The Haramain train between Makkah and Madinah

For many years, pilgrims travelled between Makkah and Madinah by road, a long drive through the desert. Since 2018, the Haramain High Speed Railway has linked the two cities. Every Tuyba Umrah package uses the train between them.

The line

The railway runs for about 450 km between Makkah and Madinah, with stations in Jeddah, at King Abdulaziz International Airport and at King Abdullah Economic City on the way. The trains are designed for speeds of up to 300 km/h. A direct journey between Makkah and Madinah takes a little over two hours; trains that stop at the intermediate stations take longer.

The stations are outside the city centres. Makkah station is a short drive from Masjid al-Haram, and Madinah station is a short drive from the Prophet's Mosque, so the journey includes a transfer at each end.

Classes and tickets

Trains have economy and business classes. Tickets are sold through the railway's official website and app. On a Tuyba package you do not buy your own ticket: the train is part of the package, along with the transfers between your hotels and the stations.

Luggage

There is a luggage allowance per passenger; check the current rules before you pack. Keep valuables, documents and medicines in a small bag that stays with you.

Travelling in ihram

On a Madinah-first package, the train takes you to Makkah to perform Umrah. You enter ihram before you pass the miqat of Dhul Hulayfah; the programme includes time to prepare for ihram and make the intention before the train. Wear your ihram on the train, keep the talbiyah on your lips, and keep unscented products to hand.

On a Makkah-first package you have already completed Umrah when you take the train to Madinah, so you travel in your ordinary clothes.

On the day

• Your hotel check-out time and the train time are usually different. Keep a change of clothes and anything you need in your cabin bag.
• Be at the station in good time, with your ticket and passport ready.
• The carriages are air-conditioned and can feel cool. A light layer helps.
• Bringing water and a small snack is sensible.

Why it matters for your plans

Because the train is quick, moving between the cities takes much less of your day than the old road journey did. You can check out after a prayer in one holy city and arrive in time for a later prayer in the other. Your specialist confirms the train times with your other travel details.