Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has reported that the Haramain High Speed Railway carried more than 1.16 million passengers during the 1447 AH Hajj season. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the operator completed the figure across 5,569 trips linking Makkah and Madinah. The announcement, made on June 11, 2026, points to the growing role of rail in moving pilgrims between the two holy cities.
The railway connected the two cities through Jeddah Main Station, King Abdulaziz International Airport Station, and King Abdullah Economic City Station. SAR said the service supported the smooth movement of pilgrims throughout the season and eased travel between the destinations on its network.
A Strong Operational Record
SAR reported an on-time performance rate above 98 percent during the Hajj period. The number of daily trips reached 142 on peak days. The operator described these results as a sign of high readiness and efficient operational management during a period of intense demand.
The Haramain High Speed Railway is among the fastest electric trains in the world, reaching speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour. It links Makkah and Madinah along a 453-kilometer route served by five main stations. The journey between the two cities takes about two and a half hours, far shorter than the six to eight hours a road trip can require during busy periods.
SAR Chief Executive Officer Bashar AlMalik said the results reflected the support provided by the Kingdom's leadership to the pilgrim service system. He credited continuous follow-up from the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and SAR Chairman Saleh Al-Jasser with helping deliver the operational plan at a high level of efficiency.
Why Rail Matters for Pilgrims
Many pilgrims combine their Hajj or Umrah with a visit to the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah. The rail link offers a fast and predictable alternative to the highway, which can become congested during peak travel days. A shorter, more reliable journey reduces fatigue, an important factor for elderly travelers and those with health conditions.
The strong performance during Hajj also signals capacity for the wider Umrah season. With the 1448 AH Umrah season now under way following the resumption of visa issuance, the railway is expected to handle steady demand from pilgrims moving between the cities. SAR has positioned the line as one of the Kingdom's most prominent modern transport projects supporting pilgrim services.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Pilgrims planning to use the Haramain railway should keep a few points in mind. Book early. Seats sell quickly during peak periods, and reserving ahead helps secure a preferred departure time. Arrive with time to spare. Stations can be busy, and clearing entry and reaching the platform takes longer when crowds are large.
Travelers should also confirm the correct station, since both Makkah and Jeddah have dedicated stops and the airport station serves arriving and departing pilgrims directly. Keeping luggage manageable makes boarding easier, as does carrying travel documents and any required permits in an accessible place. Pilgrims should check the latest schedule before travel, since timings shift between the Hajj, Umrah, and regular seasons.
For those weighing transport options, the railway offers a comfortable and air-conditioned journey that avoids road congestion. Combined with the reliability shown during the 1447 Hajj season, it remains a practical choice for pilgrims moving between Makkah and Madinah.