Planning an Umrah Package from US brings with it many important questions. One that often goes unasked until the last minute is this: how will I get around once I arrive in Makkah and Madinah? You’ve landed after a long-haul flight, you’re spiritually ready, but the roads, routes, and transport choices feel like a maze. That’s where this guide steps in.
This blog walks through all the travel options available within the two holy cities, making your Umrah trip smooth, simple, and stress-free. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, knowing your transport options ahead of time saves time, money, and effort.
Why Local Transport Matters During Your Umrah?
Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, you’ll notice that Umrah is not just about prayer and rituals. It’s also about moving between places, your hotel, Masjid al-Haram, Masjid an-Nabawi, Ziyarat locations, and other essentials like restaurants and pharmacies.
The cities are well-equipped, but knowing your way around makes everything easier. Especially for those booking an Umrah Package from US, where transport systems differ from what you’re used to.
Walking – Still The Best Way Near The Haram
In both cities, hotels around Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah are often within walking distance. If you’re staying nearby, that would be easy to get around.
Because the streets around the Haramain are well-maintained, pedestrian-friendly, and packed with fellow pilgrims, walking gives you that extra moment to reflect, pray, and soak in the spiritual environment.
If your Umrah Package from US includes accommodation close to the mosques, you may not even need any transport for daily prayers.
Uber And Careem – Private And Hassle-Free
These two ride-hailing apps work well in Makkah and Madinah. If you’re coming from the US, chances are you’re already familiar with Uber. Careem is its regional equivalent. Both apps are available in English and allow you to select the vehicle size, enter your destination, and pay via card or cash.
For quick trips to Ziyarat sites, local shops, or even between the two cities (if your package includes that), these apps provide comfort, safety, and convenience. A ride from the Haram to Mount Arafat costs around 25-40 SAR ($7–11 USD), depending on traffic and time of day.
This makes it a perfect choice for pilgrims who prefer private travel.
Shuttle Buses (Included In Most Packages)
Many hotels and Umrah agencies include shuttle services to and from the Haram, especially during peak times like prayer hours. These are usually air-conditioned and run on a fixed schedule.
If your Umrah Package from US includes a hotel a bit far from the mosque, check if they offer complimentary shuttles. It can save both time and money.
Also, the Saudi government arranges free shuttle buses during the Hajj and peak Umrah seasons, especially between parking zones and the Haram. Watch out for signboards in English and uniformed staff who guide pilgrims toward the boarding points.
The Haramain High-Speed Train – For City Transfers
Want to travel between Makkah and Madinah quickly? The Haramain High-Speed Train is the best option. It connects Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and King Abdulaziz International Airport.
The trip between Makkah and Madinah takes just 2 hours and 20 minutes, with clean, comfortable seating and English-speaking staff. Prices start from around 149 SAR ($40 USD) per person in economy class.
For US pilgrims used to Amtrak or airport trains, this is a major upgrade, modern, clean, and reliable. If your Umrah Package from US includes multi-city stops, ask about adding this train to your itinerary.
Public Buses – Budget-Friendly But Crowded
Public buses run throughout Makkah and Madinah, including stops at major landmarks and neighborhoods. They’re super cheap, less than 5 SAR ($1.30 USD) per ride. However, they can be crowded during peak hours, and signage may not always be in English.
Still, for budget-conscious travelers or large families, it’s an option worth considering. If your Umrah Package from US is a group trip, your guide may help coordinate local buses for short Ziyarat routes.
Taxi Services – Always Available, But Negotiate Wisely
Taxis are found easily around hotels, airports, and major mosques. Most drivers speak basic English, but it’s always smart to have your destination written down in Arabic.
There are no meters in many taxis, so always agree on a fare before you ride. For example, a short trip in Makkah can cost 10-30 SAR ($2.70–$8 USD) depending on location and time.
While not always the cheapest, taxis provide flexibility when other options are unavailable. For pilgrims on an Umrah Package from US, they’re handy for last-minute errands or early-morning trips.
Metro System In Makkah – Seasonal But Expanding
The Makkah Metro (also known as Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro) operates mainly during Hajj to manage pilgrim traffic between Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Although it doesn’t operate year-round, plans are in place to expand metro services across the city, including regular routes.
For now, this isn’t a daily transport option for Umrah travelers. However, some high-end Umrah Packages from US may include seasonal metro rides during peak pilgrimage months.
Group Coaches – Ideal For Ziyarat Tours
If your package includes Ziyarat visits, you’ll likely be traveling by air-conditioned coaches with a group. These large buses are organized, often with a guide who explains each site’s history along the way.
Sites like Jabal al-Noor, Jannat al-Baqi, and Masjid Quba are easier to visit in a group tour format. It’s also safer and more efficient.
Always confirm with your Umrah Package from US provider what type of transport is included for these spiritual tours.
A Few Smart Tips To Keep In Mind
- Always carry your hotel card with the address written in Arabic. It helps if you get lost.
- Download offline maps of Makkah and Madinah using Google Maps.
- Avoid traveling right after prayers, as the roads get packed.
- Stay hydrated while walking or waiting at stations, temperatures can reach over 100°F (38°C) in warmer months.
- Use English-friendly apps like Mawgif for parking info or Nusuk for Umrah services.
Booking The Right Package Makes It All Easier
Whether you plan to walk, ride, or hop from site to site, choosing the right travel partner makes a big difference. A smart Umrah Package from US will already include essential transfers, reliable transport options, and helpful staff to guide you.
The less time you spend figuring out how to get from point A to B, the more time you get for worship and reflection.
Final Thoughts – Make Every Step Count
You came all the way from the US to Makkah and Madinah for a purpose. Moving around smoothly isn’t just about convenience; it’s about making your pilgrimage calm, meaningful, and focused.
If you’re still unsure how to sort travel in the holy cities, trust the experts to plan it for you. Book your Umrah Package from US with Alhadi Travels today and travel worry-free, from the airport all the way to the Haram.