Jeddah to Makkah Your Complete Umrah Transport Guide
Discover the most efficient ways to travel from Jeddah Airport to Makkah for Umrah 2025. Explore options, costs, and insider tips for a smooth journey.
Start Your Umrah Right—From the Airport Onward
If you're flying into Saudi Arabia for Umrah from the UK, your spiritual journey truly begins the moment you land at King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah Airport). But between the jet lag, the new surroundings, and the sea of fellow pilgrims, the first challenge many face is figuring out how to get from Jeddah Airport to Makkah smoothly, especially when travelling with elderly parents or young children.
As a UK-based Umrah travel consultant with over a decade of experience helping families, couples, and solo pilgrims navigate this leg of their trip, I know just how crucial this step is. Whether you're booking an Umrah taxi from Jeddah, looking for family Umrah transport, or just unsure what your options are, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Let’s explore your 2025 Umrah transport options with real-life insights, local tips, and expert guidance.
Option 1 – Private Taxi Services
For most UK pilgrims, booking a private taxi or cab service from Jeddah Airport to Makkah is by far the most convenient and stress-free option.
✅ Why Choose a Private Taxi?
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Comfortable and air-conditioned vehicles – Ideal after a long flight.
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Door-to-door service – No walking around with luggage or waiting in long queues.
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Direct route to Makkah hotels or your accommodation.
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Perfect for families with the elderly or children, or those carrying extra luggage (especially Ihram essentials).
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Drivers are usually familiar with Umrah pilgrims’ needs and speak some basic English or Urdu.
💷 Estimated Costs (2025):
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Standard sedan (up to 4 passengers): SAR 250–350 (around £55–£75)
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7-seater for families: SAR 400–500 (£90–£110)
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Luxury or VIP vehicles: SAR 600+ (£130+)
Note: These rates can vary during peak Umrah months like Ramadan, December holidays, or school breaks in the UK.
🧑💼 Real-life tip from one of our clients, Brother Farhan from Birmingham:
“Travelling with my elderly mum, a private taxi was a lifesaver. We were met at the arrivals gate, helped with luggage, and reached our Makkah hotel without a single worry.”
🔒 Booking Tips:
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Pre-book from a trusted UK-based provider to avoid price scams at the airport.
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Confirm the driver’s Iqama (residency permit) and vehicle license.
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Make sure the taxi is authorized to enter Makkah (only Muslims are allowed, and cars must be registered accordingly).
📞 Book your private Umrah cab now for a hassle-free journey.
Option 2 – Public Transport
For budget-conscious pilgrims or adventurous solo travellers, public transport can be a viable route from Jeddah to Makkah, but it comes with a few caveats.
🚍 Bus Services:
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SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) operates buses between Jeddah and Makkah.
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Fares: ~SAR 20–30 (£5–£7)
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Duration: ~1.5–2 hours (can be longer during peak hours)
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Depart from the SAPTCO terminal near the airport, not directly from arrivals.
🚄 Haramain High-Speed Train:
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Modern, fast, and air-conditioned.
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Route: Jeddah Airport Station → Makkah Station (about 35 minutes)
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Ticket cost: SAR 65–85 (£14–£18)
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Book via the Haramain Railway app or website.
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You’ll still need a taxi from Makkah station to your hotel.
⚖️ Pros and Cons:
Pros:
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Cost-effective
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Environmentally friendly
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Great for tech-savvy or experienced travellers
Cons:
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Multiple transfers involved
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Language barrier for first-time UK travellers
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Not ideal for families with children or elderly pilgrims
Option 3 – Group Transfers
Travelling in a group for Umrah? Perhaps with your local mosque, family, or a UK tour package? Group transport might already be included, or can be arranged.
🧳 What to Expect:
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Shared coaches or minibuses from the airport
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Designated pickup zones and waiting times
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Often coordinated by UK-based agents in advance
👪 Best For:
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Large families
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Masjid-organised Umrah groups
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Students or youth groups from the UK
📝 Tips:
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Confirm if group transport is included in your package before arrival.
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Ask for the vehicle size—you don’t want to be cramped after a long flight.
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Ensure it’s licensed for pilgrim transfers into Makkah.
🤝 Let us handle your journey while you focus on ibadah.
Tips for a Smooth Journey from Jeddah to Makkah
Whether you choose private, public, or group transport, here are key things to keep in mind:
📅 Best Time to Travel
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Avoid rush hours (7–10 AM and 4–7 PM local time).
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Travelling late at night or early morning is usually smoother and cooler.
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Fridays (Jumu’ah) often see heavier traffic around Makkah, especially after midday prayers.
🎫 Driver & Vehicle Checks
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Always check your driver’s official ID and transport license.
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Look for signs that the vehicle is registered for Umrah transport.
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Do not accept rides from random individuals at the airport, even if they speak your language.
📱 Language and Communication
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Download Google Translate or a basic Arabic phrase app.
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Most licensed drivers understand common Umrah-related words like “Ihram,” “Tawaf,” “Zamzam,” etc.
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Carry a written address in Arabic for your hotel.
Special Tip for UK Families:
Pack a small Umrah essentials bag (wet wipes, light snacks, prayer mat, extra Ihram belt) for the ride. Especially useful when travelling with kids or elderly relatives.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Ride for Your Sacred Journey
Your spiritual journey to Makkah begins the moment your feet touch Saudi soil. And the first impression matters—especially when you’ve flown from the UK.
Whether you want the simplicity of a private Umrah taxi, the economy of public transport, or the coordination of a group transfer, it’s essential to plan and know your options.
💡 From Luton to Lahore, Sheffield to Sharjah—UK pilgrims trust us to guide their Umrah journeys, every step of the way.
📲 Ensure a comfortable start to your Umrah. Book your transport with us today.
FAQs: Jeddah to Makkah Transport for UK Pilgrims
Q: How long does it take to reach Makkah from Jeddah Airport?
A: By private taxi, around 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Q: Can I travel in Ihram from the airport?
A: Yes, many UK pilgrims don their Ihram on the plane before crossing the Miqat (you’ll hear announcements before landing).
Q: Is Uber available in Jeddah?
A: Yes, but availability can be limited at peak times. It’s not always the best option for families or those unfamiliar with the region.
Q: What if my flight is delayed?
A: Reputable Umrah cab services monitor flight arrivals and adjust pickup accordingly.
Ready to Begin?
✔️ Visit our Booking Page to reserve your transport now
✔️ Contact us directly if you need custom arrangements for family Umrah transport
🕋 Your sacred journey deserves peace of mind—let us help you start strong, from Jeddah to Makkah.
