How to Get from Jeddah Airport to Makkah – A Practical Guide for UK Umrah & Hajj Pilgrims
If you're flying from the UK for Hajj or Umrah, one of the first challenges you'll face after landing is figuring out how to get from Jeddah Airport to Makkah. After hours in the air, the last thing you need is confusion at arrivals — especially if you're travelling with elderly parents, young children, or it's your first visit.
As someone who's helped hundreds of British Muslims make this exact journey over the years, I know how overwhelming it can be. So in this guide, I’ll break down your transport options in plain English — what works, what to avoid, and tips for making it as smooth as possible.
🚗 Why This Journey Matters — More Than You Might Think
The road from King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) to Makkah is approximately 100 km, but it can feel significantly longer if you’re not prepared. You're tired, possibly in Ihram, and suddenly you're dealing with airport chaos, queues, and unfamiliar systems — not ideal before a spiritual experience.
British pilgrims often tell me their airport-to-hotel journey sets the tone for the whole trip. Get it right, and everything else falls into place. Get it wrong... and you're playing catch-up, physically and mentally, from the start.
✈️ So, What Are Your Options from Jeddah Airport to Makkah?
Let’s walk through the main choices — including what I usually recommend for UK pilgrims.
1. Private Transfers – Pre-Book and Relax
This is by far the most popular option for families, older travellers, or anyone who just wants a stress-free start.
You’ll be met at arrivals with your name on a placard, bags are handled, and you’re driven straight to your hotel in Makkah — no haggling, no waiting.
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💰 Typical Cost: £70–£100 depending on the vehicle
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👍 Best For: Families, elderly, anyone landing late or during peak season
✅ Why I Recommend It:
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No confusion at the airport
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Air-conditioned comfort (trust me, it matters)
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Drivers who are used to Umrah passengers and understand the Ihram etiquette
👉 Planning Umrah with your parents or kids? This is the easiest option by far.
2. Taxis – Convenient, But Know What You’re Paying
Taxis are lined up outside the terminal, and while they’re easy to grab, they can be unpredictable in terms of price.
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🧾 Fare Range: SAR 250–350 (about £50–£70)
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⚠️ Watch out for: Overcharging, language barriers, unregistered drivers
✅ Tips:
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Use Uber or Careem apps — they work well in Jeddah and prices are fixed
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Always ask to see ID if you're using a local taxi
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Don’t assume they know English or your destination — have it written in Arabic just in case
3. Haramain High-Speed Train – Fast, Clean, and Modern
If you're travelling light and up for a bit of navigation, this is a brilliant option.
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🚄 Travel Time: ~35 minutes
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💷 Fare: SAR 60–100 (£12–£20) per person
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📍 Note: The train station is at the airport, but you’ll still need a taxi from Makkah station to your hotel
✅ Pro Tip:
Book your ticket online in advance — trains fill up fast during Umrah season.
4. Public Buses – Budget-Friendly but Not for Everyone
SAPTCO buses are the cheapest method, but they’re not the most comfortable or convenient — especially if you’re in Ihram or travelling with others.
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🚌 Fare: SAR 20–30 (£4–£6)
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⏱ Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
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📍 Departure: From SAPTCO terminal (not directly at the arrivals hall)
✅ Best For:
Students or solo travellers on a tight budget who speak some Arabic or have been there before
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Private transfer/taxi: 1–1.5 hours (longer during Hajj or Fridays)
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Train: 35 minutes, plus extra time for boarding and local transfer
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Bus: 1.5–2+ hours depending on traffic
💸 Quick Cost Guide (2025 Estimates for UK Travellers)
| Transport Option | Cost (GBP) | Comfort Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | £70–£100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families, elderly |
| Taxi (street/app) | £50–£70 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Solo travellers, couples |
| Haramain Train | £12–£20 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Light travellers |
| SAPTCO Bus | £4–£6 | ⭐⭐ | Budget-conscious pilgrims |
🧳 My Top Travel Tips (Especially for UK Families)
✅ Pre-book if you can — especially for elderly parents or first-timers
✅ Keep your Ihram in your hand luggage if you plan to wear it at Jeddah Airport
✅ Use porters — they’re cheap and incredibly helpful if you have lots of bags
✅ Travel off-peak — night arrivals tend to mean quieter roads
✅ Have your hotel address printed in Arabic just in case your driver doesn't speak English
📍 Final Advice – Choose What Works for You
Not every pilgrim has the same needs. If you’re a young couple with light luggage, the train might work beautifully. But if you're coming with your nan, three suitcases, and your toddler, private transport will be a gift from Allah (and your sanity).
The journey from Jeddah to Makkah is short in distance but big in spiritual weight. Start it right — prepared, peaceful, and focused on your intention.
🙌 Need Help With Transport?
I’ve worked with trusted drivers and providers for years — if you need a reliable pre-booked transfer from Jeddah Airport to Makkah, just drop me a message.
📲 Your Umrah begins the moment you land. Let’s make sure it starts smoothly.
✅ FAQs (Updated)
Q: Can I wear my Ihram on the flight?
Yes — many UK pilgrims put it on before takeoff. Just make sure you cross the miqat in it.
Q: Is Uber available at Jeddah Airport?
Yes, and it’s a safer bet than street taxis for many visitors.
Q: Will my taxi driver speak English?
Not always — always have your hotel address in Arabic just in case.
Q: Is it safe for women to travel solo from the airport to Makkah?
Yes, especially with private or pre-booked options. Just make sure you use a licensed provider.
