Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare Comparison – Private, Shared & Online Booking Prices Explained
Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare comparison for 2025: private, shared, and online booking prices explained for a smoother pilgrimage journey.
Traveling between Makkah and Madinah is one of the most spiritually significant journeys for any pilgrim visiting Saudi Arabia. Whether you're a solo traveler, part of a family group, or managing a Hajj or Umrah group, choosing the right transportation is crucial. This article offers a detailed Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare comparison for 2025—breaking down private, shared, and online booking prices to help you choose the best option for your travel needs and budget.
Why Compare Taxi Options for Makkah to Madinah?
The approximate 450 km journey between Makkah and Madinah takes between 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, stops, and chosen route. But when it comes to cost and convenience, the choice of taxi makes a significant difference. This comprehensive guide ensures you’re fully informed before booking.
Overview of 2025 Taxi Fare Categories
Let’s begin by understanding the three main types of taxis available:
| Type | Fare Range (SAR) | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi | 600–900 | 3–4 people | Comfort & privacy |
| Shared Taxi | 200–300 per person | Shared | Budget travelers |
| App-based (Careem/Uber) | 650–950 | 3–6 people | Convenience, secure payment |
Private Taxis – Personalized Comfort at a Premium
Private taxis are often booked directly at hotels, through Umrah agents, or at official taxi stands near the Grand Mosque. Here's what you need to know:
Benefits of Private Taxis
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Exclusive use of the vehicle
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Option to stop at Ziyarat (historical sites)
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Faster journey time without detours
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More spacious and air-conditioned rides
2025 Estimated Fare Breakdown
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Standard sedan: SAR 600–700
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SUV or 6-seater: SAR 750–900
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Luxury car (Lexus, GMC): SAR 1000+
Ideal For:
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Families with luggage
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Elderly pilgrims
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Anyone preferring flexible schedules
Shared Taxis – Budget-Friendly for Solo Travelers
Shared taxis operate from known collection points like Makkah’s transport hub and mosque exits. Seats are sold per person, and taxis leave once full.
Benefits of Shared Taxis
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Inexpensive—saves 60–70% vs. private taxis
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Ideal for pilgrims traveling alone
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Cultural experience—often ride with other international travelers
Typical Shared Taxi Fare (2025)
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SAR 200–300 per person
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May vary depending on route and number of passengers
Downsides
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May have longer wait times
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Stops to pick or drop other passengers
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Language barriers can arise
Online Booking & Ride-Hailing Apps
With increasing digitalization, services like Careem, Uber, and local Saudi apps now offer intercity rides between Makkah and Madinah.
Benefits of Booking Online
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Transparent pricing
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Driver profiles and vehicle ratings
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Cashless payments (credit card, e-wallets)
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Real-time tracking
Online Booking Fare Range (2025)
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Economy sedan: SAR 650–750
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Comfort/SUV: SAR 850–1000
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Peak hours or special services: May exceed SAR 1000
Tips for Using Apps
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Book in advance during Hajj or Ramadan
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Confirm route and toll inclusion before confirming fare
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Choose highly rated drivers
What’s Included in the Fare?
Usually Included:
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Driver and vehicle for one-way trip
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Fuel and standard tolls
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Air-conditioning and standard luggage space
Sometimes Extra:
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Hotel or airport pickup (SAR 50–100)
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Special requests like extra luggage or child seat
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Long stops at restaurants or sites
Always confirm what's included in your fare before the journey begins.
Taxi Fare Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Service Type | Fare (SAR) | Booking Method | Travel Time | Stops | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi | 600–900 | Hotel, taxi stand | 4–5 hours | Flexible | Cash or card |
| Shared Taxi | 200–300 | Mosque hubs, informal | 5–6 hours | Multiple pickups | Cash only |
| Ride-Hailing App | 650–1000 | Online/app | 4.5–5.5 hours | Limited | Card or e-wallet |
Tips for Choosing the Best Option
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Traveling solo? Opt for a shared taxi or coordinate with other pilgrims to split costs.
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Family or group? A private SUV or van provides comfort and cost-sharing.
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Need predictability? Use Careem or Uber for fixed pricing and digital tracking.
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Traveling during peak season? Book early to avoid inflated fares.
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Want sightseeing? Book a private taxi that allows stops at Islamic landmarks.
Fare Negotiation & Safety Tips
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Negotiate upfront if using a local taxi; get agreement on the total fare before the journey.
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Use hotel staff as translators if language is a barrier.
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Check license plates and driver's ID to ensure it’s a registered taxi.
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Avoid random street offers unless verified by local authorities or hotels.
When to Book Your Taxi
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Early morning (before 8 AM): Beat traffic and heat
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Avoid Fridays or prayer rush: Traffic near mosques may delay departure
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Hajj or Ramadan: Pre-book at least 2–3 days in advance
FAQs
What’s the cheapest way to travel from Makkah to Madinah?
Shared taxi, costing around SAR 200–300 per seat, is the most budget-friendly option.
Can I split the cost of a private taxi with strangers?
Yes, especially if arranged through hotel groups or Umrah agents.
Is tipping the driver expected?
It’s not mandatory, but appreciated. A tip of SAR 10–20 is courteous for good service.
Do taxi fares include return trips?
Usually not. You must book and negotiate separately for the return journey.
Can I make prayer or food stops during the trip?
Yes, with private taxis. Shared or app-based rides typically stick to direct routes.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Makkah to Madinah Taxi Fare landscape empowers you to choose transport that fits your budget, comfort level, and schedule. Whether you prioritize savings or luxury, 2025 offers plenty of options—just be sure to book smart, travel safe, and enjoy the spiritual journey ahead.
