The Destination
The moment I stepped into the Haramain High-Speed Railway Station in Medina, I knew this wasn't going to be your average train ride. The polished marble floors stretched out like an airport terminal, and the departures board flickered between Arabic and English. A friendly Egyptian traveler waved me toward the lifts, and within minutes I was gliding through a spotless, air-conditioned corridor toward Platform 1. This is the Middle East's first bullet train, and it connects the two holiest cities in Islam — Medina and Mecca — in just over three hours. But here's what surprised me most: despite being a pilgrimage route, the train attracts a fascinating mix of Umrah visitors, business travelers, and curious tourists like me. Saudi Arabia has been actively opening its doors to international visitors since 2019, and the Haramain High-Speed Railway is one of its crown jewels. For anyone wanting to experience the country's rapid modernization without the hassle of domestic flights or long road trips, this train is a game-changer.
Getting There & Getting Around
Getting to Medina is straightforward if you fly into Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport. There are direct flights from major hubs like Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, and London. Once you land, you can take a taxi or ride-hail app to the train station — it's about a 20-minute drive from the city center. The station itself is enormous, so give yourself at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform. The signage is bilingual, but the initial departures board might show only Arabic; wait a few seconds and it will switch to English. The train runs multiple times daily between Medina, Jeddah, and Mecca, with the fastest trip from Medina to Jeddah taking just 1 hour 40 minutes. If you're planning a multi-city Saudi itinerary, this train is far more comfortable and time-efficient than driving or taking a bus. The best time to ride is during the cooler months (November to February) when the desert heat isn't overwhelming, but the train is air-conditioned year-round. Just remember that during Ramadan and Hajj season, tickets sell out fast — book at least a week in advance.
The Experience
From the moment I boarded, the hospitality was overwhelming. A steward handed me a fragrance-free wet wipe, then came around with complimentary Saudi coffee and dates before we even left the station. The coffee was lighter and spiced with cardamom — nothing like the bitter espresso I'm used to — and it was delicious. The business class cabin featured plush leather seats, a personal entertainment screen with English-language options (including prayer guides and documentaries about the Prophet's Mosque), and a fold-down tray table. I spent the first 30 minutes wandering through the train, and every passenger I met was eager to chat. One local entrepreneur, owner of a specialty coffee chain with 25 branches, insisted I visit AlUla — a stunning desert region with ancient tombs and luxury resorts that he described as "between the mountains and sands." Another passenger, Mohammed from Medina, told me the train is Spanish-made (Talgo) and that the Mecca station is even bigger than Medina's, with 10 platforms. The toilet was spotless, with plenty of toilet paper and a sink — a rare luxury on trains anywhere. By the time we reached Jeddah, I'd been offered food (a full fish biryani), more coffee, and countless smiles. What struck me most was how genuinely proud Saudis are of their country and how eager they are to share it with visitors.
Costs & Budget
A business class ticket on the Haramain High-Speed Railway costs 706 Saudi Arabian riyals, which is roughly $170 USD. That might sound steep for a 3-hour train ride, but consider what's included: a comfortable reclining seat, a personal entertainment screen, complimentary coffee and dates, a full meal (I had fish biryani), and impeccable service. Economy class is significantly cheaper — around 150-200 SAR ($40-$53) — but you miss out on the meal and the quieter cabin. For comparison, a domestic flight between Medina and Jeddah can cost as little as $60, but you'll spend more time on airport transfers and security. If you're on a mid-range budget, I'd recommend business class for the experience; if you're backpacking, economy is perfectly fine and still offers clean bathrooms and friendly staff. Accommodation in Medina ranges from budget hostels ($20/night) to luxury hotels like the Pullman Zamzam ($200+/night). Meals outside the train are affordable — a good kebab or biryani costs about $8-$12. Overall, budget travelers can manage $60-$80 per day, while mid-range travelers should plan for $150-$200.
For Travel Creators
This train is a goldmine for content creators. The station's architecture is photogenic — think sweeping glass ceilings, geometric patterns, and wide-angle platform shots. Onboard, the lighting is warm and even, making it easy to film interviews with fellow passengers. I recommend sitting in business class for the food service and the chance to chat with locals. The train's speed (up to 300 km/h) means you can capture smooth B-roll out the window — the desert landscape shifts from rocky hills to sprawling cities. A few tips: ask permission before filming anyone, especially in prayer areas. The station staff are used to vloggers and are generally helpful. If you want to capture the full journey, film the departure from Medina, the coffee service, and the arrival into Jeddah or Mecca. The contrast between the holy cities and the modern train is a compelling storytelling angle. Also, don't miss the opportunity to interview passengers — they're often happy to share recommendations. For a cinematic touch, use a gimbal for walking shots through the carriages, and capture the moment the train accelerates past 200 km/h.
Should You Go?
Absolutely — but with a few caveats. This train is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families who want to see multiple cities in Saudi Arabia without the stress of driving or flying. The hospitality alone makes it worth the ticket price. If you're a luxury seeker, business class delivers a five-star experience. Backpackers can still enjoy the journey in economy and save money for other adventures. However, if you're on a tight schedule and only visiting one city, the train might not be necessary — domestic flights can be cheaper and faster. But for anyone wanting to experience Saudi Arabia's ambitious modernization firsthand, the Haramain High-Speed Railway is a must-ride. It's not just transportation; it's a window into the country's soul — friendly, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in tradition. Just don't forget to ask a local for their favorite coffee spot. You might end up with an invitation to AlUla.
