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Taif

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📍 Location & Meaning of the Name

  • Taif means “the enveloped” or “the circled” in Arabic, likely referring to the stone wall that historically surrounded the city or to its location encircled by mountains.
  • Situated in the Hejaz region, about 70 km southeast of Makkah, at an elevation of 1,800–2,000 m in the Sarawat Mountains.

🏛 History

  • Taif has ancient roots as a fertile oasis and trade hub on caravan routes.
  • Known for its agriculture—especially grapes, honey, and roses—it was prized by tribes and rulers.
  • In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ traveled to Taif seeking support, but was rejected; later, the city accepted Islam after the Battle of Hunayn.
  • During the Ottoman era, Taif became a fortified garrison town.
  • It was captured by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1924, playing a role in the unification of modern Saudi Arabia.

🌤 Weather & Climate

  • Taif enjoys a mild mountain climate compared to the hot lowlands.
  • Summers: warm, 25–35 °C, attracting visitors escaping the heat of Makkah and Jeddah.
  • Winters: cool to cold, with temperatures dropping below 10 °C at night.
  • Rainfall is relatively higher than most Saudi cities, making it lush and green.
  • Best time to visit: April–October.

👥 People & Culture

  • Population: about 1.2 million.
  • Known as the “Summer Capital” of Saudi Arabia, many Saudis and Gulf residents retreat here during hot months.
  • The culture reflects a blend of Hejazi traditions, Bedouin heritage, and agricultural life.
  • Taif is especially famous for its rose cultivation and traditional perfumes made from Taif roses.

🏞 Best Places to Visit

  • Shubra Palace – historic royal residence, now a museum.
  • Al-Rudaf Park – natural park with granite formations and greenery.
  • Taif Rose Gardens & Rose Factory – showcasing the city’s iconic rose industry.
  • Souq Okaz – revival of the ancient pre-Islamic market and poetry festival.
  • Al-Hada & Al-Shafa Mountains – resorts and cool retreats with cable cars and panoramic views.
  • Al-Kurr Waterfall & Wadis – natural valleys and seasonal streams.

🍽 Food

  • Local cuisine includes:
    • Kabsa & Mandi – traditional Saudi rice and meat dishes.
    • Barbecued lamb and fresh honey from mountain farms.
    • Rose-flavored sweets and drinks unique to Taif.
  • The city also offers modern restaurants and traditional tea houses.

🎭 What It Offers Tourists

  • Natural beauty: mountains, valleys, gardens, and cool weather.
  • Cultural heritage: ancient markets, poetry traditions, and museums.
  • Agriculture & roses: famous Taif roses, perfumes, and festivals.
  • Family leisure: parks, cable cars, and picnic areas.
  • Spiritual proximity: close to Makkah, making it a popular stop for pilgrims.

👉 Taif is often called the “City of Roses” and the “Summer Capital of Saudi Arabia.” It offers tourists a refreshing mix of cool climate, history, natural scenery, and cultural charm—a unique contrast to the desert landscapes of much of the Kingdom.

Available Tours

19 Oct, 2025 -23 Oct, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

19 Oct, 2025 -23 Oct, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

19 Oct, 2025 -23 Oct, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

19 Oct, 2025 -23 Oct, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

19 Oct, 2025 -23 Oct, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

3 Jan, 2026 -7 Jan, 2026

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

31 Dec, 2025 -4 Jan, 2026

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif

27 Dec, 2025 -31 Dec, 2025

4 Days & 3 Nights Tour to Taif

Taif to Taif