Quick Answer: The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah, Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport), King Abdullah Economic City, and Madinah. For UAE Umrah pilgrims, it is the most comfortable and efficient way to travel between Makkah and Madinah — the journey takes approximately 2 hours compared to 4–5 hours by road. Tickets are booked through the official Haramain website (sar.com.sa) or through the Nusuk platform. Economy class tickets cost approximately SAR 100–150 (AED 100–150) one way; business class costs approximately SAR 200–300 (AED 200–300). Book tickets in advance — the train fills quickly during Ramadan and peak pilgrim seasons.
Before the Haramain High-Speed Railway opened, the journey between Makkah and Madinah for Umrah pilgrims meant a 4–5 hour coach journey on a busy highway, often in large groups and with significant luggage. The train changed that entirely. Today, UAE pilgrims can travel between Islam’s two holiest cities in approximately 2 hours, in air-conditioned comfort, with guaranteed seating.
This guide covers everything UAE Umrah pilgrims need to know about using the Haramain train — the route, the stations, how to book tickets, what the journey is like, and how it fits into a typical Umrah itinerary from the UAE.
What Is the Haramain High-Speed Railway?
The Haramain High-Speed Railway (also known as the Haramain Express or Al-Haramain High Speed Rail) is a 450-kilometre high-speed rail line in Saudi Arabia connecting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah via Jeddah. It is operated by Saudi Railways (SAR) and runs at speeds of up to 300 km/h, making it one of the fastest train services in the Middle East.
The name “Haramain” means “the two sanctuaries” in Arabic — referring to Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, the two holiest mosques in Islam. The railway is specifically designed for the pilgrim journey and its entire operational purpose is to serve Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.
The Route: Stations and Journey Times
| Station | Location | Relevant For | Journey Time from Makkah |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah Station (Masjid al-Haram Station) | Within Makkah, close to the Haram | All Umrah pilgrims staying in Makkah | Starting point |
| King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAAIA) | Jeddah Airport — inside the arrivals terminal | Pilgrims flying in or out of Jeddah | ~30 minutes from Makkah |
| King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) | Between Jeddah and Madinah | Rarely used by pilgrims — transit stop | ~75 minutes from Makkah |
| Madinah Station | Within Madinah, near Masjid an-Nabawi | All pilgrims visiting Madinah | ~120 minutes from Makkah |
For UAE pilgrims, the two most used legs are:
- Makkah → Madinah (or reverse): approximately 2 hours — the main intercity pilgrim journey
- Jeddah Airport → Makkah: approximately 30 minutes — useful for pilgrims whose package includes arrival at KAAIA who want to reach Makkah without a coach transfer
- Jeddah Airport → Madinah: approximately 90 minutes — for Madinah-first itinerary pilgrims arriving at Jeddah
How the Haramain Train Fits Into a UAE Umrah Itinerary
Most UAE Umrah packages include transport between Makkah and Madinah — either by coach or by Haramain train. If your package includes the train, your agency handles the booking. If you are booking independently or want to upgrade from coach to train, you book separately.
Makkah-First Itinerary (Dubai/Sharjah → Jeddah → Makkah → Madinah → UAE)
- Fly into Jeddah (KAAIA)
- Transfer to Makkah by coach or by taking the Haramain train from the airport station (30 minutes)
- Perform Umrah in Makkah
- Take the Haramain train from Makkah Station to Madinah Station (~2 hours)
- Visit Masjid an-Nabawi and key sites in Madinah
- Return to Jeddah Airport by Haramain train from Madinah Station (~90 minutes)
- Fly back to UAE
Madinah-First Itinerary (Dubai/Sharjah → Madinah → Makkah → Jeddah → UAE)
- Fly directly into Madinah (MED Airport — not connected to the Haramain train)
- Visit Masjid an-Nabawi and sites in Madinah
- Enter Ihram at Masjid Abyar Ali (Dhul Hulaifa Miqat) on the way to Makkah
- Take private coach or taxi from Madinah to Makkah (~4 hours by road — the Haramain train does not connect directly from Madinah city to Makkah without going via the airport)
- Perform Umrah in Makkah
- Take the Haramain train from Makkah to Jeddah Airport (~30 minutes)
- Fly back to UAE
Important note for Madinah-first travellers: Madinah Airport (MED) is not connected to the Haramain train network. The Haramain train’s Madinah Station is located within the city — separate from the airport. If you fly into Madinah Airport, you take a taxi or transfer to your hotel; you then use the train station within the city for onward travel to Makkah or Jeddah. This is a common point of confusion for first-time users.
Train Classes: Economy vs Business
| Class | Approx. One-Way Fare (Makkah–Madinah) | Approx. in AED | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | SAR 100 – 150 | AED 100 – 150 | Assigned seating, air conditioning, luggage allowance, clean comfortable carriage |
| Business | SAR 200 – 300 | AED 200 – 300 | Wider seats, more legroom, priority boarding, light refreshments on some services |
For most UAE pilgrims, economy class is entirely adequate. The journey is approximately 2 hours, seats are assigned and comfortable, and the train is modern and air-conditioned. Business class is worth considering for elderly pilgrims who benefit from wider seats and priority boarding, and for families with young children who want more space.
SAR and AED are close in value (approximately 1:1) — making these fares easy to budget. Verify the current exchange rate before calculating exact costs.
How to Book Haramain Train Tickets
There are three ways to book Haramain train tickets as a UAE pilgrim:
Option 1: Through Your UAE Travel Agency (Easiest)
Most mid-range and premium UAE Umrah packages include the Makkah–Madinah train transfer as part of the package. Your agency books the tickets on your behalf and includes them with your travel documents. This is the simplest approach — confirm with your agency whether the train is included or whether a coach transfer is used instead.
Option 2: Through the Nusuk Platform
The Nusuk platform (nusuk.sa) includes Haramain train booking integration. If you have a Nusuk account — which every pilgrim needs for the Umrah permit — you can book train tickets through the same platform. This is convenient for pilgrims managing their own logistics. See our Nusuk app guide for UAE pilgrims for full details on using the platform.
Option 3: Direct Booking via SAR Website or App
The official Saudi Railways (SAR) website at sar.com.sa and the SAR mobile app allow direct ticket booking. The process requires:
- Create an account on sar.com.sa or download the SAR app
- Enter your travel details — origin station, destination, date, and number of passengers
- Select your preferred departure time — multiple daily departures operate on the Makkah–Madinah route
- Choose economy or business class
- Enter passenger details — passport number required for each traveller
- Pay by credit or debit card
- Receive your e-ticket — save it to your phone and take a screenshot as backup
The website is available in Arabic and English. Book as far in advance as possible — during Ramadan and school holiday periods, popular departure times sell out days or weeks ahead.
At the Station: What to Expect
Makkah Station
Makkah Station is located in the southern part of the city, approximately 3–5 kilometres from Masjid al-Haram. It is not within walking distance of most Haram-area hotels — you will need a taxi or Uber/Careem to reach the station from your hotel. Allow at least 30–45 minutes from your hotel to the station, factoring in the time to clear security and reach your platform.
Madinah Station
Madinah Station is located in the western part of Madinah. It is approximately 3–7 kilometres from Masjid an-Nabawi depending on where you are staying. Again, a taxi or ride-hailing app is needed from your hotel to the station. Uber and Careem both operate in Madinah.
Security and Check-In Process
- Arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before departure — there is a security screening process at all Haramain stations similar to an airport
- You will pass through a security scanner — remove metal items, phones, and laptops as at an airport
- Your e-ticket QR code is scanned at the gate
- Seats are assigned — find your carriage and seat number from your ticket
- Luggage: each passenger is allowed a certain weight of luggage in the overhead racks — check current SAR policy on luggage limits, as these have varied. Large suitcases may need to be checked in or stored separately.
On the Train
- Modern, clean, air-conditioned carriages
- Assigned seating — no need to rush for a seat
- Prayer direction indicators are displayed inside the carriage — the Qibla is marked
- Light refreshments available for purchase on some services; business class may include complimentary refreshments
- Journey time: approximately 2 hours for the full Makkah–Madinah route
- The train passes through striking desert landscape — the Hajar Mountains are visible on sections of the route
Haramain Train vs Coach: Which Is Better for UAE Pilgrims?
| Factor | Haramain Train | Coach Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Journey time (Makkah–Madinah) | ~2 hours | 4–5 hours |
| Comfort | Assigned seats, A/C, modern facilities | Variable — depends on operator and group size |
| Cost | SAR 100–150 economy one way | Often included in package at no extra cost |
| Flexibility | Specific departure times — must book in advance | More flexible — departs when the group is ready |
| Luggage | Weight limits apply — check current SAR policy | Typically handles larger luggage more easily |
| Group travel | Group must coordinate to same departure time | Entire group travels together on one vehicle |
| Best for | Independent travellers, couples, small groups who value speed and comfort | Large family groups, pilgrims with heavy luggage, packages where it is already included |
For most UAE pilgrims travelling independently or in couples, the Haramain train is the clear preference — it saves 2–3 hours of road travel and the comfort level is significantly higher than a shared coach. For families travelling with very elderly members or young children and large amounts of luggage, the coach transfer (usually included in the package) may actually be more practical despite the longer journey time.
Practical Tips for UAE Pilgrims Using the Haramain Train
- Book as early as possible. Haramain train tickets for popular departure times sell out quickly during Ramadan and school holiday periods. If your Umrah dates are confirmed, book your train tickets at the same time — do not leave it until you are in Makkah.
- Download the SAR app before travelling. Having your e-ticket on the app is more reliable than relying on a web browser when you are at the station managing luggage and navigating an unfamiliar environment.
- Allow 45 minutes station-to-platform. The security process at Haramain stations is thorough. Arriving 45 minutes before departure is the minimum — 60 minutes is comfortable.
- Confirm your luggage allowance before packing. SAR’s luggage policy for hand luggage and checked luggage has specific weight limits. If you are carrying Zamzam water home, factor this into your luggage planning.
- Use Uber or Careem to reach the station. Both operate reliably in Makkah and Madinah. Book your ride 15–20 minutes before you need to leave the hotel — not on the day of travel without a plan.
- Sit on the correct side for views. The train passes through dramatic desert and mountain landscape. The most scenic views on the Makkah–Madinah route are typically on the right side of the train travelling northbound (toward Madinah).
- Check for schedule changes. The Haramain train schedule and fare structure are updated periodically. Always verify current timetables and prices on sar.com.sa or the Nusuk platform before your trip — do not rely on prices quoted in this guide as definitive.
Planning Your Full Umrah Journey
The Haramain train is one practical element of the broader Umrah journey. For the complete planning framework — covering packages, visa, costs, rituals, and accommodation — see our complete Umrah guide for UAE residents. For Umrah package options that include train transfers from Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, see the relevant city guides linked from that page. For the step-by-step Umrah ritual walkthrough, see our guide on how to perform Umrah step by step.
FAQs
How long does the Haramain train take from Mecca (Makkah) to Madinah?
The Haramain High-Speed Railway journey from Makkah Station to Madinah Station takes approximately 2 hours. The train travels at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour across the 450-kilometre route. This compares very favourably to the road journey between the two cities, which takes 4 to 5 hours by coach. For UAE Umrah pilgrims, the time saving of 2 to 3 hours is a significant practical benefit, particularly on shorter 5 to 7 night packages where every day counts.
How much does the Haramain train cost?
Haramain train tickets for the Makkah to Madinah journey cost approximately SAR 100 to SAR 150 per person one way in economy class, and SAR 200 to SAR 300 in business class. Saudi Riyals and UAE Dirhams are close in value (approximately 1 to 1), making these costs straightforward to estimate in AED. Return fares are approximately double the one-way price. Prices vary by demand and season — peak pilgrim seasons such as Ramadan see higher fares and faster sell-out of popular departure times. Always verify current fares at sar.com.sa before budgeting.
How do I book Haramain train tickets from UAE?
UAE pilgrims can book Haramain train tickets through three routes: through their UAE travel agency as part of the Umrah package (the simplest option — many mid-range and premium packages include the train transfer); through the Nusuk platform (nusuk.sa) which has Haramain train booking integration; or directly through the Saudi Railways website at sar.com.sa or the SAR mobile app. For direct booking you will need each passenger’s passport number. Book as early as possible — popular departure times during Ramadan and school holidays sell out well in advance.
Is the Haramain train included in UAE Umrah packages?
It depends on the package. Many mid-range and premium UAE Umrah packages include the Makkah to Madinah transfer by Haramain train as part of the package price. Economy packages more commonly use shared coach transfers, which are slower but typically included at no extra cost. When requesting a quote from a UAE agency, ask specifically whether the Makkah to Madinah transfer is by train or coach, and whether train tickets are included in the price or booked and paid for separately. This is one of the points to confirm in writing before paying any deposit.
Is Madinah Airport connected to the Haramain train?
No. Madinah Airport (MED) is not connected to the Haramain train network. The Haramain train’s Madinah Station is located within the city, separate from the airport. Pilgrims who fly directly into Madinah Airport will need to take a taxi or arranged transfer from the airport to their hotel in the city. They can then travel to the Haramain Madinah Station by taxi or Uber from their hotel when they are ready to depart for Makkah or Jeddah by train. This is a common point of confusion for first-time Haramain train users.
Can I bring Zamzam water on the Haramain train?
Yes, you can bring Zamzam water on the Haramain train, subject to SAR’s current luggage weight limits. Zamzam water is heavy — each litre weighs 1 kilogram — and Haramain trains have specific luggage allowances per passenger that must be respected. Check the current SAR luggage policy at sar.com.sa before packing, and factor your Zamzam water into your total luggage weight when planning what to pack for the return journey. If your Zamzam water and other luggage exceed the allowance, you may need to check bags in at the station or arrange separate transport for the excess.
What happens if I miss my Haramain train?
If you miss your Haramain train departure, you will need to book a new ticket for the next available service on the same route. Depending on the fare type purchased, your original ticket may not be refundable or transferable — check the cancellation and amendment policy for your specific ticket type when booking. During peak periods such as Ramadan, the next available departure may not be for several hours. This is why arriving at the station at least 45 to 60 minutes before your departure is strongly recommended. If you are travelling with a group organised by your UAE agency, the agency’s guide will typically manage the departure logistics — stay in contact with your group throughout the day.
Disclaimer: Haramain train fares, schedules, luggage policies, and booking procedures are managed by Saudi Railways (SAR) and are subject to change. All fare estimates in this post are indicative ranges accurate at the time of publication. Always verify current fares, schedules, and policies at sar.com.sa or through the Nusuk platform before booking. Information was accurate at the time of publication.