Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare – A Complete Guide for Travelers

Wiki Article

Introduction

Every year, millions of pilgrims and travelers journey between Makkah and Madinah, the two holiest cities in Islam. Whether you are performing Hajj, Umrah, or simply visiting Saudi Arabia, one of the most common questions is: “How much does a taxi cost from Makkah to Madinah?” Understanding the Makkah to Madinah taxi fare helps travelers plan their trip smoothly, avoid overpaying, and choose the best transport option.

In this article, we will explore taxi fares, travel duration, types of taxis available, and alternative modes of transportation to make your journey easier.

Distance and Travel Duration

The road distance between Makkah and Madinah is approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles). By car or taxi, the trip usually takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic, route, and stops along the way. Since both cities are connected by modern highways, the journey is comfortable, but costs can vary significantly based on your choice of vehicle and service.

Average Taxi Fare from Makkah to Madinah

The taxi fare between Makkah and Madinah does not have a fixed rate, as it depends on the type of taxi, service provider, season, and negotiation. However, travelers can expect the following general price ranges:

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   Standard Taxi (Sedan or Regular Car)

   
   
   
   
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     Average fare: SAR 500 – SAR 700 (USD 130 – 190)

     
     
   
   
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     Best for 1–3 passengers with light luggage.

     
     
   
   
   
   


2. 
   

   Large Taxi or SUV

   
   
   
   
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     Average fare: SAR 700 – SAR 1000 (USD 190 – 265)

     
     
   
   
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     Comfortable for families or groups with more luggage.

     
     
   
   
   
   


3. 
   

   Private Taxi with Driver (Luxury Option)

   
   
   
   
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     Average fare: SAR 1000 – SAR 1500+ (USD 265 – 400+)

     
     
   
   
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     Offers privacy, professional drivers, and premium cars such as Lexus or GMC.

     
     
   
   
   
   

These prices are one-way fares, and some drivers may offer discounts for round-trip bookings.

Factors Affecting Taxi Fare

Several factors can influence the cost of your taxi ride between Makkah and Madinah:

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   Season & Demand – During Hajj and Ramadan, taxi fares increase due to high demand.

   
   


2. 
   

   Type of Car – Standard cars are cheaper, while luxury vehicles cost more.

   
   


3. 
   

   Number of Passengers – More people may require a larger car, which raises the fare.

   
   


4. 
   

   Booking Method – Street taxis may be cheaper but less reliable, while online bookings (Uber, Careem, or private companies) usually have fixed rates.

   
   


5. 
   

   Driver Negotiation – In some cases, travelers can negotiate the fare with drivers directly.

   
   

Alternatives to Taxi

While taxis are convenient, they are not the only way to travel from Makkah to Madinah. Here are some alternatives:

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   High-Speed Train (Haramain Train)

   
   
   
   
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     Travel time: Around 2.5 hours

     
     
   
   
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     Ticket price: SAR 150 – SAR 300 (USD 40 – 80) per person

     
     
   
   
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     Comfortable, fast, and ideal for solo travelers or couples.

     
     
   
   
   
   


2. 
   

   Private Car Rentals

   
   
   
   
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     Renting a car gives you full control of the journey.

     
     
   
   
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     Cost: Around SAR 150 – SAR 250 per day (USD 40 – 65), excluding fuel.

     
     
   
   
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     Best for experienced drivers with an international copyright.

     
     
   
   
   
   


3. 
   

   Buses

   
   
   
   
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     Bus companies like SAPTCO operate between Makkah and Madinah.

     
     
   
   
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     Fare: SAR 100 – SAR 150 (USD 27 – 40).

     
     
   
   
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     Travel time: Around 5–6 hours, depending on stops.

     
     
   
   
   
   

While trains and buses are cheaper, taxis remain the most flexible option for families, elderly travelers, and those with a lot of luggage.

Tips for Booking a Taxi from Makkah to Madinah

To get the best deal and ensure a safe journey, keep these tips in mind:

1. 
   

   Book in Advance – Especially during Ramadan or Hajj seasons.

   
   


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   Compare Options – Check ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) alongside local taxi services.

   
   


3. 
   

   Agree on Fare Before Departure – Always confirm the total price to avoid surprises.

   
   


4. 
   

   Check Vehicle Condition – Ensure the car is clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned.

   
   


5. 
   

   Travel in Groups – Sharing the taxi cost among multiple passengers can make it much cheaper.

   
   

Why Choose a Taxi Over Other Options?

Although alternatives like trains and buses are popular, taxis offer unique advantages:

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  Door-to-Door Service – No need to travel to train stations or bus terminals.

  
  


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  Flexible Timing – Leave whenever you are ready, unlike fixed schedules.

  
  


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  Privacy & Comfort – Especially important for families, women, and elderly travelers.

  
  


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  Direct Routes – Taxis usually drive straight to your destination without multiple stops.

  
  

Conclusion

Traveling from Makkah to Madinah by taxi is one of the most convenient ways to make the journey. The average taxi fare ranges from SAR 500 to SAR 1500, depending on the vehicle type, season, and booking method. While alternatives like trains and buses offer cheaper options, taxis remain the preferred choice for those who value comfort, flexibility, and door-to-door service.

When planning your trip, always compare prices, book in advance, and confirm fares with drivers to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you are traveling for Umrah, Hajj, or a personal visit, knowing the Makkah to Madinah taxi fare will help you budget wisely and enjoy a stress-free experience between these two sacred cities.