Makkah is the heart of Islam and one of the most sacred destinations in the world. Every year, millions of Muslims visit this holy city to perform Umrah and Hajj, seeking spiritual fulfillment and closeness to Allah. But beyond its sacred rituals, Makkah is also filled with incredible historical and spiritual sites that remind visitors of the deep roots of Islam.
If you are planning a journey from Madinah to Makkah, knowing the distance from Madinah to Makkah, along with the best places to visit in Makkah, will help you plan your trip more effectively. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Makkah’s most sacred spots, the travel routes, and how Umrah Taxi can make your journey smooth and comfortable.
🕋 Distance from Madinah to Makkah
The distance from Madinah to Makkah is approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles). The journey usually takes between 4 to 5 hours by road, depending on the route and traffic.
Main Routes from Madinah to Makkah:
- Al-Hijrah Highway (Route 15):
- This is the fastest and most popular route used by pilgrims.
- It connects directly from Madinah to Makkah.
- The highway is smooth and well-maintained, with rest stops and food outlets.
- Route 5 and Route 40:
- Slightly longer, but it offers scenic desert and mountain views.
- Ideal for those who want a peaceful, scenic drive.
Travel Time by Different Modes:
- Private Taxi (Umrah Taxi): 4 – 5 hours
- Bus: 6 – 7 hours (depending on stops)
- Haramain High-Speed Train: Around 2 hours 30 minutes
For most pilgrims, traveling by Umrah Taxi is the most comfortable and stress-free option. You can travel directly from your hotel in Madinah to your accommodation in Makkah without delays or transfers.
🚖 Umrah Taxi – The Best Way to Travel from Madinah to Makkah
Umrah Taxi offers reliable, safe, and comfortable transport for pilgrims across Saudi Arabia. Whether you are traveling for Umrah, Ziyarat, or simply exploring, their professional drivers and clean, air-conditioned vehicles ensure a peaceful journey.
Why Choose Umrah Taxi:
- 24/7 service availability
- Professional, English and Urdu-speaking drivers
- Affordable fixed fares with no hidden charges
- Vehicles suitable for families, groups, and individuals
- Convenient pickup from Madinah hotels or airport
- Direct drop-off at your Makkah hotel or Masjid al-Haram
With Umrah Taxi, you can focus on your prayers and spiritual journey while they handle the travel logistics.
🌆 Top Places to Visit in Makkah
After arriving in Makkah, you’ll find many sacred and historical places worth visiting. These sites not only deepen your faith but also connect you to the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the early days of Islam.
Here are the top 10 places to visit in Makkah during your Umrah trip:
1. Masjid al-Haram (The Grand Mosque)
The holiest mosque in the world and the heart of Islam, Masjid al-Haram is where millions of Muslims gather every year for Umrah and Hajj. The Kaaba, located in its center, is the Qibla (direction of prayer) for all Muslims worldwide.
Key Highlights:
- Kaaba: The sacred cube structure covered with the black Kiswah cloth.
- Maqam Ibrahim: The stone where Prophet Ibrahim عليه السلام stood while building the Kaaba.
- Zamzam Well: A miraculous water source that continues to flow for thousands of years.
- Safa and Marwah: Hills where pilgrims perform Sa’i in remembrance of Hajar’s devotion.
Performing Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) here is the most spiritual experience for every Muslim.
2. Jabal al-Noor (Mountain of Light)
Located 6 km from Masjid al-Haram, Jabal al-Noor houses the Cave of Hira, where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received the first revelation of the Qur’an from Angel Jibreel عليه السلام.
Tips:
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid heat.
- The climb takes about 30–45 minutes, but the view from the top is breathtaking.
3. Jabal Thawr (Mount Thawr)
This mountain holds the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه hid for three days during the migration (Hijrah) to Madinah.
Location: 12 km south of Makkah
Significance: A powerful symbol of patience, trust, and divine protection.
4. Mina Valley
Known as the “City of Tents,” Mina is located 8 km east of Makkah. It’s a key location during Hajj, where pilgrims perform the Stoning of the Devil (Rami al-Jamarat) ritual.
Highlights:
- Jamarat Bridge – where pebbles are thrown at symbolic pillars.
- Masjid al-Khayf – a mosque where the Prophet ﷺ and many companions prayed.
5. Mount Arafat (Jabal al-Rahmah)
One of the most sacred sites in Islam, Mount Arafat (the Mountain of Mercy) is where the Prophet ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon (Khutbat al-Wada) during his last Hajj.
Location: 20 km southeast of Makkah
Must-Visit Spot: The white pillar on top of the hill marks the exact site of the sermon.
Pilgrims visit Arafat to pray and seek forgiveness even outside the Hajj season.
6. Muzdalifah
Located between Mina and Arafat, Muzdalifah is where pilgrims collect pebbles for the stoning ritual. It’s a serene plain where pilgrims spend the night under the open sky after leaving Arafat.
It’s also a peaceful place to reflect and pray.
7. Masjid Aisha (Masjid at-Tan’eem)
Situated 7.5 km from Masjid al-Haram, Masjid Aisha is one of the Miqat points where pilgrims can enter Ihram to perform another Umrah.
Tip: Many pilgrims take a short Umrah Taxi ride to and from this mosque for renewing Ihram.
8. Jannat al-Mu’alla (Cemetery of Makkah)
Jannat al-Mu’alla is one of the oldest Islamic cemeteries and the resting place of many relatives of the Prophet ﷺ, including his beloved wife Khadijah رضي الله عنها and grandfather Abdul Muttalib.
Visiting Hours: Usually open after Fajr prayer until mid-morning.
9. Hudaibiyah
Located 24 km from Makkah, Hudaibiyah is the site where the Treaty of Hudaibiyah was signed between the Muslims and Quraysh. It’s also a Miqat for pilgrims arriving from Jeddah.
Why Visit:
- Reflect on an important event of Islamic history.
- Visit Masjid al-Shumaisi, built at the site of the treaty.
10. Makkah Museum (Al-Zahir Palace)
The Makkah Museum displays Islamic art, Qur’anic manuscripts, and historical artifacts. It provides an excellent opportunity to learn about Makkah’s heritage and Islamic history.
Entry: Free of charge and open to all visitors.
🕰️ Tips for Pilgrims Traveling from Madinah to Makkah
- Book your taxi early: During Ramadan or Hajj season, travel demand is high. Booking with Umrah Taxi ensures availability.
- Prepare Ihram: Wear Ihram before reaching Miqat (Dhul-Hulayfah).
- Stay hydrated: Keep Zamzam water and snacks during long journeys.
- Explore Ziyarat: Combine your Umrah with visits to these holy sites.
- Use a trusted service: Always choose professional transportation like Umrah Taxi for safe and comfortable travel.
🚗 Why Umrah Taxi is the Right Choice
When traveling across Saudi Arabia, Umrah Taxi is one of the most trusted names for pilgrims and visitors. Whether you’re heading from Madinah to Makkah, Jeddah to Makkah, or planning Ziyarat tours, Umrah Taxi ensures smooth, affordable, and comfortable transportation.
Services Offered:
- Airport transfers (Jeddah, Madinah, Riyadh)
- Intercity travel (Madinah ↔ Makkah, Makkah ↔ Taif, etc.)
- Private Ziyarat tours
- Family and group vehicles (Sedans, Vans, SUVs)
- 24/7 pickup and drop-off availability
Every vehicle is air-conditioned, clean, and driven by experienced chauffeurs familiar with religious routes.