Medina Hotel to Makkah Hotel: A Complete Travel Guide for Pilgrims and Tourists
Medina Hotel to Makkah Hotel: A Complete Travel Guide for Pilgrims and Tourists
Blog Article
Traveling from Medina hotel to Makkah hotel is more than just moving between two cities. It's a spiritual transition, a deeply personal journey that thousands of Muslims undertake every day. Whether you're heading from your Medina hotel to a hotel in Makkah for Hajj, Umrah, or simple tourism, this guide will help you make that journey smooth, stress-free, and meaningful.
Understanding the Distance Between Medina and Makkah
Distance in Kilometers and Miles
Medina and Makkah are approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) apart. While that might not seem far, the journey’s nature can vary greatly depending on your travel mode and the time of year.
Average Travel Time by Different Modes
By Car: 4.5 to 5 hours
By Bus: 6 to 8 hours
By Train: 2.5 to 3 hours
By Air: Around 1 hour flight + 1.5 hours transfer
Transportation Options
By Bus
SAPTCO and Private Buses
SAPTCO is the government-run bus service offering reliable, affordable travel. Private companies also operate luxurious buses with Wi-Fi and snacks.
By Car
Driving Yourself
If you have an international license, renting a car is a flexible option. The roads are well-maintained, and road signs are in English and Arabic.
Renting a Vehicle
Plenty of agencies offer rentals. Make sure to book early, especially during Hajj or Ramadan.
By Train
Haramain High-Speed Railway
The best option by far. It’s fast, clean, and connects both cities directly with stops in Jeddah and KAEC. Booking can be done online, and seats are comfy even in economy class.
By Air
Flights Between Medina and Jeddah + Transfer to Makkah
While there’s no airport in Makkah, you can fly from Medina to Jeddah and then take a taxi or bus to Makkah. It’s good if you're in a hurry or have international flights to catch.
Booking Your Accommodation
Top Hotels in Medina Near the Prophet’s Mosque
Pullman ZamZam Madina
Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick
Dar Al Taqwa Hotel
Top Hotels in Makkah Near the Haram
Swissôtel Al Maqam Makkah
Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower
Conrad Makkah
What to Look for When Booking a Hotel
Always check for:
Proximity to the mosques
Free shuttle services
Wi-Fi and breakfast options
Guest reviews for cleanliness
Best Routes from Medina Hotel to Makkah Hotel
Fastest Route
Highway 15 is the quickest and most direct route. It’s a straight shot from city to city.
Scenic Route for Travelers
Want to soak in some desert landscapes? Take Route 60—it's a little longer but offers breathtaking views.
Route for Pilgrims (Miqat Consideration)
Make sure to stop at Dhul-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali) to enter into Ihram if you're going for Umrah or Hajj.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Packing Essentials
Don’t forget:
Ihram clothing
ID and permits
Water bottle
Snacks
Phone charger and power bank
Food and Hydration on the Go
Dates, nuts, and bottled water are your best friends. Stay hydrated—desert heat is no joke.
Avoiding Peak Hours
Try to travel early morning or late evening to avoid heat and traffic. Fridays can be busier than usual.
Cultural and Religious Etiquette
Behavior During Ihram
No perfumes, no cutting nails or hair, and maintain a peaceful demeanor.
Dress Code Reminders
Keep it modest. Women should wear abayas; men should dress respectfully if not in Ihram.
Respecting Local Customs
Always greet with “Assalamu Alaikum” and respect prayer times.
Cost Breakdown of the Journey
Transportation Cost
Bus: SAR 60–150
Train: SAR 150–300
Taxi/Car: SAR 400–800
Flight + Taxi: SAR 500–1000
Accommodation Range
Budget: SAR 150–300/night
Mid-range: SAR 300–600/night
Luxury: SAR 600–1500+/night
Additional Expenses
Meals: SAR 20–100/day
Souvenirs: Varies
Mobile data & SIM: SAR 30–100
Planning for Umrah or Hajj
Ihram from Medina
Buy your Ihram clothes before leaving Medina. Most hotels have them available.
Miqat Location (Dhul-Hulayfah)
It’s about 10–15 minutes outside Medina. Buses often stop here for Ihram.
Spiritual Preparation
Read up on Umrah rituals, recite prayers, and mentally prepare for the journey.
Recommended Travel Agencies and Apps
Top-Rated Agencies
Al-Tayyar
Dar Al Eiman
Zamzam Tours
Useful Travel Apps for Pilgrims
Nusuk for Umrah permits
Google Maps for directions
Careem/Uber for transport
Safety and Health Tips
Staying Healthy in the Heat
Hydrate regularly, wear sunglasses, and avoid direct sun.
First Aid Essentials
Bring a small kit: band-aids, painkillers, antiseptic, and motion sickness meds.
Travel Insurance Info
Highly recommended—covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost items.
Language and Communication
Common Arabic Phrases
"Kam al-i'jara?" – How much is the fare?
"Ayna al-Haram?" – Where is the Grand Mosque?
"Shukran" – Thank you
Hotel and Taxi Communication Tips
Have your hotel name and address written in Arabic to show drivers.
Environmental Considerations
Keeping the Holy Cities Clean
Use the bins. Don’t litter, especially in sacred areas.
Eco-Friendly Travel Choices
Use reusable water bottles and take shared transport where possible.
Conclusion
The journey from a Medina hotel to a Makkah hotel isn't just a transfer—it's a spiritual voyage filled with meaning, memories, and purpose. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, planning smartly can make your experience comfortable and enriching. May your trip be safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling!
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest way to travel from Medina to Makkah?
Taking a SAPTCO bus is usually the most budget-friendly option, costing around SAR 60–80.
2. Can I do Umrah directly after arriving from Medina?
Yes, but remember to enter into Ihram at the Miqat (Dhul-Hulayfah) before heading to Makkah.
3. How far is the Miqat from Medina city?
Dhul-Hulayfah (the Miqat) is approximately 15 km (about 10 miles) from central Medina.
4. Are women allowed to travel alone between Medina and Makkah?
Yes, under current regulations, women can travel alone, especially for Umrah. Always check for the latest rules.
5. Is there Wi-Fi on the train from Medina to Makkah?
Yes, the Haramain High-Speed Railway offers free Wi-Fi for passengers.