✔ Updated May 2026
Makkah to Madinah Bus Ticket Price 2026
— The Complete Pilgrim’s Guide
SAT Bus (from)
Bus Journey
Distance
Transport Modes
📌 Key Takeaway: The SAT bus is the most budget-friendly option at around SAR 69 per person, while the Haramain High Speed Train offers the fastest journey (2h 20m) at SAR 120–315. Both depart from the Jarwal area in Makkah.
Route Overview: Makkah to Madinah
The road distance between Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah is approximately 450 km, a journey that winds through the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. Three primary transport options connect pilgrims and travelers between these cities:
- Intercity Bus (SAT / Darb Al Watan / NW Bus)
- Haramain High Speed Railway (train)
- Private taxi or shared transfer
Below we break down each option with current 2026 pricing, journey times, and booking information.
Makkah to Madinah Bus Ticket Price 2026
Option 1: SAT Bus (SAPTCO Elsa Transport) — Budget Choice
SAT is the successor to the former SAPTCO intercity operations within Saudi Arabia, now operating under the brand SAT Trans. It remains the most affordable way to travel between Makkah and Madinah by bus.
| Route | Operator | Price (SAR) | Duration | Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah → Madinah | SAT Bus | SAR 69 | 5–7 hours | Cheapest |
| Makkah → Madinah | Darb Al Watan | SAR 130–165 | ~5h 32m | Premium Bus |
| Makkah → Madinah | North West Bus | SAR 200–250 | ~6–7 hours | Comfort |
| Makkah → Madinah | Haramain Train | SAR 120–315 | 2h 20m | Fastest |
| Makkah → Madinah | Private Taxi / Transfer | SAR 400–600+ | 4–5 hours | Door-to-Door |
Prices are indicative 2026 planning ranges. Fares may vary by date, season (Ramadan/Hajj), seat class, and availability. Always confirm prices at the time of booking.
Option 2: Darb Al Watan Bus — Comfortable Mid-Range
Darb Al Watan operates scheduled intercity buses from Jarwal Bus Station in Makkah to Madinah Bus Station, with services running approximately 5 times per day. At SAR 130–165, this operator offers more comfortable seats and a generally more organized boarding experience than the budget option.
⚠ Important 2026 Update: Darb Al Watan’s online booking may show availability that doesn’t match actual operations. Always confirm your ticket directly via their customer service line (8003040155) before purchasing online, particularly for Madinah-bound routes.
Option 3: North West Bus (NW Bus) — Long-Distance Comfort
North West Bus operates from the North West Bus Terminal in Makkah and serves Madinah among other cities. Fares range from SAR 200–250, positioning it as a premium land transport option. Journey time is approximately 6–7 hours including stops.
Full Transport Comparison: Bus vs Train vs Taxi
Before booking, it’s worth comparing all options side-by-side to find what suits your budget, schedule, and comfort needs.
- ✅ Lowest cost
- ✅ Regular departures
- ❌ Longer journey
- ❌ Station drop only
- ✅ Fastest option
- ✅ AC, comfortable
- ✅ Predictable timing
- ❌ Higher price
- ✅ Door-to-door
- ✅ Best for groups
- ❌ Expensive solo
- ❌ Variable quality
Bus Departure & Arrival Points
Makkah Side: Jarwal Bus Station (Jarwal Terminal)
Most intercity buses depart from the Jarwal Bus Station in the Al-Jarwal neighborhood of Makkah. This is also known as the SAPTCO Al-Haram Station. The terminal is located a few kilometers from Masjid Al-Haram, so you’ll need a taxi or Uber to reach it from most hotels — budget approximately SAR 20–40 for this additional ride.
Madinah Side: Madinah Bus Station
Buses arrive at the main Madinah Bus Station (also referred to as Madinah Bus Stn). From here, taxis and ride-hailing apps connect to Masjid Al-Nabawi and nearby hotels, typically costing SAR 15–30.
Bus Schedule & Frequency
Bus schedules between Makkah and Madinah vary by operator:
- Darb Al Watan: Approximately 5 scheduled departures per day from Jarwal Station
- SAT Bus: Multiple daily departures; exact schedule available at satrans.com.sa
- North West Bus: Several departures daily; check nwbus.sa for current timetables
📅 During Ramadan and Hajj season, schedules are often replaced with a “load and go” system where buses depart when full rather than at fixed times. Expect higher demand, longer waits, and potentially higher fares during these periods.
How to Book Your Bus Ticket
- 1
Choose Your Operator — Compare SAT Trans (satrans.com.sa), Darb Al Watan (darbalwatan.com), or NW Bus (nwbus.sa/en) based on your budget and schedule.
- 2
Book Online or at the Counter — All three operators have websites and mobile apps. You can also purchase tickets at the Jarwal Bus Station counter on the day of travel, though online booking is recommended in peak season.
- 3
Confirm Your Boarding Point — Always confirm the exact departure terminal and stand number with the operator, as terminals can shift or have multiple points.
- 4
Arrive Early — Plan to arrive at the station at least 30–45 minutes before departure, especially during Ramadan or peak Hajj and Umrah seasons.
- 5
Payment — Most operators accept credit card and digital payments online. Cash is accepted at station counters.
The Haramain High Speed Train: Is It Worth It?
For many pilgrims, the Haramain High Speed Railway is the preferred choice despite the higher fare. Operated by the Saudi Railways Company (SAR), the train runs hourly between Makkah and Madinah, covering the journey in just 2 hours 20 minutes.
Ticket prices range from approximately SAR 120–315 per person depending on whether you choose Economy or Business class, and how far in advance you book. Booking via the official Haramain app or website is strongly recommended — tickets sell out quickly during Ramadan and Hajj.
💡 Who should take the train? Families with young children, elderly pilgrims, or anyone who values time savings and a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with predictable timing. The train is especially worthwhile after long days of worship when fatigue sets in.
Money-Saving Tips for the Journey
- Book in advance: Bus and train fares can rise closer to departure, especially in peak season.
- Travel off-peak: Midweek departures and non-Ramadan periods typically offer better seat availability and stable pricing.
- Groups of 4+: A private taxi at SAR 400–600 per car can be cost-competitive with train tickets for larger groups traveling together.
- Check SAT first: At SAR 69, the SAT bus remains the lowest-cost option for budget-conscious solo travelers.
- Allow buffer time: Factor in getting to/from bus stations at both ends — these add 30–60 minutes and SAR 30–60 per person to your total cost.
Frequently Asked Questions