Before we start
Every day we pick up people arriving in the Kingdom for the very first time, and a few days later many of them say the same thing: "I wish I had known this before I came." Here are the points we hear most often, arranged from before you fly to the day you leave.
Before you travel
1. Choose your visa from the official source
There are different visas for Umrah, tourism, family visits and business, and their conditions can change. Do not rely on a forum post from a few years ago; check the official visa portal or the Nusuk platform, and make sure your passport has enough validity left.
2. Install the key apps before take-off
Pilgrims will usually need the Nusuk platform for certain bookings and permits, such as visiting the Rawdah in Madinah. Install it and make sure you can log in before you travel. WhatsApp is the most common way to communicate with hotels and drivers, so have it ready too.
3. Book your airport pickup before you land
After a long flight you will not want to hunt for a car or negotiate a fare. With a pre-booked ride, the driver waits in the arrivals hall with a name sign, tracks your flight, and you get 60 minutes of free waiting after landing. Read more about the Jeddah Airport to Makkah transfer.
When you arrive
4. Get a local SIM at the airport
Telecom counters are in the arrivals hall and you will need your passport to register. If your phone supports eSIM, you can also set one up before you fly.
5. Money: cards work almost everywhere, but carry a little cash
The currency is the Saudi riyal, pegged to the US dollar at 3.75. Card and phone payments are very widespread in hotels, restaurants and shops. Still, a small amount of cash is handy for small shops, charity and tips.
6. Keep your hotel address in Arabic
Save it on your phone or on a slip of paper, along with a map pin. It saves a lot of explaining with any driver or staff member.
During your stay
7. Distances are bigger than you think
Jeddah Airport to Makkah is about 100 km, Makkah to Madinah about 450 km, and Makkah to Taif about 90 km. Do not plan three cities in two days; you will spend the whole trip in a car.
8. The day revolves around prayer
Some shops may close for a few minutes at the call to prayer, and the roads around the Holy Mosques get busy before and after each prayer. Plan pickups and shopping around this. For more on everyday customs, see our guide to everyday etiquette in Saudi Arabia.
9. The heat is serious
Summer temperatures are very high. Drink water constantly, use an umbrella for shade, and save long walks for early morning or evening. The cooler months from autumn to spring are the most comfortable time to visit.
10. The weekend is Friday and Saturday
Friday is especially busy around mosques before and after the congregational prayer, so avoid scheduling travel or a flight close to Friday prayer time.
When you leave
11. Book your ride back to the airport early
Demand is high in busy seasons, so book a day or two ahead and tell us your flight time; we will suggest a pickup time with a sensible buffer.
12. Know the rules for Zamzam and souvenirs
Each airline has its own instructions for Zamzam water and baggage weight. Check them before you head to the airport rather than repacking at the check-in desk.
A bonus tip: plan one day outside the two cities
Many visitors do not realise that Taif is relatively close to Makkah, and its mountain climate is much milder, especially in summer, so it works well as a day trip there and back. With more time, there are further destinations such as AlUla, north of Madinah. Do not try to squeeze everything into your first visit; pick one extra destination and enjoy it. Details on the Taif taxi page.
And remember that air conditioning is strong in hotels, mosques and vehicles, so a light layer is useful even in the hottest months.
Core transport fares
| Route | Sedan | Family SUV / van | VIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Airport to Makkah | 200 SAR | 350 SAR | 500 SAR |
| Makkah to Madinah | 400 SAR | 600 SAR | 1000 SAR |
| Makkah to Jeddah Airport | 190 SAR | 300 SAR | 500 SAR |
| Makkah to Taif (round trip) | 400 SAR | 600 SAR | 800 SAR |
Fares are per car and paid on arrival. Full details in our taxi fare guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims enter Makkah?
No. Entry to the city of Makkah is restricted to Muslims.
Is tap water drinkable?
Most people drink bottled water, which is cheap and available everywhere.
Should I rent a car or use a driver?
Driving in the big cities can be stressful for newcomers, and parking near the Holy Mosques is very limited. Most pilgrims prefer a driver for trips between cities.
How do I book with you?
On WhatsApp at +966582918075 or through the booking page, 24/7.