Journey Between Holy Cities: SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah & Ziyarat in Madina

For every pilgrim who sets foot in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, visiting the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah is a dream come true. After completing the rituals of Hajj or Umrah in the blessed city of Makkah, the next natural step for many is to travel to Madinah — the serene resting place of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Whether you're traveling independently or as part of a group, planning your journey between the two cities and arranging Ziyarat in Madina are essential parts of the spiritual experience.

In this comprehensive guide by Harmain Ziarah, we’ll walk you through the best ways to travel, including the popular SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah bus service, and explore the must-visit Ziyarat spots in the Prophet’s City. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or part of a Hajj group, this guide will ensure your journey is smooth, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling.

SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah – An Affordable and Popular Choice

The SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) bus service is a widely used and government-operated intercity transportation option that connects major cities across Saudi Arabia, including the route from Makkah to Madinah. This service is especially beneficial for pilgrims who are looking for an affordable, clean, and structured travel option between the two sacred cities.

Key Benefits of SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah:

• Economical: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
  
  

• Daily Departures: Multiple departures throughout the day.
  
  

• Comfortable Seating: Air-conditioned buses with ample legroom.
  
  

• Prayer Stops: Planned breaks for prayer and refreshments.
  
  

• Booking Options: Tickets can be purchased online, at terminals, or via SAPTCO agents.
  
  

SAPTCO offers both regular and VIP buses, with VIP coaches providing extra space, refreshments, and a smoother experience. The journey typically takes between 6–7 hours depending on traffic and stopovers. While this option doesn’t offer door-to-door service, it’s reliable and widely trusted.

However, if you're looking for more privacy, flexibility, and door-to-door pickup, Harmain Ziarah also provides private Makkah to Madinah taxi services for families or groups.

Planning Your Journey: Makkah to Madinah

Traveling from Makkah to Madinah is a significant part of the spiritual path for Muslims. The drive or bus ride spans around 450 kilometers and takes you through the historical landscape of Hejaz. While SAPTCO offers a structured route, many pilgrims opt for private transport through Harmain Ziarah, which allows more flexibility, personal comfort, and optional detours for Ziyarat sites en route.

Whichever mode of travel you choose, ensure that you:

• Carry your passport/Iqama and relevant documents.
  
  

• Have your hotel bookings confirmed in Madinah.
  
  

• Carry essentials like snacks, water, and a prayer mat.
  
  

• Plan your departure early to arrive before Maghrib prayers in Madinah, if possible.
  
  

Whether by SAPTCO or private car, this spiritual journey is a time for reflection, dhikr, and heartfelt supplications.

Why Harmain Ziarah Stands Out

While SAPTCO serves the masses well, Harmain Ziarah focuses on personalized service for pilgrims seeking enhanced convenience and spiritual depth. We offer:

✅ Private Taxis and Group Transport
✅ English, Urdu, Arabic-speaking Drivers
✅ Ziyarat Packages in Makkah and Madinah
✅ 24/7 Customer Support and Booking Assistance
✅ Clean, Air-Conditioned Vehicles with Luggage Support

We don’t just take you from one city to another — we provide a spiritually enriched journey, giving you the opportunity to focus on your ibadah while we handle the logistics.

Hotel and Accommodation Tips in Madinah

Upon reaching Madinah, it’s important to stay close to Masjid an-Nabawi to make the most of your visit. Most pilgrims prefer hotels within a 5-minute walk to the mosque to easily catch the five daily prayers.

Popular hotel options include:

• Anwar Al Madinah Movenpick
  
  

• Dar Al Taqwa Hotel
  
  

• Pullman ZamZam Madina
  
  

• Frontel Al Harithia
  
  

• Shaza Madinah
  
  

Harmain Ziarah can assist you in booking hotels along with transport arrangements from SAPTCO terminals or airports to your accommodation.

Ziyarat in Madina – Walking in the Footsteps of the Prophet ﷺ

No trip to Madinah is complete without experiencing Ziyarat in Madina. This refers to visiting significant Islamic and historical landmarks in and around the city associated with the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his companions, and key Islamic events.

Must-Visit Ziyarat Sites in Madinah:

1. Masjid Quba
   The first mosque built in Islam. A prayer here is equal to an Umrah.
   
   

2. Masjid Qiblatain
   Where the Qiblah was changed from Jerusalem to Makkah during prayer.
   
   

3. Jannat al-Baqi
   The cemetery where many of the Prophet’s companions, family members, and wives are buried.
   
   

4. Uhud Mountain and Martyrs
   The site of the Battle of Uhud, and the graveyard of Hamza (RA) and other martyrs.
   
   

5. Masjid Al-Ghamama
   A beautiful historic mosque where the Prophet ﷺ used to offer Eid and Istisqa prayers.
   
   

6. Seven Mosques (Sab’a Masajid)
   A collection of small mosques related to the Battle of the Trench.
   
   

With Harmain Ziarah’s guided Ziyarat packages, you'll not only visit these sites but learn about their deep historical significance through our experienced guides. Tours are available in multiple languages and can be tailored to group size and travel dates.

SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah – When to Choose It

Although many pilgrims now prefer private taxis or group packages, the SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah service remains a valuable option for those on a tighter budget or who enjoy traveling with other pilgrims. It is especially suitable if:

• You are traveling solo or in a small group.
  
  

• Your accommodation is close to SAPTCO terminals.
  
  

• You are comfortable with fixed schedules and public seating.
  
  

• You want a cost-effective travel option.
  
  

For those who need more privacy, luggage support, hotel transfers, or customized travel plans, Harmain Ziarah is the better alternative. We even offer pickup from SAPTCO terminals in Madinah and onward transport to hotels or Ziyarat tours.

Final Thoughts on Your Sacred Journey

Whether you choose to travel by SAPTCO Makkah to Madinah or through a private car arranged by Harmain Ziarah, the journey is sacred and meaningful. The goal is not just to reach a destination, but to experience every moment with reflection, purpose, and gratitude. And once you arrive in Madinah, make the most of your stay by immersing yourself in Ziyarat in Madina, connecting deeply with the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.