Transportation in Saudi Arabia: Best Travel Options

Travel between Mecca, Medina, Jeddah, and KAEC in comfort and speed aboard the Haramain Train. Here’s your complete guide to routes, ticket options, onboard features, and practical travel tips.
Last updated: 16.07.2025

What Is the Haramain Train?

The Haramain Train is Saudi Arabia’s flagship high-speed rail service, designed to connect the holy cities of Mecca and Medina with stops in Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). Operational since 2018, it was built to accommodate both religious pilgrims and everyday travelers, providing a fast, safe, and modern transport option. The trains run on a dedicated high-speed track, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

As one of the most advanced rail projects in the Middle East, the Haramain Train serves millions of passengers annually, especially during peak Hajj and Umrah seasons. With its punctual service and smooth ride, the answer to “Is the Haramain Train reliable?” is a resounding yes.

Haramain Train Routes and Stops

The Haramain railway covers approximately 450 kilometers with four main stations: Mecca, Jeddah, King Abdulaziz Airport (KAIA), and Medina. Travel time between Mecca and Medina is around 2.5 hours, making it one of the fastest ways to cross the western region of Saudi Arabia. The Jeddah and KAEC stations offer convenient access to major urban and economic hubs. Trains run multiple times daily, including weekends and religious holidays. Travelers can start their journey at any of these stops and enjoy seamless transfers via taxis or public transportation. Whether you’re flying into Jeddah or heading directly to Mecca, the Haramain Train simplifies your itinerary.
The stations are modern, fully air-conditioned, and equipped with prayer areas and waiting lounges. Each is designed to handle high passenger volumes during Hajj and Umrah seasons. With clear signage in Arabic and English, even first-time visitors find it easy to navigate.

Economy vs. Business Class

The Haramain Train offers two travel classes: economy and business. Economy class features spacious seating with ample legroom, power outlets, luggage racks, and clean onboard restrooms. Business class upgrades your experience with wider leather seats, extra space, quieter cabins, and complimentary snacks and drinks. Both classes are air-conditioned and include tray tables for added convenience.

Travelers often ask: “What is the difference between business and economy in Haramain Train?”—and the answer comes down to added comfort and service in business, which can be ideal during peak seasons or longer rides. Both options offer a smooth and enjoyable journey, depending on your budget and travel needs.

Quick Fact

Business class on the Haramain Train includes wider leather seats, extra legroom, and free snacks and drinks, while economy class offers comfort and efficiency at a lower price—ideal for short or budget-conscious trips.

Onboard Experience & Amenities

Haramain trains are designed with passenger comfort in mind. Each train features climate-controlled cabins, wide aisles, overhead luggage space, and onboard digital screens displaying information in Arabic and English. While there’s no restaurant car, passengers can buy food on the Haramain Train via roving food carts offering snacks, sandwiches, water, and coffee. Both classes provide clean restroom facilities, and dedicated prayer spaces are available at stations rather than on the train. The ride is typically quiet and smooth, ideal for relaxing or catching up on work. Free Wi-Fi is not currently available on board, so downloading entertainment beforehand is a smart move.
Power outlets are available at every seat, making it easy to charge devices during your journey. Seats are spacious and can recline slightly for added comfort. For families or groups, it’s possible to reserve multiple seats together when booking online.

Boarding, Luggage & Etiquette

Passengers should arrive at the station 30–45 minutes before departure for smooth check-in and boarding. Haramain stations are modern, air-conditioned, and include waiting lounges, prayer rooms, and food vendors. Each traveler is allowed two pieces of luggage: one large suitcase (25 kg max) and one small carry-on. Luggage tags are provided during check-in. In terms of etiquette, silence is appreciated—especially in business class—and mobile phones should be used respectfully.

Families, solo travelers, and pilgrims share cabins, making it a calm and respectful environment overall. For those asking “What are the rules for the Haramain Train?”—respect, modesty, and punctuality go a long way.

Quick Fact

Each Haramain passenger can bring one suitcase (max 25 kg) and one small bag. Arrive at least 30 minutes early, as gates close before departure and boarding is done through airport-style check-in.

How to Buy Haramain Train Tickets

Booking tickets is easy and can be done online or at the station. However, during busy periods like Hajj or Ramadan, it’s strongly recommended to book in advance. International travelers can skip local language hurdles by booking through platforms like Rail.Ninja or High-Speed Trains. These platforms offer an English-friendly interface, secure payments, and instant confirmation. Haramain train tickets vary in price based on the class, distance, and time of booking.

The Haramain Train represents a new era of transportation in Saudi Arabia—fast, clean, and highly reliable. Whether you’re visiting the holy cities, exploring Jeddah, or arriving via KAIA, this train service ensures a smooth and stress-free journey. With clear boarding procedures, modern amenities, and convenient online booking, traveling by Haramain is one of the smartest ways to move through the Kingdom. For comfort, efficiency, and ease, the Haramain Train is hard to beat.