
This can be particularly convenient if you are travelling with family, carrying several bags, or accompanying elderly parents. Your driver can take you directly to your hotel, avoiding the need to manage luggage through a station and arrange additional transport at the other end.
Before confirming your transfer, ask whether the quoted price includes airport pickup, waiting time, tolls if applicable, and all your passengers’ luggage. Also confirm the vehicle size, especially if you need space for a wheelchair or mobility aid.
Our practical advice: If you arrive tired after an international flight, a pre-arranged private transfer can make the first part of your Umrah journey much easier.
Haramain High-Speed Train: Travelling Between Makkah and Madinah
The Haramain High-Speed Train is a popular option for pilgrims travelling between the two holy cities. It provides a scheduled rail connection and avoids the uncertainties of a long road journey.
The journey between Makkah and Madinah takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a convenient option for pilgrims who want to spend less time travelling and more time at their destinations.
How does the train journey work?
The service connects Makkah and Madinah through the Haramain rail network, with stations serving Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City along the route.
Your journey will be easier if you prepare in advance:
- Book your ticket for the correct travel date and departure time.
- Confirm the station location and how you will reach it from your hotel.
- Allow enough time for the journey from your hotel to the station.
- Keep your ticket, identification, and essential belongings accessible.
- Arrange transport from Madinah station to your hotel before departure.
Remember that a train ticket does not automatically include transfers between your hotel and the station. Depending on your accommodation, you may need a separate taxi or private vehicle at both ends.
Haramain train ticket prices in 2026
As a general reference, the official base fare for a one-way journey from Makkah to Madinah is approximately:
- Economy Class: SAR 162
- Business Class: SAR 455
These are approximate base fares before VAT and other applicable fees. Actual prices can vary according to the departure, travel date, availability, fare conditions, and booking channel.
If you are travelling as a family, compare the total cost for everyone rather than looking at the price of one ticket alone. You should also include the cost of transfers to and from both stations when comparing the train with a private taxi.
For the latest timetable, baggage conditions, and booking details, consult the official Haramain High-Speed Railway website before making your plans.
Luggage rules: Read this before booking
Do not book the Haramain train until you have checked your luggage against the applicable restrictions.
For the 2026 luggage allowance specified in this guide, each passenger may carry only:
- One large bag: Maximum weight of 25 kg and maximum dimensions of 65 × 55 × 35 cm.
- One small personal item: Such as a backpack or purse.
The allowance is important for Umrah pilgrims because many travellers from Italy bring clothing for several days, gifts for relatives, prayer essentials, and other personal belongings. A suitcase that is too large or an additional full-size bag can create a serious problem on travel day.
Excess baggage is not allowed on the train and must be shipped via cargo. Do not assume that you can simply pay an extra fee at the station to take additional suitcases with you.
Before travelling, take these steps:
- Measure each suitcase, including its wheels and handles where applicable.
- Weigh your main bag before leaving your hotel.
- Keep your small personal item within the permitted allowance.
- If you have extra luggage, arrange cargo shipment in advance or select a transport option that accommodates your bags.
- Reconfirm the current official baggage rules before departure, as operational requirements can change.
Families travelling with several large suitcases should pay particular attention to this point. Even if the train journey itself is short, dealing with excess luggage can add expense, delays, and unnecessary worry to your trip.
Who should choose the Haramain train?
The train is worth considering if you:
- Want a relatively quick journey between Makkah and Madinah.
- Are travelling alone, as a couple, or with a small family.
- Can comply with the baggage restrictions.
- Prefer a scheduled departure rather than a long road transfer.
- Are comfortable arranging separate transport between stations and hotels.
For pilgrims with limited mobility, remember to consider the entire journey, not just the time spent on the train. Walking through stations, boarding, handling bags, and transferring to a hotel can all affect how comfortable the experience will be.
Private Taxi from Makkah to Madinah: Comfort and Convenience
A private taxi or pre-booked VIP transfer is an excellent option for families, pilgrims travelling with elderly parents, and anyone carrying more luggage than the train permits.
The road journey generally takes around 4 to 5 hours, although traffic, rest stops, weather, and pickup or drop-off locations may affect the total time.
The biggest advantage is the door-to-door service. Your driver can collect you from your Makkah hotel and take you directly to your Madinah hotel, without requiring you to transfer between stations or manage suitcases on and off multiple vehicles.
Why families often prefer private transfers
A private transfer can be particularly helpful when:
- You are travelling with elderly parents who need frequent breaks.
- Your family has several suitcases.
- You are travelling with young children.
- You need space for mobility aids or other special equipment.
- You want to leave at a convenient time rather than follow a fixed train or bus schedule.
You can also discuss rest stops with your driver, which may make the road journey more comfortable for older travellers.
What should you confirm before booking?
Before paying for a private transfer, ask the transport provider about:
- The total price for your group.
- The vehicle type and passenger capacity.
- The number and size of suitcases the vehicle can accommodate.
- Pickup and drop-off arrangements at your hotels.
- Whether tolls, waiting time, and other charges are included.
- Whether a suitable vehicle is available for passengers with mobility needs.
A private taxi may cost more than individual train or bus tickets, but it can offer better value for a family when you consider luggage, station transfers, and convenience together.
SAPTCO Bus: A Budget-Friendly Option
For pilgrims travelling alone or trying to keep expenses low, an intercity bus can be a reasonable alternative. SAPTCO is a recognised Saudi transport provider, and bus travel can cost less than a train ticket or private vehicle.
As a general budget estimate, a bus journey between Makkah and Madinah may cost around SAR 60–80, with a journey time of approximately 5 to 6 hours. Treat both figures as indicative rather than guaranteed 2026 fares or schedules, and confirm the actual service before booking.
Is the bus right for you?
A bus may suit you if you:
- Are travelling alone or with one companion.
- Have a limited transport budget.
- Can manage the longer journey.
- Are comfortable travelling according to a fixed schedule.
- Have luggage that meets the bus operator’s baggage policy.
Do not assume that bus luggage rules are the same as the Haramain train’s rules. Check the operator’s current baggage allowance, including any weight limits, extra-bag charges, and restrictions on oversized items.
Also remember that the bus station may not be close to your hotel. Include the cost and time of getting to the departure station and travelling from the arrival station to your accommodation.
For a solo traveller with manageable luggage, the bus can help keep transport costs down. For a family with young children, elderly relatives, or several suitcases, the longer journey and station transfers may make another option more suitable.
Makkah to Madinah: Train vs. Taxi vs. Bus
Use this comparison to decide which transport option best fits your itinerary and travel needs.
Factor
Haramain Train
Private Taxi / VIP Transfer
SAPTCO Bus
Time
About 2 hours 20 minutes
About 4–5 hours
About 5–6 hours
Cost
Economy base fare approx. SAR 162 per person; Business approx. SAR 455, before VAT/fees
Varies by vehicle, provider, date, and group size
Indicative estimate SAR 60–80 per person
Luggage allowance
One bag up to 25 kg and 65 × 55 × 35 cm, plus one small personal item under the specified rule; excess baggage must go by cargo
Confirm vehicle capacity and baggage arrangements before booking
Confirm the bus operator’s current baggage policy
Best for
Travellers who want a faster journey and can meet train baggage limits
Families, elderly travellers, mobility needs, and people with multiple suitcases
Solo travellers and budget-conscious pilgrims
Prices and journey times are planning estimates, not guaranteed quotes. Confirm current fares, baggage requirements, availability, and schedules with the relevant transport provider before travelling.
Traveling Between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah: Planning Your Complete Route
If you are travelling from Italy for Umrah, planning the order of your cities can save time and reduce unnecessary transfers.
Many pilgrims arrive at Jeddah Airport, travel to Makkah for Umrah, and then continue to Madinah to visit Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. Others follow a different itinerary depending on flight availability, hotel bookings, and their travel dates.
Here are a few practical points to consider when organising your route.
Before leaving Italy
- Check your arrival airport: Confirm whether your international flight arrives at Jeddah and how you will reach your first hotel.
- Coordinate your hotel bookings: Make sure your check-in and check-out dates match your transport arrangements.
- Decide on your luggage strategy: If you plan to take the Haramain train, pack within the permitted allowance.
- Arrange station transfers: Check how you will travel between your accommodation and the railway stations.
- Keep essential documents accessible: Carry your passport, travel documents, booking confirmations, and any required visa information securely.
If you are travelling with elderly parents
Give yourself enough time between each stage of the journey. A short train ride may still involve walking through a station, managing bags, and getting into another vehicle.
If your parents have difficulty walking or standing for long periods, ask about station assistance and accessible arrangements before travelling. A private door-to-door transfer may be more comfortable, particularly when your family has several suitcases.
If you are travelling with children
Try to avoid a schedule that leaves little time for meals, bathroom breaks, or rest. Keep water, snacks where permitted, medication, and other essentials easily accessible.
For a family, compare the total cost of all train tickets and hotel transfers with the price of one suitable private vehicle. Depending on the size of your group, the difference may be smaller than you expect.
Allow flexibility in your itinerary
Transport schedules, road conditions, and hotel arrangements can affect your plans. Avoid scheduling important activities immediately after a long transfer, particularly if you are travelling with older family members.
Check departure times and booking conditions close to your travel date. If your itinerary includes connecting flights, allow sufficient time for the journey and any unexpected delays.
When Traveling Between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah, consider your hotel locations, luggage allowance, and available transport options before booking.
Which Transport Option Should You Choose for Umrah in 2026?
There is no single option that suits every pilgrim. Your best choice depends on the balance you want between cost, journey time, luggage, and comfort.
- Choose the Haramain train if you value a shorter journey and can comply with the luggage restrictions.
- Choose a private taxi or VIP transfer if you are travelling with family, elderly parents, mobility needs, or several suitcases.
- Consider the SAPTCO bus if you are travelling on a tight budget and are comfortable with a longer journey.
For pilgrims travelling from Italy, it is worth deciding on transport before finalising your hotels. This allows you to coordinate arrival times, station transfers, baggage arrangements, and check-ins without unnecessary last-minute stress.
Remember that the cheapest ticket is not always the lowest overall cost once you include transfers and luggage arrangements. Equally, paying for a private vehicle may be worthwhile if it makes the journey significantly easier for your family.
Make Your Umrah Journey Easier with Vipiteno Travels
Travelling between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah should not become a source of worry during your spiritual journey. When you are visiting Saudi Arabia from Italy, managing unfamiliar stations, luggage restrictions, hotel transfers, and different transport bookings can feel overwhelming, especially when you are responsible for your family.
At Vipiteno Travels, we understand that every pilgrim has different needs. Our customised Umrah packages from Italy can include seamless transportation arrangements, whether you prefer Haramain train tickets or private VIP transfers, depending on your itinerary and requirements.
We can help you plan the practical details so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time preparing for your journey of worship.
Planning your Umrah trip from Italy in 2026?
Contact Vipiteno Travels to discuss your travel dates, hotel preferences, transport options, and family requirements.
- WhatsApp: +39 333 903 1638
- Website: vipitenotravels.com
Let us help you plan a comfortable, well-organised journey from Italy to the holy cities of Saudi Arabia, with arrangements suited to you and your family.
May Allah accept your Umrah, make your travels easy, and grant you and your loved ones a safe and blessed journey. Ameen.
Planning ahead when Traveling Between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah can make your Umrah journey from Italy more comfortable and stress-free.