Jeddah or Madinah Airport: Which is Cheaper, Faster, and Better for Your Umrah?

When planning an Umrah pilgrimage, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to land: Jeddah or Madinah Airport. Both of these airports serve as primary entry points into Saudi Arabia, yet they offer different experiences for pilgrims traveling for religious purposes. So, which airport is the best choice for your Umrah journey? Does it depend on cost, speed, or comfort?

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between Jeddah or Madinah Airport, helping you understand which airport aligns better with your Umrah packages, whether you’re booking through an Umrah travel agency or organizing it yourself. Let’s explore the Jeddah vs. Madinah airports comparison, covering everything from the best airport for cheaper flights to the fastest and most comfortable route to the Holy Sites.

Jeddah vs. Madinah Airports: The Basics

Before diving into the specifics, let’s start by understanding what each airport offers.

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED)

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport is the most commonly used entry point for pilgrims heading to Mecca. This airport handles millions of travelers every year, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons such as Ramadan and Hajj. Jeddah serves as the primary gateway for Mecca-bound pilgrims, who typically arrive here to begin their Umrah journey.

• Proximity to Mecca: Located just 60-90 minutes away from Mecca, Jeddah is the ideal airport for those starting their pilgrimage at the Holy Mosque.

• Large Capacity and More International Flights: Jeddah Airport offers a wide range of international flights, including options from budget airlines. This makes it easier to find cheaper flights to Saudi Arabia.

• Busy and Crowded: While Jeddah provides more flight options, the airport can become crowded, especially during high-demand seasons like Ramadan Umrah Packages and Hajj.

Madinah’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED)

Madinah Airport, located in the holy city of Madinah, is the second major gateway for pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia. Unlike Jeddah, Madinah is a smaller, quieter airport that appeals to those who want to begin their journey with Madinah ziyarah before heading to Mecca.

• Proximity to Madinah: The airport is just 20-30 minutes from the Prophet’s Mosque, making it ideal for pilgrims who wish to start their spiritual journey in Madinah.

• Fewer International Flights: While it’s a vital airport for Umrah, Madinah sees fewer international flights compared to Jeddah, which can make it harder to find affordable flights, especially during peak seasons.

• Less Crowded: Because Madinah is smaller and less congested, the airport is often a more peaceful entry point, making it an attractive option for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle.

Which Airport Offers Cheaper Flights: Jeddah or Madinah?

The cost of your flight is a significant consideration for most pilgrims, and it’s likely to impact your decision between Jeddah vs. Madinah airports. So, is one airport cheaper than the other?

Flight Prices from London to Jeddah and Madinah

For those flying from London, Jeddah is generally the cheaper option, offering a wide range of flight options, including budget airlines. Let’s look at the current prices for January 2026:

• Cheapest One-Way Flights (London to Jeddah): You can find one-way flights from London to Jeddah starting at around £137 (~$175). Options like Wizz Air and Ryanair offer cheaper flights with one stop. If you’re flying with a full-service airline like British Airways or Saudia, expect to pay more, around £389+ for a direct flight.

• Cheapest Round-Trip Flights (London to Jeddah): Round-trip flights can cost around £244 (~$310) for Wizz Air UK (indirect). For round-trip flights, prices can range from £278 (~$360) to £405, depending on the airline and number of stops.

Madinah Flight Prices

On the other hand, flights to Madinah tend to be more expensive due to the fewer number of international flights. For example:

• Cheapest One-Way Flights (London to Madinah): One-way flights from London to Madinah start around £160 (~$200), but it’s not uncommon to see prices around £500+ for flights with fewer direct options.

• Cheapest Round-Trip Flights (London to Madinah): Round-trip flights to Madinah are generally higher, with prices starting around £500 for indirect flights.

Why Jeddah is Usually Cheaper

1. More Budget Airline Options: Jeddah’s airport attracts budget carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair, which help keep prices low.

2. Larger Selection of Flights: Jeddah offers more international flights, increasing competition and lowering flight prices, especially for travelers flying from popular hubs like London.

3. Cheaper Connecting Flights: If you’re flexible with your dates and willing to take a connecting flight, Jeddah often offers the best airport for cheaper flights with multiple stop options.

Hidden Costs: Jeddah’s Transfer to Madinah

Though Jeddah offers cheaper flights to Saudi Arabia, you should also factor in the potential additional costs of transfers to Madinah. A taxi ride from Jeddah to Madinah will take about 4-5 hours, and while it’s a convenient option, it’s also costly. If you’re on a budget, consider taking the Haramain high-speed train, which connects Jeddah to Madinah in about 2.5 hours, with prices ranging between £20–£50.

Pro Tip for Budget Travelers

For Ramadan Umrah Packages, it’s best to book early and be flexible with your dates. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper than weekend options, and booking through an Umrah travel agency can help you access discounted Umrah packages bundled with flights.

Which Airport Gets You to the Holy Sites Faster?

When you’re traveling for Umrah, time matters. You want to spend as little time traveling between airports and holy sites as possible. So, let’s explore which airport offers the fastest access to the Holy Sites.

Jeddah: Faster for Mecca, Longer for Madinah

• Quick Access to Mecca: Jeddah is located just 60-90 minutes from Mecca, making it the best option if your Umrah travel agency has designed a Mecca-first itinerary. A taxi or bus ride will take you directly to the Holy Mosque in Mecca.

• Longer Journey to Madinah: However, if your itinerary requires traveling to Madinah after Mecca, you’ll face a 4-5 hour drive, or you can take the Haramain high-speed train to Madinah in about 2.5 hours.

Madinah: Faster for Madinah, Longer for Mecca

• Quick Access to Madinah: If your journey starts in Madinah, the airport is just 20-30 minutes away from the Prophet’s Mosque, which is convenient for those wishing to perform Madinah ziyarah.

• Longer Journey to Mecca: The journey from Madinah to Mecca takes about 4-5 hours by car, or 2.5 hours by train.

Which Airport is Faster?

If your Umrah packages include Mecca first, then Jeddah Airport is the faster choice. However, if your trip focuses on Madinah ziyarah first, Madinah Airport is the most efficient.

Airport Facilities and Pilgrim Experience

When choosing between Jeddah or Madinah Airport, comfort and convenience are key. Let’s look at the facilities at both airports.

Jeddah Airport

• Large and Well-Equipped: Jeddah’s airport is a huge hub with many amenities, including duty-free shops, lounges, and various Hajj terminals designed to accommodate Umrah pilgrims.

• More Crowded: While Jeddah has excellent facilities, it can also feel overwhelming during busy periods, with long queues at immigration and security.

Madinah Airport

• Smaller and Calmer: Madinah Airport offers a quieter arrival experience. Though smaller, it has efficient processing for pilgrims and provides direct shuttle services to the Prophet’s Mosque.

• Fewer Amenities: While the facilities are more limited than Jeddah’s, the serene atmosphere can make up for it, especially for those looking to relax and focus on their pilgrimage.

Best Airport for Your Umrah Journey

When choosing between Jeddah or Madinah Airport in your London Umrah packages, think about your specific pilgrimage goals. Most packages from London depart from Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW), offering both direct and connecting options.

Mecca-First Pilgrimage: Jeddah

If your Umrah itinerary includes Mecca first, then Jeddah is the best airport. The airport is close to Mecca and offers more flight options, including cheaper flights to Saudi Arabia from cities like London.

Madinah Ziyarah First: Madinah

If you prefer a peaceful start with Madinah ziyarah, then flying into Madinah Airport might be the better choice. It’s closer to the Prophet’s Mosque, offering a more serene atmosphere for your pilgrimage.

Note: If you’re wondering about When Will Umrah Be Open After Hajj 2026, services typically resume shortly after Hajj concludes, with travel reopening in mid to late August 2026. Pilgrims should stay updated on the exact dates as Umrah packages become available soon after Hajj 2026. To ensure a smooth experience, consider booking early and keeping an eye on any travel changes or visa updates for the post-Hajj period.

Conclusion

Choosing Jeddah or Madinah Airport for your Umrah pilgrimage depends largely on your priorities. If you’re looking for cheaper flights and faster access to Mecca, Jeddah is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a peaceful arrival and are focused on Madinah ziyarah, Madinah Airport offers a more serene experience.

No matter where you land, make sure to book through a trusted Umrah travel agency to ensure smooth connections and competitive pricing for your Umrah packages. Safe travels, and may your Umrah be accepted.

Sources:

• “Booking.com” for flight price comparisons.

• “Saudi Arabia Pilgrimage Airports,” Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.