Taif, Saudi Arabia’s City of Roses

Escape to nature

Known as the City of Roses, Taif, a city in western Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Province, is a historic jewel of the Kingdom with a story to tell.

Nestled up in the mountains, Taif provides a cool respite from the rest of the country’s summer climates and it is for this reason that it is also known as Saudi’s unofficial summer capital.

Taif is famous for the fragrant flowers that grow in its surrounding wadis and mountains, enveloping the city in distinct floral notes and a noticeable lingering fragrance.

Every spring, the rose bushes bloom throughout the city, from the valley of Wadi Mahram to the 2,500 metre high mountains of Al Shafa, south of the city. With more than 90 rose farms, the area produces the flower in such abundance that many are distilled into some of the world’s most expensive rose oil, or attar, and rose water, which is mixed into the perfumes of luxury brands from around the world. 

Local guides provide tours of the area’s small farms. Taif guide Khalid Sherbi explains, “Taif is simultaneously one of Saudi Arabia’s largest, yet cosiest cities. What I love most about Taif is the range of diversity we have in one city — diversity in agriculture, folkloric dances, dress and even accents. Also, the geographic diversity. We have mountains, valleys, hills and deserts within 50 kilometres of each other.”

Set in the city’s renovated historic centre is Taif Central Market – a labyrinth of narrow alleys, sand-coloured buildings and plazas. Traditional goods, such as jewellery, oud, healing herbs and decorative swords, are sold here in abundance. 

Above the valley that runs towards Makkah, 2,000 meters above sea level, is Al Hada Mountain. Baboons can be found by the side of the road, with zig-zagging camel trails down the mountains. Saudi’s longest cable car also runs 4.2km from the peak of the mountain down to the bottom.

Situated 250 kilometres outside of Taif is Al Wahbah Crater, one of Saudi’s most dramatic natural wonders. With extraordinary desert views from its rim, a hike down into the centre reveals a salt bed of white sodium phosphate crystals.

The beauty of Taif lies in its spectacular natural landscape, rich cultural offering and as a crossroads for both trade and pilgrims in the Hejaz region, its long and deep-rooted history. 

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