Makkah to Madinah with Elderly Parents or a Wheelchair

For elderly parents or a wheelchair user, the easiest way between Makkah and Madinah is usually a private taxi from hotel to hotel. The road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, but there are no station transfers, no platforms, no carrying suitcases through crowds, and you can stop for prayer, the toilet or a rest whenever needed. A folding wheelchair fits in the boot of most vehicles. The Haramain high-speed train is faster on the rails, but you still need a car to and from each station, which adds walking, waiting and luggage handling at both ends.

Taxi vs train for elderly travellers

For a fit couple with light bags, the train is a good choice. For elderly parents, anyone with limited mobility, or a family with lots of luggage, the private car is usually less tiring. Read our full Haramain train vs taxi comparison.

Which vehicle to choose

• Toyota Camry (up to 4 passengers, SAR 370) — comfortable for a couple; the front passenger seat reclines well.
• Hyundai Staria (up to 7 passengers, SAR 460) — a sliding side door and a low, flat step make getting in and out much easier for older passengers. Our most popular choice for families with grandparents.
• GMC Yukon XL (up to 7 passengers, SAR 805) — the smoothest ride on a long highway, with a large boot for a wheelchair and suitcases. The step up is higher, so it suits passengers who can climb in with a little help.
• Toyota HiAce (up to 12 passengers, SAR 575) — for a big family travelling together with a wheelchair and plenty of luggage.

Prices are per vehicle, not per person, and include the driver, fuel and luggage help.

Travelling with a wheelchair

• Folding manual wheelchairs fit in the boot of every vehicle we use. Tell us when booking so we leave space for it alongside your suitcases.
• Non-folding or electric wheelchairs need more space. Send us the model or its folded size and we will suggest the right vehicle. We do not currently operate ramp-equipped vehicles, so the passenger needs to be able to transfer into a seat with help.
• Help getting in and out: the driver can help with the wheelchair and bags; a family member should help the passenger into the seat.

How to plan the day

1. Leave after breakfast, not straight after Fajr, so your parents are rested. Arriving in the afternoon gives time to check in and rest before Maghrib.
2. Plan one or two stops. There are service stations with prayer rooms, toilets and food along the highway. Tell the driver your preferences at the start.
3. Keep medicines, water and snacks in the car, not in the boot.
4. Bring a small cushion or neck pillow for the long drive.
5. Book a day or more in advance, and earlier in Ramadan and school holidays.

Going from Madinah to Makkah in Ihram

If you are travelling from Madinah to Makkah to perform Umrah, you must enter Ihram at the Miqat of Dhul Hulaifah (Masjid Abyar Ali), just outside Madinah. In a private car the driver stops there, so elderly pilgrims can make wudu, change and pray without rushing. Many families find it easier to dress in Ihram at the hotel and simply make the intention at the Miqat. See our Madinah to Makkah taxi page.

Wheelchairs at the two Harams

Both Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah have wheelchairs available for pilgrims, and Masjid al-Haram has dedicated routes for wheelchair users during Tawaf and Sa'i. Electric carts are also available at Masjid al-Haram at busy times. Ask at the information points near the main gates. Our drivers can drop you at the gate closest to your hotel or to the wheelchair point.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to travel from Makkah to Madinah with elderly parents?

A private taxi from hotel to hotel is usually the least tiring: no stations or platforms, the driver handles the luggage, and you can stop whenever your parents need a rest. The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Can I take a wheelchair in the taxi?

Yes. A folding wheelchair fits in the boot of every vehicle. For non-folding or electric wheelchairs, send us the size when booking so we can choose a larger vehicle.

Which vehicle is easiest for elderly passengers to get into?

The Hyundai Staria, with its sliding side door and low step, is the easiest. The Toyota Camry is also comfortable for one or two passengers.

Can we stop on the way from Makkah to Madinah?

Yes. There are service stations with prayer rooms, toilets and food along the highway, and the driver stops whenever you need.

Are wheelchairs available at Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi?

Yes. Both mosques provide wheelchairs for pilgrims, and Masjid al-Haram has wheelchair routes for Tawaf and Sa'i. Ask at the information points near the main gates.