Planning to travel from Jeddah Airport to Makkah? Whether you’re arriving for Umrah, Hajj, or just exploring the sacred city, the journey between Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) and Makkah is a critical part of your trip. With a distance of around 95 km, the journey is fairly short but requires some thoughtful planning, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
About King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED)
Located in Jeddah, KAIA is one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia, especially during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Terminal Overview
North Terminal: Mostly international flights.
South Terminal: Primarily domestic.
Hajj Terminal: Specifically for pilgrims.
Pilgrim-Friendly Facilities
Prayer areas
Zamzam water stations
Pilgrim guides and translation services
Dedicated lounges and signage in multiple languages
Travel Options from Jeddah Airport to Makkah
There are several transport options, each with their own pros and cons.
Taxi Services
Easily available outside the terminal.
Pros: Quick, direct, available 24/7
Cons: Prices may vary, language barrier
Estimated Cost: SAR 200–300 (USD 53–80)
Ride-Sharing Apps
Apps like Uber and Careem are fully operational in Saudi Arabia.
Offers upfront pricing and app-based booking
Convenient but can surge during busy times
Private Car Transfers
Bookable in advance online.
Comfortable, especially for families or groups
Available with English-speaking drivers
Bus Services
Saptco and other companies operate intercity buses.
Budget-friendly but less convenient
Limited schedules
Haramain High-Speed Train
One of the fastest options.
Around 45 mins to Makkah
Requires booking in advance
You’ll need to take a taxi to/from train stations
Best Choice for Pilgrims – Umrah Taxi Services
Pilgrims prefer dedicated Umrah taxi services for comfort and religious convenience.
Why Choose Umrah Taxis?
Drivers understand the needs of pilgrims
Stops for Ihram changing available
Route optimized for pilgrims
What’s Included?
Clean, air-conditioned vehicles
Assistance with baggage
Optional Ziarat tours
Book in Advance
Websites like Hujjaj Umrah Taxi allow easy booking.
Estimated Travel Time and Distance
Distance: ~95 kilometers
Normal Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Rush Hour or Hajj Time: Up to 3 hours
Best Routes
Route 40 (via Al Haramain Expressway)
Toll roads available for faster travel
Cost Breakdown of Each Transport Option
Transport Mode Approx. Cost (SAR) Notes
Standard Taxi 200–300 Most common option
Ride Share 250–350 Subject to surge pricing
Umrah Taxi 250–400 Includes pilgrimage amenities
Train + Taxi 150–250 Fast but requires multiple steps
Bus 80–120 Budget-friendly
What to Expect During the Journey
Expect a smooth but busy route, especially during prayer times or Hajj season.
Travel Tips
Carry snacks and water
Use restroom before leaving the airport
Stay connected with a local SIM card
Preparing for the Journey to Makkah
Ihram and Niyyah
Change into Ihram at the airport or Miqat
Make your Niyyah and Talbiyah
Essentials to Carry
Passport, visa, prayer mat
Zamzam bottle, tissues, Ihram belt
Helpful Apps
Nusuk App
Google Maps
Careem / Uber
Arrival in Makkah
Entry Points
There are designated roads for pilgrims entering Makkah. Be sure your driver knows the access points.
Hotel Check-in
Most hotels are near the Haram. Keep a screenshot of your booking.
Important Rules for Travelers
Visa Compliance: Make sure your visa type allows travel to Makkah
Ihram: Men should wear white unstitched garments
Respectful Behavior: Avoid loud conversations, wear modest clothing
Accessibility for Elderly and Disabled Travelers
Wheelchair-accessible taxis and hotel facilities are available
Inform the service provider in advance
Safety and Security Tips
Don’t share your taxi with strangers unless arranged
Keep important documents close
Use trusted transport services only
Recommended Taxi Service: Hujjaj Umrah Taxi
Why Choose Hujjaj Umrah Taxi?
Trusted by thousands of pilgrims
English-speaking drivers
Affordable packages for round trips and Ziarat tours
How to Book
Visit hujjajumrahtaxi.com
Choose your route and type of car
Confirm via WhatsApp or email
Tips to Save Money and Time
Book online early
Avoid peak Hajj days unless required
Choose bundle services for discounts
Final Checklist Before You Go
✅ Passport and visa
✅ Local currency
✅ Ihram garments
✅ Hotel address
✅ Transport contact info
Conclusion
The journey from Jeddah Airport to Makkah is more than just a drive — it’s the beginning of a deeply spiritual experience. With the right planning and a trusted transport service like Hujjaj Umrah Taxi, your trip will be smooth, comfortable, and stress-free. Whether it’s your first Umrah or you’re a returning pilgrim, having the right travel partner makes all the difference.
FAQs
- What is the fastest way to get from Jeddah Airport to Makkah?
The Haramain High-Speed Train is the fastest, but taxis offer direct door-to-door convenience. - How much does a taxi from Jeddah to Makkah cost?
Anywhere between SAR 200 to 400 depending on the vehicle and service type. - Can I travel from Jeddah Airport to Makkah without Ihram?
Only if you’re not performing Umrah/Hajj. Pilgrims must wear Ihram before crossing the Miqat. - Are there shared taxi options available?
Yes, some services offer group rides to reduce cost. - Is it safe to travel late at night?
Yes, but always use trusted services and avoid unfamiliar drivers.