The Haramain High-Speed Railway has become an essential part of the Hajj experience, connecting the two holiest cities in Islam along a 453-kilometre route at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour. For Hajj 2026, the train service is expected to carry tens of thousands of pilgrims between Makkah and Madinah, reducing a journey that takes 5-6 hours by road to just 2-2.5 hours by rail.

Route and Stations

The railway runs between Makkah and Madinah with stops at Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, and King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). For pilgrims, the most relevant legs are:

  • Makkah to Madinah: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes (direct)
  • Makkah to Jeddah Airport: approximately 50 minutes
  • Jeddah Airport to Madinah: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

The Makkah station is located in the Rusaifah district, accessible by bus, taxi, or Uber from most pilgrim accommodations. The Madinah station is situated south of the city centre, with regular shuttle services to hotels near the Prophet's Mosque.

What to Expect on Board

Trains operate with air-conditioned cabins in two classes: economy and business. Both classes offer comfortable seating with generous legroom by comparison with road transport. Amenities include toilets, luggage racks, and a bistro car serving beverages and light refreshments.

For pilgrims who have spent days walking in extreme heat between the Hajj sites, the cool, quiet cabin of the Haramain train is a welcome respite. Many pilgrims use the journey time for rest, Quran recitation, or simply recovering energy before the next phase of their pilgrimage.

How to Book

Tickets can be booked through several channels:

  • The official SAR (Saudi Railways) website at sar.hhr.sa
  • The Nusuk app - which integrates train bookings alongside accommodation and other services
  • Third-party booking platforms such as haramainrailway.com and umrahme.com
  • Your Hajj operator - many packages include Haramain train tickets as standard

During Hajj season, demand is extremely high. Pilgrims should book as far in advance as possible. If your Hajj package includes train travel, confirm the booking details with your operator before departing for Saudi Arabia.

Which Countries Are Using It?

For Hajj 2026, Pakistan has confirmed it will transport pilgrims via the Haramain train between Madinah and Makkah as part of its government Hajj scheme. According to reports, approximately 60,000 Indian pilgrims are also expected to use the service this season. The integration between the Saudi national carrier Saudia and Saudi Railways means some pilgrims can book combined air-rail tickets, flying into Madinah and taking the train to Makkah (or vice versa) as a single journey.

This air-rail integration is particularly useful for pilgrims whose Hajj package begins in Madinah. Rather than a long and tiring bus journey to Makkah, the high-speed train offers a fast, comfortable alternative that leaves pilgrims more rested for the demanding Hajj rites ahead.

Practical Tips for Train Travel

  • Arrive early. The stations can be busy during peak Hajj periods. Allow at least 45 minutes before departure.
  • Keep your ticket accessible. You will need to show it at entry gates and potentially on board. Digital tickets on your phone work.
  • Pack light for the journey. Luggage racks are available but space is limited. If you are moving all your belongings between cities, consider using the "Luggage First" service offered by Saudia, which transports bags separately.
  • Charge your devices. Power outlets are available at most seats.
  • Check the timetable. Services run frequently but schedules can change during Hajj season. Verify departure times on the day of travel via the SAR website or Nusuk app.

Why It Matters

Before the Haramain Railway opened, the journey between Makkah and Madinah was exclusively by road - a 5-6 hour bus ride through desert heat, often made after the physical exhaustion of Hajj. The train has transformed this experience, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with mobility challenges. It is one of the most tangible ways that Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 infrastructure investment is directly improving the pilgrim experience.