Introduction
Landing at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) and heading to Madinah? You have two main options: the Haramain High-Speed Train or a bus. Both are popular with Umrah pilgrims, tourists, and locals. But which one is better in 2025?
In this guide, we’ll compare train vs bus from Jeddah to Madinah in terms of:
- Travel time
- Ticket prices
- Comfort & convenience
- Booking methods
- Pros and cons
Option 1: Haramain High-Speed Train from Jeddah Airport to Madinah
The Haramain Train is a modern high-speed rail service linking Jeddah Airport (KAIA Station) directly to Madinah Station.
Travel Time:
- Approx. 1 hour 55 minutes
- Fastest public transport option available
Ticket Price (2025):
- Economy Class: From SAR 100 – SAR 130
- Business Class: From SAR 200 – SAR 250
Booking Options:
- Online at HaramainRailway.com
- At station kiosks or counters
- Mobile apps (Apple Pay, Visa, Mada accepted)
Comfort & Amenities:
- Air-conditioned, spacious seats
- Business class offers food & extra legroom
- Onboard toilets and Wi-Fi
- Luggage space and family sections
Departure Point:
- KAIA Haramain Station (linked to Jeddah Airport Terminal 1 by shuttle)
Arrival Point:
- Madinah Haramain Station – 10-15 mins from the Prophet’s Mosque by taxi
Pros:
- Fastest and most comfortable
- Perfect for international travelers
- Fixed schedule, punctual
- Excellent for Umrah travelers seeking a quick transfer
Cons:
- Slightly higher price than bus
- Needs pre-booking during peak Umrah seasons
Option 2: Intercity Bus from Jeddah to Madinah
Several private and government-backed bus services operate between Jeddah and Madinah.
Travel Time:
- 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic
Ticket Price (2025):
- From SAR 60 to SAR 90 per seat
- Some premium services may charge SAR 100+
Booking Options:
Comfort & Amenities:
- Basic buses may lack A/C or toilets
- Premium buses offer reclining seats, A/C, screens
- Fewer onboard services compared to train
Departure Point:
- From Al-Balad or SAPTCO station (30+ mins from airport by taxi)
Arrival Point:
- Madinah main bus station or drop-off point near central hotels
Pros:
- Cheaper option for budget travelers
- More frequent departures
- Better if you arrive at Terminal North (train station is farther)
Cons:
- Much slower than the train
- Not directly connected to airport terminals
- May not be ideal for families or seniors
- Unreliable schedules in some cases
Train vs Bus: Final Verdict
| Criteria | Haramain Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | ✅ 1h 55m | ❌ 4–6h |
| Comfort | ✅ High | ❌ Varies |
| Price | ❌ SAR 100–250 | ✅ SAR 60–90 |
| Booking Ease | ✅ Easy online | ❌ Sometimes confusing |
| Airport Access | ✅ Direct via KAIA Station | ❌ Taxi required |
| Reliability | ✅ Punctual | ❌ Depends on traffic |
If you’re visiting for Umrah, traveling with family, or want to arrive quickly and comfortably — the Haramain Train is the clear winner.
If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind longer travel times, a bus may suffice.