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Getting Around Madinah

Getting Around Madinah

Madinah Medina Region, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Madinah operates a local public bus network, known as Madinah Bus. The network continues to expand, connecting various parts of the city.

Madinah does not currently have a metro or tram system.

Madinah Bus Overview

  • Routes connect Haram area, shopping malls, residential districts.
  • Route maps available online or at bus stops.
  • Rechargeable smart cards for payment, single journey tickets available.
  • Operates early morning to late evening, every 15-30 minutes on main routes.

Accessibility

Newer buses are designed with ramps for wheelchairs, making travel easier.

Central Hub

The area around Al-Masjid an-Nabawi serves as a central point for many bus routes.

Efficient Navigation

Use online maps or local bus apps for route planning. Fares are low.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis
  • Look for white taxis with a "TAXI" sign.
  • Agree upon the fare or ensure the driver uses the meter.
  • Ensure the taxi is licensed; cash is a common payment.
Ride-Sharing Apps
  • Careem and Uber are widely used.
  • Fixed pricing and cashless payment options.
  • Safety features (driver/vehicle details, tracking).

Taxi & Ride-Share Details

Typical Fares

Short trip: SAR 20-50

Payment

Cash is common; card payment not always available.

Airport Arrangements

Designated queues at MED airport and Haramain station.

Safety

Ride-sharing apps offer higher transparency.

Rental Options

Consider renting a car if you plan to explore beyond the city center. Motorcycle/scooter and bicycle rentals are not widely available or recommended for tourists.

Car Rental Requirements

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with home license.
  • Minimum age usually 21-23.
  • Credit card required by most companies.
  • International chains (Avis, Budget, Hertz) operate.

Driving Laws & Conditions

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Speed limits enforced; seatbelts mandatory.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.
  • Women are permitted to drive.

Road Conditions & Parking

  • Main roads are well-maintained.
  • City traffic can be heavy, especially around prayer times.
  • Aggressive driving can be encountered.
  • Parking is you can get it at major hotels and commercial centers.
  • Bicycle sharing/rentals not widely available.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland City

Madinah is a landlocked city; no direct sea or river arrivals.

Nearest Seaport

Jeddah Islamic Port, approximately 400 km away.

Connections

From Jeddah, use Haramain Railway, bus, or taxi to Madinah.

Walking & Cycling

The area immediately surrounding Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is highly pedestrian-friendly, featuring wide walkways.

Pedestrian Areas

  • Area around Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is pedestrian-friendly.
  • Other city areas are less pedestrian-oriented due to wider roads and hot climate.
  • Many visitors walk between main mosques (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Quba Mosque, Qiblatain Mosque).
  • Tour operators often offer guided walking tours.

Cycling Limitations & Safety

  • Dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited.
  • Cycling is not a common mode of transport for tourists.
  • No specific no-go areas for pedestrians, but high-traffic roads are unsuitable.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Some travel agencies offer guided bus tours to historical sites.

Hop-on-hop-off services are not standard.

Water Transport

Not applicable; Madinah is a city not on the coast.

No boat taxis or water transportation.

Unique Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport options available.

Standard transport options prevail.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport
  • Newer public buses designed with accessibility in mind.
  • Haramain High-Speed Railway also designed for accessibility.
  • Ramps and elevators available in major hotels and more recent attractions.
Older Sites
  • Older historical sites may have limited accessibility.
  • Inquire in advance about specific site accessibility.
  • Travelers with mobility needs can plan accordingly.

Road Safety & Enforcement

  • Aggressive road behavior can be encountered on some roads.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is banned.
  • Speed limits are actively enforced.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • City roads experience congestion, especially around prayer times.
  • Consider traffic conditions when planning journeys.
  • Prioritize safe driving practices.
  • Women are permitted to drive in The Kingdom of saudi arabia.

Navigating Madinah

For short distances, ride-sharing apps (Careem, Uber) are efficient.

For intercity travel, the Haramain High-Speed Railway is a fast and comfortable option.

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