medina hotel to makkah hotel

When you’re in Saudi Arabia for your Umrah pilgrimage, one of the most important parts of your journey is traveling from Medina to Makkah. This trip connects two of the holiest cities in Islam, and making this journey comfortable, smooth, and spiritually uplifting is every pilgrim’s desire. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this article will guide you step-by-step on how to travel from your Medina hotel to Makkah hotel with ease.


Why the Journey Matters

This isn’t just a trip—it’s part of your spiritual journey. Many pilgrims visit the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Medina before heading to Makkah for Umrah. Ensuring your travel is seamless helps keep your focus on prayer and reflection, not logistics.


Distance Between Medina and Makkah

  • Approximate Distance: 450 km (280 miles)

  • Travel Time by Road: 4 to 6 hours depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions

  • Travel Time by Train: Around 2.5 hours using the Haramain High-Speed Railway


Transportation Options

1. Private Umrah Cab

A private cab is the most convenient and flexible way to travel from Medina to Makkah.

Pros:

  • Door-to-door service (hotel pickup and drop-off)

  • Comfortable seating with air-conditioning

  • No waiting time — leave on your schedule

Ideal For:

  • Families with children

  • Elderly pilgrims

  • Those with a lot of luggage

Average Cost: SAR 400 to SAR 600 (depending on the type of vehicle)

Extra Tip: Look for services that offer Wi-Fi, water bottles, and multilingual drivers.


2. Shared Shuttle Vans

Shared vans or minibuses are a more budget-friendly option. These are operated by Umrah service providers and usually pick up multiple passengers from different hotels.

Pros:

  • Lower cost

  • Available daily from popular hotel clusters

Cons:

  • Longer journey due to multiple pickups

  • Less privacy

Cost: SAR 100–200 per person

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers or solo pilgrims


3. VIP Buses

VIP buses are luxurious, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and onboard amenities. This is a great middle-ground option that blends affordability and comfort.

Pros:

  • Comfortable and spacious

  • Often includes stops for prayer and refreshments

Cons:

  • Fixed schedules

  • May take slightly longer due to pre-set routes

Cost: SAR 150–300 per person

Popular Operators: SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Co.), Dar Al-Mashaer


4. Haramain High-Speed Railway

The Haramain train is the fastest and most modern way to travel between Medina and Makkah.

Pros:

  • Only 2.5 hours of travel time

  • Punctual, safe, and reliable

  • Comfortable with clean restrooms, Wi-Fi, and food options

Cons:

  • Doesn’t provide hotel-to-hotel service—you’ll need a taxi to and from the stations

  • Limited luggage capacity

Cost: SAR 150–250 (economy), SAR 300+ (business class)

Pro Tip: Book early via the official Haramain Railway website or app during peak seasons like Ramadan or Hajj.


Choosing the Right Option

Criteria Best Option
Comfort & Privacy Private Cab
Budget-Friendly Shared Shuttle
Group Travel VIP Bus
Fastest Travel Haramain Train
Hotel-to-Hotel Private Cab

Booking Your Ride

Online Booking

Most services now offer online booking via websites or apps. Booking in advance ensures availability and helps avoid last-minute stress.

Hotel Concierge

Ask your hotel staff—they often partner with reliable transport companies and can arrange everything for you.

Travel Agents

If you booked Umrah through a travel agency, ask if intercity transfers are included in your package.


Travel Preparation Tips

1. Ihram Preparation

If you plan to begin your Umrah after reaching Makkah, then you must enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat (typically at Dhul-Hulayfah or Bir Ali near Medina). Make sure your driver knows this and stops at the Miqat station.

2. Food and Water

Even though many services offer refreshments, it’s smart to carry your own snacks and bottled water, especially for children or elderly travelers.

3. Travel Light

Avoid carrying too much hand luggage. Keep essentials close—ID, money, phone, Ihram clothing, and booking confirmation.

4. Entertainment

A few hours on the road can get boring. Download some Qur’an recitations or listen to Islamic lectures during your journey.


What to Expect Upon Arrival in Makkah

Once you arrive in Makkah:

  • Head straight to your hotel for check-in.

  • Freshen up and perform ghusl (ritual purification).

  • Proceed to Masjid al-Haram to begin your Umrah rituals.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Booking Last Minute: You risk paying more or not finding transport at all.

  • Forgetting Miqat Rules: Know your Miqat point and be prepared to stop and make niyyah (intention).

  • Assuming All Vehicles Are Licensed: Always choose certified and reputed operators.

  • Not Confirming Pickup Time: Always double-check your scheduled pickup and share your location with the driver.


Personal Stories

“Our cab from Medina to Makkah was smooth and easy. The driver was kind enough to stop at a clean Miqat station for us.” – Sarah, UK

“We booked the Haramain train—it was fast, clean, and safe. We just needed a short Uber ride to our Makkah hotel afterward.” – Ahmed, Malaysia


Final Thoughts

Traveling from your Medina hotel to your Makkah hotel is more than just a trip—it’s a continuation of your spiritual journey. Choosing the right mode of transportation can make a huge difference in how smoothly your Umrah experience goes. Whether you go for the comfort of a private cab, the speed of a high-speed train, or the affordability of shared transport, the key is to plan ahead, stay informed, and travel with intention.


FAQs

1. Can I wear my Ihram in the hotel before leaving Medina?
Yes, many pilgrims wear their Ihram at the hotel, especially if they are stopping at the Miqat en route to Makkah.

2. Do Umrah cab drivers know where the Miqat is?
Reputed Umrah cab drivers are trained and familiar with Miqat locations and will stop for you to make your intention.

3. Are there female-friendly transport options?
Yes, many services offer female-friendly or family-only rides to ensure safety and comfort.

4. Can I book a return trip from Makkah to Medina too?
Absolutely. Most providers offer round-trip packages which can be more affordable and convenient.

5. What if I arrive late at night? Will transport still be available?
Yes, most private and VIP services operate 24/7. However, always confirm availability during late hours when booking.

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