Things To Do
in Aţ Ţā’if
At Ta'if is a city located in western Saudi Arabia, famous for its pleasant weather and beautiful mountainous surroundings. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,879 meters, making it a popular summer destination for those seeking escape from the extreme heat of the region. The city is known for its lush gardens, particularly the Al-Ruddaf Park, which features colorful flowers and serene walking paths.
At Ta'if also has historical significance, as it was the site of the signing of the Treaty of Ta'if in 630 AD.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Al-Shafa Mountain to enjoy the breathtaking views and refreshing breeze. Take a short hike to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the area.
Visit the local fruit markets where you can buy fresh produce and experience the vibrant culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant serving local dishes.
Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town and admire the traditional architecture. Wind down your day with a cup of Arabic coffee at a local cafe.
Begin your day with a trip to Taif's botanical gardens to see a variety of beautiful flowers. Enjoy the peaceful environment and take plenty of photos.
After lunch, head to the Al-Qattara Art Zone to explore local art and crafts. Participate in a workshop to create your own souvenir.
Relax at a local park and take in the sunset views. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant with outdoor seating.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Aţ Ţā’if is known for its pleasant climate, especially in summer, making it a popular retreat for residents of hotter regions.
- The city has rich historical and cultural heritage, with access to traditional markets and historic sites.
- Surrounded by mountains, it offers beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking.
- Aţ Ţā’if features various parks and gardens, providing recreational spaces for families and individuals.
- While the climate is generally pleasant, it can experience heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures in winter, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making it necessary to rely on personal vehicles for mobility.
- The city may not have as many modern amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Riyadh or Jeddah.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer, leading to limited job prospects in certain fields.
Best Activities in Aţ Ţā’if
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Scenic mountain road with beautiful views, popular for picnics and outdoor activities.
Offering hiking trails and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Famous for its rose gardens, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aţ Ţā’if with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aţ Ţā’if
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking natural formation offering stunning panoramic views and great photo opportunities.
Known for its picturesque views and scenic landscapes, making it a great spot for photography.
A historical site with beautiful gardens and architecture, providing great photo opportunities.
Food in Aţ Ţā’if
Aţ Ţā’if Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Aromatic rice dish with tender meat, seasoned with a blend of spices including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. Best enjoyed at local restaurants and traditional eateries like Al Khayam Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A savory one-pot dish featuring layers of meat, rice, and vegetables, infused with warm flavors of cumin and turmeric. Savour this dish at Al Fakieh Chicken & Albaik.
A popular street food featuring a thin dough filled with spiced meat, onions, and sometimes eggs, then folded and cooked to golden perfection. Look for street vendors in the bustling areas like Al Ruddaf Park.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant street market offering a wide array of local street food such as grilled meats, falafel, kebabs, and freshly baked bread. Perfect for an authentic street food experience.
This bustling market is a paradise for foodies, with stalls offering aromatic spices, fresh produce, dried fruits, and local delicacies. Don't miss trying traditional snacks like Luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings) and Qursas (date-filled pastries).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aţ Ţā’if, it is important to dress modestly, particularly for women. Wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs is advisable.
Respect local Islamic customs and traditions, such as refraining from public displays of affection, consuming alcohol, or eating in public during fasting hours in Ramadan.
Be mindful of gender segregation in public spaces and adhere to the local customs regarding interaction between men and women.
Safety
Tipping in Aţ Ţā’if
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Aţ Ţā’if, Saudi Arabia, as it is generally not expected or required. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
In Aţ Ţā’if, Saudi Arabia, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments. It is important to note that the use of cash is more prevalent in local markets and smaller shops, so it's advisable to carry enough cash for day-to-day transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Aţ Ţā’if due to pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and lush greenery.
Ideal for visiting Aţ Ţā’if as temperatures are moderate and perfect for outdoor activities.
Hot and dry weather, best to avoid unless you are comfortable with high temperatures.
Cool weather with occasional rainfall, suitable for exploring the city's attractions.
Aţ Ţā’if at Night
Hiking in Aţ Ţā’if
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park located in the Asir Mountains, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views and a rich variety of flora and fauna.
A beautiful park in Aţ Ţā’if featuring well-marked trails for hiking, along with picnic areas and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Known for its steep cliffs and stunning views, this area offers challenging hikes and trails for experienced hikers.
A popular hiking trail that offers picturesque views of Taif and the surrounding valleys, suitable for various skill levels.
A less-known spot with unique rock formations and a picturesque wadi; perfect for adventurous hikers looking for a more secluded experience.
Aiports
How to reach Aţ Ţā’if by plane.
Located in Jeddah, approximately 120 km from Aţ Ţā’if, this is one of the largest international airports in Saudi Arabia, serving as a major gateway for international flights.
Located in Madinah, about 200 km from Aţ Ţā’if, this airport handles both domestic and international flights, with a growing number of connections.
Situated in Riyadh, approximately 800 km from Aţ Ţā’if, this is another major international airport serving the capital of Saudi Arabia.
Located in Abha, around 250 km from Aţ Ţā’if, this airport serves domestic and some international flights and is critical for the southwestern region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The local population of Aţ Ţā’if, primarily consisting of individuals with Saudi citizenship, who are a mix of various tribes and historical settlements in the region.
Foreign workers who live and work in Aţ Ţā’if, including individuals from South Asia, the Philippines, and western countries, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Visitors from other regions, especially during summer when Aţ Ţā’if is a popular destination due to its mild climate and historical sites.
Youth and young adults from various parts of Saudi Arabia and abroad who come to Aţ Ţā’if for education, particularly in its universities and colleges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Aţ Ţā’if, with numerous local teams and a strong following for national and international competitions.
Cricket has gained popularity in Aţ Ţā’if, especially among expatriates from South Asia, with local leagues and community matches.
Basketball is widely played in schools and recreational centers, with increasing interest among the youth.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Aţ Ţā’if, enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, particularly among women.
Running and jogging are popular fitness activities, with several parks and tracks available for the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aţ Ţā’if.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Saudi cuisine heavily features meats, many restaurants in Aţ Ţā’if now offer vegetarian and vegan options such as hearty salads, falafel, and vegetable stews. Cafés like Café Staton and Starbucks provide plant-based alternatives for beverages and light bites.
For gluten-free visitors, it is advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out. Some venues like Al Nofara Café and Taif Rose Café offer gluten-free pastries and dishes, though it's best to inquire about ingredient specifics.