Should we take the train or a car between the cities in Ramadan?
Asked by Anonymous pilgrim · 1 Nov 2026
Written and checked by our team, with dated sources.
In short
Either works. The Haramain train is quicker; a private car goes door to door at your pace. In Ramadan, book either early: seats and vehicles are in demand at the start of the month, before the last ten nights and around Eid. Plan the journey so it never takes one of the odd nights.
As of 1 Nov 2026
Marhaba Editorial Desk
Haramain train
Private car
Next step: see private transport in Ramadan, or the Makkah to Madinah transfer page.
Answered 1 Nov 2026 · Facts as of 1 Nov 2026
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Ask our team about your own dates and family — no obligation.
Not always. In the last ten nights, traffic around Masjid al-Haram is heavily restricted, so cars may not reach hotels closest to the Haram. The drop-off point can be a walk from the hotel entrance. We tell you where the car can stop and plan help with luggage.
Two practical options: a pre-booked private car from King Abdulaziz International Airport straight to your hotel, or the Haramain train from the airport station to Makkah station (about 50 minutes) and then a taxi to the hotel. With elderly parents and heavy luggage, a private car is usually easier.
Yes. The Makkah Bus network — 12 routes, about 400 buses and 431 stations as of January 2026 — links many neighbourhoods with the Haram area. Taxis and ride-hailing are also available. Around Jumu'ah, Ramadan and Hajj, roads near the Haram close and journeys take longer.
The Haramain train is fastest on the main stretch (about 2 h 15 min) but needs taxis at both ends. A private car is slower but door to door, which suits families with elderly parents or lots of luggage. Buses are cheapest and slowest.
About 2 hours 15 minutes between Makkah and Madinah, according to Saudi Arabia Railways (2026). Makkah to Jeddah's King Abdulaziz airport takes about 50 minutes, and Madinah to the airport about 1 hour 45 minutes. Some services skip stations, so check the timetable.