Overview of Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare
Traveling between Makkah and Madinah is a sacred and essential part of the spiritual journey for many Muslims. Whether you’re performing Umrah, Hajj, or simply exploring the holy cities, knowing the Makkah to Madinah taxi fare in advance helps you plan your travel efficiently and within budget.
With a wide range of taxi options now available — from economy to luxury, and private to shared — understanding the fare structure, booking process, and travel times can enhance your overall experience.
Taxi Fare Estimates Between Makkah and Madinah
The average taxi fare depends on various factors like vehicle type, booking platform, and travel season. Below is a general fare estimate:
| Taxi Type | Fare (SAR) | Travel Time | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sedan | 500–700 | 4.5–5 hrs | Couples, Small Families |
| 7-Seater SUV | 700–1000 | 4–5 hrs | Groups, Pilgrims |
| VIP or Luxury | 1200–1800 | 4 hrs | Executives, Private Trips |
| Shared Taxi Seat | 150–250 per seat | 5–6 hrs | Solo Budget Travelers |
These prices are subject to change based on seasonal demand, fuel costs, and specific booking arrangements.
Main Factors Influencing Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare
The following elements directly affect how much you’ll pay for your taxi ride:
Vehicle Type
Luxury vehicles or SUVs command higher prices than economy sedans.
Time of Travel
During Ramadan, Hajj, or school holidays, fares rise due to increased demand.
Booking Method
App-based rides through Uber or Careem offer fixed pricing, while local taxis may offer room for negotiation.
Passenger Count & Luggage
More passengers or excessive luggage may lead to additional charges.
Stops En Route
Any detours or rest stops may impact the final fare, especially with local drivers.
Quick Booking Methods for Taxis
Booking a taxi between Makkah and Madinah has never been easier. Here are the most common ways to secure a ride:
Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber and Careem dominate the Saudi market with real-time pricing, multiple car types, and safe transactions.
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Uber Makkah to Madinah: SAR 600–900
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Careem: Often offers promo codes and discounts
Hotel Concierge Services
Most hotels in Makkah and Madinah offer trusted taxi services through concierge desks. Ideal for travelers looking for reliable, pre-arranged rides.
Taxi Stands & Local Operators
At busy hubs and landmarks, local taxis are easily available. Always agree on the fare before starting the trip to avoid confusion.
Cost Estimator Tools for Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare
Using Uber Fare Estimator
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Visit Uber’s website or app
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Enter pickup: Makkah, drop-off: Madinah
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Choose car type (UberX, Comfort, UberXL)
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View fare range instantly
Careem Fare Calculator
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Log in via the app or web
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Input travel details
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View transparent pricing with optional add-ons (e.g., wait time, tolls)
Local Travel Sites & Forums
Websites like Rome2Rio, Tripadvisor, and Umrah-specific portals sometimes provide live taxi fare averages and traveler feedback.
Which Route Do Taxis Usually Take?
Al Hijrah Highway (Route 15)
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Fastest, direct route between Makkah and Madinah
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Well-maintained with pit stops and service stations
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Travel time: 4.5 hours on average
Alternative Route via Taif (Route 5)
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Longer but scenic
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Used occasionally for detours or personal preferences
How to Save on Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare
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Share the ride with fellow pilgrims or travelers to split costs
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Travel during off-peak hours to avoid demand surges
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Use app promotions or seasonal discounts
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Book round-trips to negotiate better deals with local operators
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Choose standard sedans if you don’t need luxury or extra space
Are Taxis Available 24/7 Between Makkah and Madinah?
Yes, taxis operate around the clock. However, availability of ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem might vary in late-night hours or remote pickup locations. It’s wise to pre-book if you’re planning to travel during odd hours.
Is It Safe to Travel Alone in a Taxi?
Safety in Saudi Arabia is a top priority, especially with app-based rides offering:
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Driver profiles and ratings
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Live location sharing
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Customer service support
Always ensure:
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The taxi is registered
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You verify the car plate and driver details
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You inform someone about your route and estimated arrival
Pros and Cons of Booking a Taxi
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Door-to-door convenience | Higher cost than buses |
| No delays or multiple stops | Prices can spike during peak seasons |
| Flexibility in timing | May require negotiation with locals |
| Real-time app tracking | Language barriers with local drivers |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Makkah to Madinah taxi fare?
Fares range between SAR 500 and SAR 1000 depending on the vehicle type and booking source.
Can I book a Makkah to Madinah taxi online?
Yes, services like Uber and Careem allow online booking with live fare estimations.
Is a shared taxi available for this route?
Yes, shared taxis are available at taxi stands. They cost around SAR 150–250 per seat.
How long does a taxi take from Makkah to Madinah?
Travel time is usually between 4 to 5 hours, depending on the route and traffic.
Is it better to book via an app or local operator?
Apps offer pricing transparency and safety, while local operators might offer flexible pricing for groups.
Are there tolls included in the taxi fare?
If using the Hijrah highway, toll charges may apply and are typically included in the final fare when booking through apps.
Conclusion: Plan Your Journey with Confidence
Whether you’re looking for a budget ride or a VIP experience, understanding the Makkah to Madinah taxi fare helps you travel smarter. Use online tools, compare fare options, and prioritize safety and convenience in your booking. With many services now offering 24/7 availability and digital booking, your trip between the two holy cities can be smooth, fast, and stress-free.