Quick Facts
What Is the Haramain High-Speed Railway?
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is Saudi Arabia’s flagship intercity passenger rail service, operated by Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR). It runs a 449-kilometer main line from Makkah to Madinah, passing through Jeddah, and includes a dedicated 3.75-kilometer branch line connecting directly to King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah.
The line opened commercially in October 2018 and expanded to KAIA in December 2019. It is one of the world’s fastest passenger trains, reaching up to 300 km/h, and transforms the Makkah to Madinah journey from a five-hour road trip into a comfortable 2-hour 20-minute rail ride.
The railway is not only a pilgrimage service. It also connects residents, tourists, students, and business travelers between Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). Over 2 million seats were offered during the Hajj 1446 AH season, representing more than 400,000 additional seats compared to the previous year.
The Haramain train runs on electricity, uses purpose-built Talgo trains with climate-controlled coaches, and serves stations designed to the standard of international airports with prayer facilities, retail outlets, dedicated lounges for Business class, and full accessibility for Persons with Reduced Mobility.
The Five Stations
1. Makkah Station
Makkah Station is located in the southern part of the city, approximately 5 to 7 km from Masjid al-Haram. Facilities include prayer rooms, retail outlets, a café, waiting lounges, a Business class VIP lounge, secure luggage storage, and full accessibility. Taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem), and hotel shuttle buses are the primary options for the onward journey to the Haram. During peak Hajj and Umrah seasons, expect queues for taxis. Arranging transport in advance is strongly recommended.
2. Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah Station (Jeddah City Station)
Located in the central Sulaymaniyah district of Jeddah, this is the main Jeddah city station for residents, day-trippers, and travelers connecting to Jeddah rather than the airport. Well-connected to central Jeddah by taxi and ride-hailing.
3. King Abdulaziz International Airport Station (KAIA)
The airport station provides direct rail access between the holy cities and Jeddah’s international airport. Pilgrims arriving at KAIA can board the Haramain train directly in the airport complex and travel to Makkah or Madinah without first entering the city. This is one of the most seamless airport-to-holy-city connections in the world. The station is connected to the airport terminal by covered walkways.
4. King Abdullah Economic City Station (KAEC)
KAEC is a planned city on the Red Sea coast between Jeddah and Madinah. The station serves residents, visitors to the Jeddah Season events at KAEC, and students at Effat and other institutions nearby. Less frequently used than the other four stations.
5. Madinah Station
Madinah Station is located in the western part of the city, approximately 6 to 8 km from Masjid al-Nabawi. Facilities mirror those at Makkah Station: prayer rooms, retail, café, luggage storage, Business class lounge, and full accessibility. Taxi and ride-hailing services connect to the Prophet’s Mosque. During peak Ramadan and Hajj periods, pre-arranging hotel transfers is advisable.
Ticket Prices 2026: Complete Fare Table
Haramain train prices are dynamic and vary by booking time, season, and availability. The fares below are approximate ranges verified from multiple sources as of May 2026. Always confirm the exact price at sar.hhr.sa or the HHR app at the time of booking, as fares fluctuate.
Route Prices (Approximate, One-Way, Including VAT)
| Route | Economy Class (SAR) | Business Class (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah to Madinah | 145 to 200 | 240 to 300 | 2 hr 20 min |
| Madinah to Makkah | 145 to 200 | 240 to 300 | 2 hr 20 min |
| Makkah to Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah | 55 to 75 | 95 to 130 | ~40 min |
| Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah to Makkah | 55 to 75 | 95 to 130 | ~40 min |
| Makkah to KAIA (Jeddah Airport) | 60 to 80 | 100 to 130 | ~45 min |
| KAIA to Makkah | 60 to 80 | 100 to 130 | ~45 min |
| Jeddah (City or Airport) to Madinah | 100 to 130 | 180 to 220 | ~1 hr 40 min |
| Madinah to Jeddah (City or Airport) | 100 to 130 | 180 to 220 | ~1 hr 40 min |
| Makkah to KAEC | 40 to 55 | 70 to 95 | ~55 min |
| Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah to Madinah | 85 to 120 | 150 to 190 | ~1 hr 30 min |
These are indicative fare ranges based on 2026 booking data. Prices rise during peak periods (Hajj, Ramadan, Eid, weekends). Early booking locks in lower fares.
Discounts and Special Fares
Children (ages 2 to 11): 40% off the adult fare. Children must have a seat.
Infants (under 2): 90% off if they need their own seat. Free if traveling on a parent’s lap without requiring a separate seat.
Students: 25% discount with a valid international student ID. Verify eligibility at sar.hhr.sa.
Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM): 50% discount. Pre-book accessibility assistance through SAR customer support.
Groups (10 or more passengers): 15 to 20% discount for groups of 6 or more passengers, with guaranteed adjacent seating and dedicated group check-in counters. Contact SAR Commercial Sales for group bookings.
Hajj and Umrah season discounts: SAR has historically offered up to 50% off round-trip tickets on selected routes during the Hajj season. For Hajj 1446 AH (2025), discounts of 40 to 50% were available on round-trip tickets across all classes. Similar seasonal discounts are expected for the upcoming Umrah 1448 AH season. Monitor sar.hhr.sa for announcements.
Visa rejection refund: If your Saudi visa application is rejected, SAR offers a full refund on submission of the official rejection document from the Saudi embassy. Service charges of SAR 25 to SAR 50 may apply. Processing takes 10 to 15 working days.
Economy vs Business Class: What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Economy Class | Business Class |
|---|---|---|
| Seating layout | 2+2 (four seats per row) | 1+2 or wider seats |
| Seat recline | Standard | More recline |
| Legroom | Standard | More |
| Fold-down tables | Yes | Yes |
| Power outlets | Yes (USB and standard) | Yes |
| Screen or entertainment | Basic | Enhanced |
| Meals or snacks | Available for purchase | Light refreshments included (varies) |
| Boarding | Standard | Priority |
| Lounge access | No | Yes (VIP lounges at stations) |
| Price premium | Base price | Approximately 70 to 100% over Economy |
Which class to choose: Economy is perfectly comfortable for the 2-hour 20-minute Makkah to Madinah journey and represents excellent value. Business class is worth considering for the longer journey if you want priority boarding, lounge access, and more space, or for elderly travelers and families with young children who benefit from the extra comfort.
How to Book Haramain Train Tickets in 2026
Method 1: Official HHR Website (sar.hhr.sa)
- Go to sar.hhr.sa and select your preferred language (Arabic or English)
- Click Book a Ticket or Train Tickets
- Select your departure station and arrival station
- Choose your travel date and number of passengers
- Select the number of adults, children, and infants
- Choose your preferred departure time from the available schedules
- Select your class (Economy or Business) and specific seats if desired. Seat selection is free.
- Enter passenger details:
- Saudi residents: Iqama number
- Foreign nationals: passport number (as it appears on the physical passport)
- Review your booking summary and confirm the total price
- Pay via credit card, debit card, Mada (Saudi domestic card), or available digital payment methods
- Receive your e-ticket by SMS and email. The e-ticket contains a QR code for scanning at the gate.
Method 2: HHR Mobile App
- Download the HHR Train app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
- Log in or create an account
- Tap Book, select your route, date, passengers, and class
- Enter passenger details and pay
- The e-ticket is stored in the app and sent by SMS/email
The app provides real-time schedule updates, live train status, and notifications if your departure is delayed.
Method 3: Station Ticket Offices
Available at all five stations. Bring your Iqama or passport. Staff speak Arabic and English. Note that tickets purchased at station offices and vending machines cannot be changed or refunded, so only use this method if you are certain of your plans.
Method 4: Station Self-Service Kiosks
Touchscreen kiosks are available at all stations in Arabic and English. Enter your destination, date, passenger details, and pay by card. Print your ticket or receive a digital QR code. Same no-refund restriction as ticket office purchases.
Method 5: Travel Agencies and Umrah Package Operators
For pilgrims booking through Umrah or Hajj package operators, train tickets can often be bundled into the full package alongside flights, hotels, and ground transport. This is particularly convenient for pilgrims arriving from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other countries who want everything arranged before departure.
Timetable: How to Find Current Schedules
Haramain train schedules change daily based on demand, seasonal needs, and operational adjustments. There is no fixed, permanent public timetable.
The only reliable source for current timetables is sar.hhr.sa. When you enter your route and date, the available departures for that specific day are shown in real time.
Approximate frequency of services:
- On peak days (Fridays, Eid, Ramadan weekdays, Hajj season): trains typically run from early morning to late evening with departures every 30 to 60 minutes on main routes
- On quieter weekdays: services may be less frequent, and some mid-day slots may have limited availability
Journey time summary:
- Makkah to Madinah (direct): approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
- Makkah to Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah: approximately 40 minutes
- Makkah to KAIA (Airport): approximately 45 minutes
- Jeddah to Madinah: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Some services are direct between major cities; others call at all five stations. Check the stop pattern for your specific departure at booking.
Luggage Rules and Allowances
Checked/hold luggage: 1 piece of large luggage per passenger. Maximum weight: 25 kg. Maximum dimensions: 65 x 55 x 35 cm. Items exceeding these dimensions cannot be brought onto the train and must be checked via the courier service available at HHR stations.
Hand luggage: 1 additional piece per passenger. This can be a backpack, a laptop bag, a camera bag, a purse, a nursery bag, or a similar item.
Bicycles and large sports equipment: Not permitted as cabin or hold items. Contact SAR customer service for alternative arrangements.
Food and beverages: Small drinks in original sealed packaging are permitted. No alcohol. No strong-smelling foods that may disturb other passengers.
Prohibited items on board: Flammable liquids, weapons, large tools, and any items on the Saudi security prohibited list. See the full list at sar.hhr.sa.
Excess luggage: If you have more luggage than the allowance, use the courier service at the station before boarding. Attempting to bring excess luggage onto the train may result in denial of boarding.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
| Cancellation timing | Refund |
|---|---|
| More than 24 hours before departure | Full refund, no fee |
| Between 24 hours and 10 minutes before departure | 35% cancellation fee; 65% refunded |
| Less than 10 minutes before departure or no-show | No refund |
| Ticket bought at station office or kiosk | No changes or refunds permitted |
| Train delayed more than 2 hours (SAR’s fault) | Full refund and compensation per Passenger Charter |
| Train cancelled due to force majeure | Full ticket refund; no compensation |
| Visa rejection (with official document) | Full refund; SAR 25 to 50 service charge may apply |
Important rules:
- All tickets are non-transferable and can only be used by the named passenger
- Your ticket is valid only for the specific departure you booked. Missing your train means purchasing a new ticket
- If you are late to the boarding gate, your booking is canceled with no refund
- Discounts do not apply to special offers or promotional fares
- SAR reserves the right to amend prices at any time
To cancel or change: Log in to sar.hhr.sa or use the HHR app, go to My Bookings, and select the ticket you want to cancel or modify. Changes and cancellations must be made within the policy window above.
Station Facilities
All five Haramain stations are purpose-built facilities with the following features:
Prayer rooms: Separate prayer halls for men and women, with ablution areas and prayer time displays.
Waiting lounges: Air-conditioned seating areas with charging points, digital information screens, and announcement systems in Arabic and English.
Business class VIP lounges: Available at Makkah, Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah, KAIA, and Madinah stations. Access for Business class passengers only. Includes comfortable seating, refreshments, and priority boarding access.
Retail and food: Convenience stores, cafes, and food outlets at all major stations. Options increase at Makkah and Madinah stations.
Accessibility (PRM): All stations and trains are fully equipped with wheelchair ramps, lifts, and designated spaces for Persons with Reduced Mobility. Pre-book accessibility assistance through SAR customer support for the smoothest experience.
Luggage storage: Secure left-luggage facilities are available at main stations.
Security screening: All passengers pass through airport-style security before boarding. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure; 60 minutes is recommended during peak periods.
Practical Tips for the Haramain Train
Book early, especially during peak seasons. Hajj season (late May to early June 2026), Ramadan, and Eid periods see extremely high demand. Seats sell out days or weeks in advance. The price is also significantly lower when booked early versus the day before.
Use the HHR app for real-time updates. If you have an existing booking and your train is running late, the app sends push notifications. This is particularly useful at Makkah Station, where transport to your accommodation may need to be rescheduled.
The airport connection is one of the best in the world. Arriving pilgrims at KAIA can walk directly from the international arrivals hall to the Haramain train platform via covered walkways and board the Makkah train in under 45 minutes. No taxi, no road traffic. For pilgrims arriving at Jeddah Airport, this is the smoothest and most stress-free connection possible.
Transport to and from stations requires planning. Neither Makkah Station nor Madinah Station is within walking distance of the Haramain. Ride-hailing apps (Uber and Careem) work in both cities but can be extremely busy during prayer times and peak pilgrimage periods. Hotel shuttle services are the most reliable option during Hajj and Umrah.
Economy class is entirely adequate. The trains are clean, modern, and air-conditioned. The 2-hour 20-minute journey is not long enough for Economy to feel uncomfortable. Save the Business class premium for elderly travelers, young children, or when you genuinely want the lounge and priority boarding experience.
Bags at the gate. SAR security at Haramain stations is thorough. Do not carry any of the prohibited items. Liquids follow the same rules as international aviation security. Arrive early to allow for queuing at security, particularly during Hajj.
Food and water. Bring water for the journey, particularly if traveling with elderly or young passengers. The on-board bistro car has beverages and snacks. Makkah and Madinah can be very hot, especially from May to September. Staying hydrated during the station-to-hotel transfer is important.
Haramain Train vs Private Car vs Bus: Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Haramain Train | Private Transfer (Taxi/SUV) | SAPTCO Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah to Madinah time | 2 hr 20 min | 5 to 6 hours | 5 to 7 hours |
| Solo traveler cost | SAR 145 to 200 | SAR 400 to 600 | SAR 80 to 130 |
| Family of 4 cost | SAR 580 to 800 | SAR 700 to 1,000 (full vehicle) | SAR 320 to 520 |
| Door to door | No (taxi to/from station) | Yes | No (bus terminal) |
| Luggage | 1 large bag + 1 hand bag | Flexible | Flexible |
| Peak season reliability | Very high (scheduled) | Variable (traffic) | Variable |
| Comfort | High (air con, seats, power) | High | Moderate |
| Best for | Solo travelers, couples, speed | Families with heavy luggage, elderly | Budget travelers |
Summary: For solo travelers and couples who prioritize speed and want to experience the high-speed rail, the Haramain train is the clear choice. For families of 3 or more with standard luggage, a private vehicle often works out cheaper and eliminates the need for two taxi rides (to and from both stations). For budget travelers, SAPTCO buses cover the same routes at a lower cost but take significantly longer.
Hajj 1447 AH (2026) Haramain Train Notes
Hajj 1447 AH falls on Arafat Day on 26 May 2026 (based on moon sighting). The Haramain train will be one of the primary transport options for pilgrims moving between Makkah and Madinah in the weeks before and after Hajj.
Based on the pattern established in Hajj 1446 AH, expect:
- Significantly increased train frequency during the Hajj season (SAR ran over 4,700 trips in 1446 AH)
- Hajj season round-trip discounts of up to 50% on key routes (check sar.hhr.sa for 1447 AH announcements)
- Very high demand in the 10 days before and after Hajj; book weeks in advance
- Extended station operating hours with additional staffing during peak pilgrimage days
- Possible capacity restrictions at Makkah Station immediately before and after Arafat Day due to crowd management
Pilgrims on Hajj packages may have train tickets pre-arranged by their Hajj group operator. Confirm with your operator before purchasing separately to avoid duplication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Economy class tickets from Makkah to Madinah range from approximately SAR 145 to SAR 200, depending on booking time and season. Business class ranges from approximately SAR 240 to SAR 300. Prices are lower when booked early and higher during peak Hajj, Ramadan, and Eid periods. Check current fares at sar.hhr.sa or the HHR app.
Go to sar.hhr.sa, select your route and date, choose departure time and class, enter passenger details (Iqama number for residents, passport number for foreign visitors), pay online, and receive your e-ticket by SMS and email. You can also book through the HHR app on iOS and Android.
Cancellations more than 24 hours before departure receive a full refund with no fee. Cancellations between 24 hours and 10 minutes before departure incur a 35% fee. No-shows and cancellations within 10 minutes of departure receive no refund. Tickets bought at station offices or kiosks cannot be changed or refunded.
The Haramain train has five stations: Makkah, Jeddah Al Sulaymaniyah (Jeddah city), King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA), King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), and Madinah. Some services are direct between major cities; others stop at all five.
The Haramain train reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h, making it one of the fastest passenger trains in the world. The Makkah to Madinah journey of approximately 450 km takes about 2 hours 20 minutes.
Each passenger may bring one large piece of luggage (maximum 25 kg, maximum dimensions 65 x 55 x 35 cm) and one hand luggage item, such as a backpack or laptop bag. Excess luggage must be checked via the courier service at the station. There is no provision for bringing more than the allowance onto the train.
Yes. Children aged 2 to 11 receive a 40% discount on the adult fare. Infants under 2 travel at 90% discount if they need their own seat, or free if traveling on a parent’s lap. Students with a valid international student ID receive 25% off.
Yes, if seats are available. However, during peak seasons (Hajj, Ramadan, Eid, weekends), trains sell out in advance. Same-day booking is possible via sar.hhr.sa or the HHR app for quieter travel periods. Book as early as possible for any travel during the Hajj or Umrah seasons.
Makkah Station is located approximately 5 to 7 km south of Masjid al-Haram. Taxis, Uber, Careem, and hotel shuttle buses connect the station to accommodations near the Grand Mosque. Plan at least 20 to 40 minutes for this connection, and longer during peak prayer times.
Yes. There is a dedicated branch line to King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) station, which is connected to the airport terminal by covered walkways. Arriving pilgrims can board the train to Makkah or Madinah directly from the airport without entering the city.
Summary
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is the fastest, most comfortable, and most reliable way to travel between Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah. For Umrah pilgrims, residents, and international travelers alike, it eliminates hours of road travel and transforms one of the most congested intercity routes in the world into a smooth 2-hour journey.
Book early at sar.hhr.sa or on the HHR app. Economy class is an excellent value and entirely adequate for the journey. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure (60 minutes during peak seasons) as security screening takes time. And if you are arriving at Jeddah Airport on the way to Makkah, the KAIA station connection is genuinely world-class.
Related guides on Saudi Scoop:
- SAPTCO Bus Ticket Prices 2026 for the bus alternative between Saudi cities
- Visitor SIM Card Packages Saudi Arabia 2026 for getting connected on arrival
- Saudi Family Visit Visa 2026 for bringing family to visit the Kingdom
- Umrah Season 1448 AH Guide for the Umrah season calendar
DISCLAIMER: Ticket prices, timetables, and policies are subject to change by Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) at any time. All prices are approximate and include 15% VAT. Saudi Scoop is not affiliated with SAR or the Haramain High-Speed Railway. Always verify current prices, schedules, and terms at sar.hhr.sa before booking.
Vania Ali is a dentist by profession and a passionate blogger at Saudi Scoop. With a love for writing and exploring new places, Vania shares insightful content that informs and inspires readers while embracing the thrill of travel.
