Latest news with #Haramain
Time Business News
15-07-2025
- Time Business News
Safe, Comfortable & Affordable
Traveling between Makkah and Medina is more than just moving from one city to another — it's a sacred experience. Whether you're performing Umrah or simply visiting the holy cities, the taxi journey from Makkah to Medina offers flexibility, comfort, and the freedom to travel on your own time. In this complete guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about booking and enjoying a Makkah to Medina taxi. The Importance of a Comfortable Journey Between Two Holy CitiesSpiritual and Emotional Aspects of the Journey The trip from Makkah to Medina is filled with spiritual reflection. Many pilgrims use this time to recite Quran, make dua, or reflect on their experience. Avoiding Stress and Fatigue A comfortable taxi ride helps you avoid crowded buses or strict train schedules. This is especially important for families, the elderly, and those traveling with children. Distance and Route OverviewTotal Kilometers Between Makkah and Medina The distance is approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles). Travel Time by Taxi Most taxi rides take between 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops. Popular Highway Route Taken Taxis usually take Route 15, a well-maintained expressway that connects both cities. Why Choose a Taxi Over Other Modes of Transport?Compared to Buses Buses are cheaper but less flexible. They make multiple stops and often have longer travel times. Compared to Trains The Haramain High-Speed Train is fast but requires fixed booking times and early check-ins. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience. Compared to Private Rental Cars With taxis, you don't have to worry about driving, navigation, or Saudi traffic rules. You can relax and focus on your journey. Types of Taxi Services AvailablePrivate Taxis For individuals or families who want privacy and direct travel with no sharing. Shared Taxis Ideal for solo travelers looking to reduce cost by splitting with others. Luxury or VIP Transfers High-end sedans or SUVs with added comfort, professional drivers, and refreshments. Group and Family Cabs Vans or minibuses suited for large families or travel groups. Booking Your Makkah to Medina TaxiOnline Platforms Many services now allow booking via website or mobile apps, often with language support and payment options. Local Booking Agents You'll find these near major hotels or in Makkah's transportation hubs. Hotel Concierge and Front Desk Assistance Most hotels can arrange a reliable and trustworthy cab for you. Average Cost of a Taxi from Makkah to MedinaStandard Fare Range Private taxi: SAR 450 – SAR 700 Luxury taxi or VIP van: SAR 800 – SAR 1,200 Shared taxi: Around SAR 150 – SAR 250 per person Pricing Based on Vehicle Type and Group Size Larger vehicles cost more, but per-person price decreases with group travel. Extra Costs to Look Out For Toll charges (usually included) Extra luggage Stops or detours for Ziyarah What to Expect During the JourneyCheckpoints and Rest Areas There are a few security checkpoints where your ID or visa may be checked. Drivers usually stop once or twice for breaks. Food and Prayer Stops Common stops include restaurants, masjids, and clean restrooms along the highway. Safety and Comfort Features Air-conditioned cars, seat belts, and occasionally Wi-Fi or charging ports are available. Recommended Time to TravelBest Hours of the Day Travel early in the morning (before Fajr) or after Isha to avoid heat and traffic. Weather Considerations Summers in Saudi Arabia are hot. Traveling during cooler hours is always better. Choosing the Right Taxi CompanyWhat to Look For Licensed service Clear pricing Responsive communication Reviews and Reputation Always check Google reviews, travel forums, or ask hotel staff for recommendations. Customer Service and Support 24/7 support is a good sign of professionalism. Safety Tips for PilgrimsConfirm Identity of the Driver Ask for ID or booking confirmation when the cab arrives. Keep Valuables Secure Don't leave passports or money in the trunk. Share Travel Details with Loved Ones Send your live location via WhatsApp or keep someone informed. Real Pilgrim TestimonialsPositive Experiences 'We traveled in a clean van with a friendly driver who even played Quran recitations.' Lessons Learned 'One time, I didn't confirm the price and had to pay more at the end — always confirm!' Helpful Advice 'Pack snacks and a small prayer mat for rest stops.' Traveling With Families or GroupsFinding the Right Size Vehicle Request a van or SUV when booking if you're more than four people. Making the Ride More Enjoyable Download kids' entertainment, prepare snacks, and carry water. Kid-Friendly Tips Ask for a driver who can stop when needed and has space for child car seats. Comparison: Taxi vs Haramain TrainFeature Taxi Haramain TrainTravel Time 4.5 – 6 hrs 2.5 hrsFlexibility High Low (fixed schedule)Comfort Private, personal Shared, limited movementCost (avg) SAR 500+ SAR 150–250 (economy) Pickup/Dropoff Door-to-door Requires own transport Conclusion Booking a Makkah to Medina taxi is one of the best ways to travel comfortably between Islam's two holiest cities. Whether you're with family, in a group, or going solo, the flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind are unmatched. Plan ahead, book a reliable taxi, and enjoy every spiritual mile of your journey. FAQs How long is the taxi ride from Makkah to Medina? Usually between 4.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops. Can I book a round-trip taxi? Yes, most services offer round-trip packages with a discount. Are English-speaking drivers available? Yes, especially with Umrah cab services and VIP transfers. Is it safe to travel at night? Yes, the highway is well-lit and monitored, but always use licensed drivers. Can I request a stop at a Ziyarah site on the way? Absolutely! Just mention it while booking, though there may be an extra charge. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Zawya
01-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Retal to set up real estate fund to build $160mln residential tower in Makkah
Retal Urban Development Company will establish a closed real estate fund to develop a Residential tower within Masar destination in Makkah at the cost of 600 million Saudi riyals ($160 million). The developer has signed a memorandum of understanding with Watheeq Capital to establish the fund, Retal said in a statement to the Saudi stock exchange on Tuesday. The tower will have 28 floors, housing nearly 200 units. Masar development is situated 2.5 km from the Holy Mosque and near the Haramain high-speed rail station in Makkah. The MoU has a duration of 60 days and can be extended mutually. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the company's results from 2026 to 2029, the statement said. Earlier on Tuesday, Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Company signed a non-binding tripartite memorandum of understanding to set up a SAR1.4 billion ($373.29 million) real estate private fund for developing hospitality, residential, and commercial units on two land plots within the Masar destination. (Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Gulf Insider
08-06-2025
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Welcomed Pilgrims On 7,000 Flights From 238 Cities
As the annual Hajj pilgrimage draws to a close, Saudi Arabia has revealed that more than 7,000 flights from 238 cities worldwide brought pilgrims to the Kingdom this year, in what is being described as one of the most integrated and technologically advanced Hajj operations to date. Speaking at the annual reception for distinguished Hajj guests hosted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al Rabiah emphasized the unprecedented levels of coordination and efficiency that marked the 2025 pilgrimage. Dr. Al Rabiah announced the enhancement of the Nusuk app, which now provides more than 130 digital services to pilgrims from visa facilitation to guidance for every stage of the journey, including their safe return home. The Minister also cited the expansion of shaded areas to more than 300,000 square meters, including 170,000 square meters along pilgrim routes and the planting of 23,000 trees to improve comfort and reduce heat exposure at key sites. Saudi authorities boosted the electric grid's capacity at the holy sites by 95 percent, a project costing over 3 billion riyals, and distributed more than 7 million cubic meters of water across Mecca and the pilgrimage sites. Transportation saw similar upgrades: over 4,700 Haramain train journeys, 2,500 trips on the Mashaer Metro, and a fleet of more than 20,000 buses moved crowds efficiently between sacred locations. Healthcare capacity also reached new heights, with a more than 60 percent increase in hospital beds, the opening of a new emergency hospital, and the deployment of 71 rapid-response medical points throughout the holy sites.
Zawya
04-06-2025
- General
- Zawya
Saudi: 62 air carriers operate 3,314 Haj flights from 238 destinations
MAKKAH - Saleh Al-Zuwaid, spokesman for the Hajj Transport and Logistics System, said that a total of 62 air carriers operated as many as 3,314 Hajj flights carrying pilgrims from 238 destinations in 71 countries around the world. Addressing a press conference for Hajj season transportation and communications system spokespersons at Hajj Media Operations Center in Makkah on Monday, Al-Zuwaid noted that the reception of pilgrims was conducted with the highest level of operational efficiency, contributing to the smooth flow of pilgrims' arrival and movement. Regarding the Haramain High Speed Rail, Al-Zuwaid stated that 4,700 trips were scheduled throughout the season with a capacity of up to two million passengers, an increase of 400,000 seats over last year. The number of trips between King Abdulaziz International Airport Station and Makkah has also been increased by 75percent compared to last year, reaching an average of approximately one trip per hour. He noted that 700,000 passengers had been transported on the Haramain High Speed Rail by Sunday, stressing that it will continue to provide services to pilgrims to meet their expectations. Regarding the Mashaer Train, the spokesperson confirmed that more than 2000 trips are expected to operate this season to transport more than 2 million passengers in 7 days. Al-Zuwaid explained that the use of road cooling technology in the holy sites has expanded by 82 percent compared to last year. "This technology has proven effective in reducing road surface temperatures by 12 degrees Celsius, especially in areas surrounding the Namirah Mosque and the holy sites," he added. For his part, Saad Al-Shanbari, spokesperson for the Hajj Communications and Technology System, stated that 4G and 5G coverage in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites reached 99 percent, resulting in a significant increase in internet speed, reaching 264 megabits per second, a 10 percent increase over last year. "Internet speed in Makkah and Madinah alone this year reached 336 megabits per second, a 19 percent increase over last year," he said. Al-Shanbari noted that Wi-Fi access points in Makkah, the holy sites, and Madinah reached more than 10,000 during this year's Hajj, in partnership with telecommunications service providers. He also emphasized that the Communications and Space Technology Commission (CSTC) was able to utilize the latest innovations during this season, successfully implementing, in partnership with Aramco, an artificial intelligence (AI) crowd management experiment using HAI surveillance cameras.
Arabian Business
27-05-2025
- General
- Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia announces Eid Al Adha 2025
Saudi Arabia has announced dates for the upcoming Eid Al Adha 2025 holiday. An official statement confirmed that the crescent moon to mark the new month of Dhul-Hijjah had been seen in the Kingdom and confirmed a start-date for the Eid holiday, After the moon was sighted in the Tamir region of Saudi Arabia it means that Eid Al Adha will begin on Friday, June 6. Saudi Arabia Eid Al Adha 2024 A statement on the news agency SPA said: 'The Supreme Court has announced that Wednesday, Dhul-Hijjah 11446 AH, corresponding to May 28, 2025, according to the Umm Al-Qura calendar, marks the beginning of the month of Dhul-Hijjah. 'The court confirmed that standing at Arafat will take place on Thursday, Dhul-Hijjah 9 (June 5), and that Eid Al-Adha will be observed on the following Friday'. BREAKING NEWS: The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia — Dhul Hijjah 1446 begins tonight. *Day of 'Arafah: 5 June 2025* *Eid Al-Adha: 6 June 2025* May Allāh accept the Hajj of the Hujjaj and our worship and allow us to make the most of these blessed days. Aameen. — 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 (@HaramainInfo) May 27, 2025
