How to Use Haramain High-Speed Railway for Pilgrims

The Haramain High-Speed Railway is the fastest train in the Middle East, operating in Saudi Arabia on a 450-kilometre (280-mile) high-speed rail line. Also known as the Haramain Train, it offers a fast and comfortable travel experience to pilgrims and general travellers.

The Haramain High-Speed Railway in Saudi Arabia connects the two holy cities, Makkah and Madinah and also serves Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City. For pilgrims, the Haramain train is a modern, fast and reliable transport option that eases their journey, especially for those arriving through Jeddah.

Whether you are on your first Hajj or a seasoned pilgrim returning for Umrah, this practical guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the HHR train, how to use Haramain High-Speed Railway, ticket price, timing and more.

​Why Choose the Haramain High-Speed Railway?

The Haramain train was launched on October 11, 2018, to support the increasing number of pilgrims. The superfast train helps reduce the travel time between Makkah and Madinah to just 2.5 hours, a significant advantage over road transport, especially during peak seasons.

The Haramain High-Speed Railway train is a reliable transport option due to its comfort, speed and safety features. The Haramain train offers modern amenities, including spacious seating, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options, all of which make the journey enjoyable.

The HHR Train connects the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah with key stops at:

• Jeddah Airport (King Abdulaziz International Airport - KAIA Terminal 1)
• Jeddah Central Station (Sulaymaniyah)
• King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Haramain High-Speed Railway for Pilgrims

1. Booking Your Ticket

You can book the ticket for the HHR train via:

• Official Website: https://www.hhr.sa
• Mobile App: Haramain High-Speed Railway App (available on Android/iOS)
• Station Counters: Limited availability, especially during peak seasons
• E-tickets are widely used, no need to print tickets as mobile QR codes are accepted at stations.

Tip: Book your tickets early, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan, Hajj or Holidays.

2. Choose Your Station

For pilgrims arriving from the UK or other international destinations, :

• Jeddah Airport Station (KAIA Terminal 1) is the most convenient station to begin your journey if you land at King Abdulaziz International Airport.

If you’re already in Jeddah:

• Use Jeddah Central Station (Sulaymaniyah), which has more frequent services.

If starting your journey from Makkah:

• Makkah Station (Rusaifah District) is the main terminal for departures and arrivals. Located a short drive from Masjid Al-Haram, you can reach the station easily via taxis and shuttle services.

Pilgrims starting their journey from Madinah:

• Madinah Station (Knowledge Economic City) is about 15–20 minutes from Masjid an-Nabawi. The HHR train offers smooth onward travel to Jeddah or Makkah, especially during peak seasons like Hajj or Ramadan.

3. Class Options

Like flight, the Haramain High-Speed Railway Train does have economy and business classes. Here's what both classes offer;

• Economy Class: Affordable, comfortable, clean seating with onboard facilities
• Business Class: More spacious, quieter, includes snacks and drinks

Both classes offer comfort and are suitable for pilgrims, but business class offers greater comfort and relaxation. Pilgrims with big luggage or elderly companions should go with business class.

4. Travel Duration and Frequency

The Haramain High-Speed Railway operates daily with frequent departures, typically from early morning until late at night. Timings vary based on season and demand.

The first train departs around 4:30 AM from Makkah, and the last train departs at 11:55 pm. The timing also varies by day, with additional services on Friday and holidays.

Here's a quick breakdown of the time duration;

• Makkah ↔ Madinah: ~2 to 2.5 hours
• Jeddah ↔ Makkah: ~30–50 minutes
• Jeddah ↔ Madinah: ~1.5–2 hours

Using the Haramain High-Speed Railway Train is easy, and it runs multiple times daily, so check for live schedules and availability on the App or website.

5. Luggage Policy

• Passengers are only allowed one large suitcase and one small carry-on.
• Oversized luggage or Zamzam water containers are usually not allowed; for that, you need to book courier services or choose a different transport option.

6. The Onboarding Experience

• Clean prayer facilities at major stations
• Efficient check-in, Comfortable seating and air conditioning
• Digital displays for Qiblah direction and prayer times (in newer coaches)
• Snacks, refreshments and entertainment options (especially in business class)

Why Pilgrims Prefer Using The Haramain High-Speed Railway

Pilgrims prefer the HHR train due to its extreme comfort, speed and efficiency in travelling from Jeddah or Madinah to Makkah. With modern amenities and an excellent onboard experience, the train makes it easier for pilgrims to fully focus on the rituals of Hajj and Umrah.

Now you are well aware on how to use the Haramain High-Speed Railway, let’s now discuss why pilgrims prefer using it instead of private transfers:

• Faster travel between holy sites with no traffic delays
• A safe and clean environment is especially beneficial for families and the elderly
• Easy access from major locations like the airport and city centres
• Reduces the stress of negotiating with taxi drivers or finding a reliable transport option in a foreign country.
• Secure and reliable travel experience because of safety, surveillance systems, security checks and trained staff

Additional Helpful Tips for Pilgrims

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early before your train departure to allow for security and boarding
• Carry your passport and visa documents for verification
• Use the KAIA station directly if your flight lands in Terminal 1 of Jeddah Airport

If travelling in a group, coordinate to book seats in the same coach for convenience.

Final Wordings: A Modern Solution for a Sacred Journey

The Haramain High-Speed Railway is more than just a mode of transport; it's a reflection of Saudi Arabia's commitment to ease and enhance the pilgrimage experience through modern infrastructure, facilities and convenience.

The Haramain train offers a comfortable travel journey with significantly shorter journey times compared to road transport. Pilgrims prefer the HHR train due to its speed, comfort, Wifi, entertainment and other modern facilities. Booking tickets for the Haramain High-Speed Railway is simple via the official app or website.

At Itimaar, a reliable travel agency in the UK, we guide pilgrims every step of the way, from booking affordable flights and accommodations to helping you use the Haramain High-Speed Railway Train. If you're planning your next Hajj or Umrah journey, let us help make it seamless, stress-free, and spiritually rewarding.