The Haramain High-Speed Railway has transformed how residents and visitors move between the western region's key cities. Whether you are commuting for work, heading to the holy cities, or catching a flight from the airport, the train offers a fast, comfortable, and reliable alternative to driving. In this Saudi Living guide, we walk you through the routes, fares, booking process, and the practical rules you need to know before you travel.

Routes Covered

The network links the most important destinations in the western region, connecting pilgrims, commuters, and travelers through a single modern system. Available routes include:

  • Makkah – Madinah
  • Makkah – Jeddah
  • Makkah – Jeddah Airport
  • Makkah – King Abdullah Economic City
  • Jeddah – Madinah
  • Jeddah – Jeddah Airport
  • King Abdullah Economic City – Madinah

Indicative Fares

Fares vary by class (Economy or Business) and can change based on travel date, train occupancy, applicable fees, and booking conditions. The figures below are one-way adult indicative prices to help you plan:

  • Makkah – Madinah: Economy SAR 162 · Business SAR 455
  • Makkah – Jeddah: Economy SAR 43 · Business SAR 90
  • Makkah – Jeddah Airport: Economy SAR 65 · Business SAR 101.40
  • Jeddah – Madinah: Economy SAR 135 · Business SAR 375
  • Makkah – King Abdullah Economic City: Economy SAR 92 · Business SAR 195
  • Jeddah Airport – Madinah: Economy SAR 130 · Business SAR 365
  • Jeddah – Jeddah Airport: Economy SAR 22 · Business SAR 40
  • King Abdullah Economic City – Madinah: Economy SAR 108 · Business SAR 270

Depending on the fare displayed, applicable VAT or fees may be included in the price or shown separately. Always review the final total before paying.

How to Book

You can reserve your seat through several official channels:

  • The official Haramain booking portal
  • The official Saudi Railway website and app
  • Nusuk
  • Station ticket counters
  • Station self-service machines

The booking flow is straightforward:

  • Choose one-way or return, then select your departure and arrival stations and travel date.
  • Add passenger types and pick your preferred train and seats.
  • Enter each passenger's name and their national ID, Iqama, or passport details.
  • Complete electronic payment and keep the e-ticket sent to you by email or SMS.

Ticket Rules and Travel Documents

Tickets on the Haramain railway are fully reserved and personal. A ticket is non-transferable and valid only for the named passenger, on the specified date, train, route, class, and seat. Keep these points in mind:

  • Carry your e-ticket along with the same valid national ID, Iqama, or passport you used when booking.
  • A ticket is valid for the booked journey only — there is no open-date or open-travel option.
  • If you do not show up before departure, the ticket becomes invalid and the ticket price is not refunded.

Traveling with Children

Families planning to travel together should note the following rules:

  • Passengers under 12 must be accompanied by an adult and require their own ticket.
  • Children under 2 may travel without an assigned seat while sharing the accompanying adult's seat, subject to the standard ticket requirements.

Station Deadlines and Boarding

Because the trains run on a tight schedule, arriving early is essential. Keep these cut-off times in mind:

  • Ticket offices close 20 minutes before departure.
  • Boarding gates close 10 minutes before departure.

Plan to reach the station with enough time to pass through the gates comfortably, especially during peak pilgrimage and holiday seasons when stations are busier.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

  • Book ahead during busy periods, as popular trains fill quickly and fares can rise with demand.
  • Double-check passenger details before paying — names and ID numbers must match your travel documents exactly.
  • Save your e-ticket offline in case the station's signal is weak.
  • For the latest fares, schedules, and conditions, always confirm through the official booking channels before you travel.

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Haramain High-Speed Railway: Intercity Travel Guide | Saudi Living