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Ta’if is a dynamic city in the Mecca Province of Saudi Arabia. It is situated at an elevation of 1,879 m on the slopes of the glorious Sarawat Mountains. With a population of 1,200,000 people, Taíf is the unofficial summer capital of Saudi Arabia. Popular attractions include Arruddaf Park, Al Faisaliah Garden and the Al Wabah Crater.
Cheap flights to Ta’if are now available for a limited period of time, so be sure to seize the opportunity and visit this magical city. Ta’if is home to Ta’if Regional Airport (TIF), which is a 15-minute drive from the city centre of Ta’if. Ta’if Regional Airport serves many airlines – including Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines and British Airways. Popular international flights depart from Cape Town and Johannesburg. The flight duration from Johannesburg to Ta’if is approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes.
This dazzling mountain road connects Ta’if city with cities in the West and North. Take a tranquil drive through historic sights. It is sure to be a mind-blowing drive.
Okaz Souk is an open-air market or more commonly referred to as souq/souk, in Ta’if. The market was a common meeting ground for Arabs to have political and social gatherings. Poetry and prose was a common practice here.
Ta’if is known for producing mouthwatering berries, dates, peaches, watermelons and pomegranates, to name a few. Explore the diversity of Ta’if through fresh fruit stalls found at the local souk. Go ahead and surprise your taste buds!
Essential details you need to know before your trip
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Currency | Saudi Riyal |
| Exchange Rate | 1 ZAR = 0.27 SAR |
| Language | Arabic and English |
| Hub Airport | Ta’if Regional Airport (TIF) |
| Airline | Saudi Arabian Airlines |
| Time Zone | GMT +3 |
| Travel Adaptor | Type A, B, C and G |
The city of Ta’if has a hot desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Tourists should relish in the fact that Ta’if is much cooler than other parts of Saudi Arabia, during summer. Many wealthy Arabians and foreigners flock to the city for its cooler temperatures. The hot season lasts for approximately 4 ½ months, which is from mid-May to end-September. Ta’if is renowned for its roses - to encounter the phenomenal rose factory where pure rose water and oil are made, visit during the months of March and April.
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall level (mm) per month
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low °C | 8°C | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C | 23°C | 24°C | 21°C | 16°C | 12°C | 10°C |
| High °C | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C | 30°C | 34°C | 36°C | 35°C | 36°C | 35°C | 21°C | 27°C | 24°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 10 | 2 | 15 | 36 | 36 | 4 | 2 | 18 | 11 | 15 | 25 | 8 |
Situated in the well-known Makkah province of Saudi Arabia, Ta’if is popularly referred to as the ‘city of colours’. Colour dominates throughout the city, with yellow, grey, ochre, green and white buildings featuring against the desert backdrop.
Ta’if is approximately 100 km southeast of Mecca. The walled city is a prominent religious centre as it housed the idol of the goddess of Allāt, who was then known as "the lady of Tā'if.” The city is abundant with majestic natural attractions which are sure to excite all passing through this glorious destination. The Al Hada Mountain is a breath-taking attraction and you should definitely catch the sunset over the mountain - it is a remarkable sight!
Embrace the local culture and be sure to do the camel rides, too.
A trip to Ta’if will leave its mark within your spirit as you ascend into ancient lands and encounter the beautiful people of Saudi Arabia.
Compare several airlines and book your cheap flights to Ta’if online at Travelstart!
South African passport holders require a visa to visit Ta’if and the rest of Saudi Arabia.
The following documents are required to apply for a visa:
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after return date. There should be no Israeli stamps in your passport.
• A completed online application form.
• All applicants are required to appear in person for a biometrics test at the VFS lodgement centre in Sandton.
• Your original flight ticket and a photocopy is required, as well as a full itinerary.
• 3 months bank statements.
• Proof of pre-paid and pre-booked accommodation.
The nearest South African Consulate can be located in Jeddah:
Address: Villa No. 73 Abdullah Aba Al Khayl, Al-Khalidiyah, Jeddah
All travellers going to Saudi Arabia are required to be up-to-date on routine vaccines before travelling to the city. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, flu shot and yellow fever. You will need a Yellow Fever card upon entrance into Saudi Arabia.
It is generally safe in Ta’if. Travellers are encouraged to still remain vigilant as with every new city you visit. Travellers should also take note of Islamic codes of morality. People found violating Islamic law can be arrested or face deportation.
Staying safe in Ta’if:
• Do not carry large sums of cash in public
• Dress modestly and respect the Islamic laws
• Keep all valuables out of sight, inside a zipped pocket, to avoid being pickpocketed
• Always carry a copy of your passport with you
| Item | Cape Town | Johannesburg | Asmara |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal, inexpensive restaurant | R 90 | R 100 | R 55 |
| Domestic beer (0.5 litre draught) | R 22 | R 25 | R 183 |
| Cappuccino | R 19 | R 20 | R 34 |
| Taxi 1km (normal tariff) | R 10 | R 12 | R 48 |
| Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) | R 38 | R 38 | R 48 |
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