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How to Get to Madinah

How to Get to Madinah

Madinah Medina Region, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Air Connections

Domestic & International Flights

Skyscanner and Dollar Flight Club can help you find flights. Saudia, Flyadeal, Flynas offer domestic and regional flights. Global airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, The National flag carrier airline of turkey, EgyptAir, Royal Jordanian connect from major global hubs.

Direct Flights

  • Available from international cities, especially during Umrah and Hajj seasons.
  • Destinations include Cairo, Dubai, Istanbul, London, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta.
  • Seasonal flight availability.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

MED features a modern terminal with comprehensive facilities, including prayer areas, currency exchange, duty-free shops, car rental services, restaurants, and lounges. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Transfers to City

  • Taxis are readily available with regulated fares.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Careem services operate.
  • Private transfers and hotel shuttles.

Peak Seasons

Flight prices increase significantly during Ramadan and the Hajj season.

Low Season

Summer generally offers lower fares for air travel.

High Demand

Winter months also see elevated prices because of favorable weather.

Airport Services

Terminal Services

  • Prayer areas
  • Currency exchange
  • Duty-free shops
  • Restaurants

Ground Transport from Airport

  • Taxi services operate with regulated fares to the city center.
  • Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Careem) are available.
  • Pre-book private transfers or hotel shuttles.
  • Public bus services connect to central Madinah.

Land Transportation

Haramain High-Speed Railway

Connects Madinah to KAEC, Jeddah, and Mecca. High-speed, comfortable journeys. Book on the internet at sar.hhr.sa.

Long-Distance Buses

SAPTCO operates an extensive network of intercity buses. Tickets available at stations or online.

Border Crossing Info

Land borders with neighboring countries mainly serve regional travel. Tourist visas typically permit land entry.

Self-Driving in Madinah

Car Rental Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your home country driving license. The minimum age for rental is usually 21 or 23, and most companies require a credit card.

Major Companies & Booking

  • International chains like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar operate.
  • Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
  • DiscoverCars.com can help find rentals.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Roads between major cities are generally well-maintained and modern. City roads can experience congestion, especially around peak prayer times.

Regulations & Safety

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Speed regulations are applied. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.

Road Safety & Parking

Aggressive driving can be encountered on some roads. Women are permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia.

Parking

  • Parking is available at major hotels and commercial centers.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common and not recommended.

Sea/River Arrivals

Madinah is an inland city, so direct sea or river arrivals are not applicable. The nearest major seaport is Jeddah Islamic Port, approximately 400 km away.

Connections from Jeddah Port

  • Haramain High-Speed Railway
  • Bus services
  • Taxis

Departure Information

  • No specific departure taxes are usually levied separately.
  • These costs are typically included in your airfare.
  • International Flights: Arrive at MED at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic/Regional Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours in advance.
  • Online check-in is recommended where available.
  • Prepare for standard transportation security at airports procedures.

Airport & Station Facilities

MED Airport Facilities

MED Airport facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, prayer rooms, and waiting areas for your comfort before departure.

Services

  • Duty-free shops
  • Restaurants and cafes
  • Prayer rooms

Haramain Railway Station

Haramain Railway Stations offer waiting areas, cafes, prayer rooms, and luggage storage options for train travelers.

Amenities

  • Comfortable waiting areas
  • Cafes
  • Prayer rooms

Luggage Storage

Luggage storage options are available for train travelers at Haramain Railway Stations.

Timing

Plan transfers well in advance, especially during peak traffic times.

Route Planning

Consider alternative routes or travel times to avoid congestion.

Final Departure Tips

Pre-Departure Checks

Always check your flight status in advance. Have all your travel your papers prepared for inspection at the airport.

Checklist

  • Confirm flight status
  • Prepare travel documents
  • Ensure baggage meets allowances

Transfer Planning

Plan your transfer to the airport or train station well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Consider peak traffic times, especially around prayer hours.

Considerations

  • Account for peak traffic hours.
  • Avoid last-minute transfers.
  • Book transfers through reliable services.

Departure Facilities

MED Airport

Modern terminal with various amenities for departing travelers.

Haramain Railway Stations

Waiting areas, cafes, prayer rooms, and baggage storage for train travelers.

Comfort

Facilities designed to offer convenience and coziness before departure.

Final Travel Tip

Allow ample time for airport and security procedures to reduce stress. Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.