Taif

Taif (Arabic: اَلطَّائِفُ‎, romanized: Aṭ-Ṭāʾif, lit. ’The circulated or encircled’, Hejazi Arabic pronunciation: is a city and governorate in the Province of Makkah in Saudi Arabia. Located at an elevation of 1,879 m (6,165 ft) in the slopes of the Hijaz Mountains, which themselves are part of the Sarat Mountains, the city has a population of 563,282 people in 2022, making it one of the most populous cities in the kingdom.

There is a belief that Taif is indirectly referred to in Quran 43:31. The city was visited by the Islamic prophet Muhammad, sometime in the early 7th century, and was inhabited by the tribe of Banu Thaqif. It is still inhabited to this day by their descendants. As a part of the Hejaz, the city has seen many transfers-of-power throughout its history, with the last being during the Saudi conquest of Hejaz in 1925.

Taif, a charming city in the mountains of western Saudi Arabia, is known as the “City of Roses” for its stunning rose gardens and cool, refreshing climate. Located in the Hejaz region near Mecca, Taif has long served as a summer escape for both locals and visitors due to its elevation and pleasant weather. The city is famous for its fragrant Taif roses, which are used to produce highly sought-after rose oil and perfumes. Taif’s natural beauty, combined with historical sites and vibrant souks, gives it a unique appeal. Visitors enjoy scenic landscapes, from valleys to rugged mountains, and cultural festivals that showcase local arts and traditions.