Updated · Saudi Arabia Taxi Services
Why visit Khaybar?
A trip to Khaybar from Madinah takes you to a historic oasis north of the city, known for its old fortresses and for the campaign of Khaybar in 7 AH (628 CE), one of the major events of the Seerah. It is not a religious rite, but it appeals to pilgrims with a spare day in Madinah who want to see a place they have read about in the Seerah.
Khaybar is also on the main road to Al Ula, so it is an easy stop for anyone driving north to the heritage sites there. Our Khaybar oasis and fortresses page has the site details.
How far is Khaybar from Madinah?
Khaybar is 170 km from Madinah on Route 15 north, about 2 h each way. With four hours on the road and time to walk around the oasis, it is a full-day trip, so leave in the morning.
If you fly into Madinah, the driver can collect you at the airport and head straight north: Madinah Airport to Khaybar is 186 km, about 2 h 15 min.
Day trip or stop on the way to Al Ula?
The Al Ula fare already includes a rest stop at Khaybar. If you want a proper look at the oasis and fortresses on the way, tell us when you book; we add the longer stop and include it in your fixed quote.
| Plan | Best for | Economy sedan |
|---|---|---|
| Return day trip from Madinah | Pilgrims based in Madinah who want to see Khaybar and come back the same day | From SAR 580 |
| One way, Madinah to Khaybar | Travellers staying in Khaybar or going on by other transport | SAR 290 |
| Stop on the way to Al Ula | Travellers heading north; Madinah to Al Ula is 350 km | SAR 600 |
| Hourly driver | A flexible day with extra stops | SAR 80 per hour, 3-hour minimum |
What is there to see at Khaybar?
Khaybar is an oasis with old fortresses, beside the wide Harrat Khaybar volcanic field that you see from the road. The oasis has long been known for its date palms.
Opening and access arrangements at heritage sites can change, and some areas may only be seen from outside. Check what is open before you go, follow the signs on site, and do not climb on old walls.
To get more from the visit, read about the campaign of Khaybar in a Seerah book before you go. The driver knows the road and the main sites and can explain what you are seeing in English, Urdu or Arabic.
When is the best time to go?
Start in the morning. From about May to September, Madinah afternoons are typically above 40 °C and the road north is just as hot, so walk around the sites early and spend the hottest hours in the car or at a rest stop.
The cooler months, from about November to February, are the most comfortable for walking outdoors. Pack a warm layer for the evening drive back in winter.
Which car for a Khaybar day trip?
Four hours on the highway is easier with room to stretch. For a family of four to six, a Comfort MPV or SUV is a good choice, and groups of up to 11 fit in a family van. Fares are per car, with fuel, the driver and rest and prayer stops included.
| Vehicle | Seats | Madinah to Khaybar, one way |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Sedan | 1–3 | SAR 290 |
| Standard Sedan | 1–3 | SAR 340 |
| Comfort MPV | 4–6 | SAR 430 |
| Family Van | 7–11 | SAR 550 |
| SUV | 4–7 | SAR 600 |
Going on to Al Ula
Khaybar is roughly halfway between Madinah and Al Ula, and services are limited on the stretch after Khaybar, so carry water and snacks. Our Madinah to Al Ula road trip guide covers the full drive, and Al Ula in 2 days suggests a plan once you arrive.
If you are staying at a resort in Al Ula's Ashar Valley, send your resort gate booking reference with your booking, as it is needed for vehicle entry.
Khaybar day trip checklist
- Leave Madinah in the morning.
- Carry water, snacks and sun protection.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the old sites.
- Tell the driver when you want to stop for prayer; prayer stops are included.
- Agree a time to leave Khaybar, so you are back in Madinah when you need to be.
- Cancel free up to 24 hours before pickup if your plans change.