Nestled in the mountains of western Saudi Arabia, Taif, the "City of Roses", blends history and nature into a unique destination.
Taif is famed for its temperate climate, stunning landscapes and centuries-old tradition of cultivating its signature flower—the Taif rose.
For generations, the art of rose cultivation has been a cherished practice, passed down within families who meticulously nurture these fragrant blooms.
The city's elevated terrain, particularly atop Mount Ghazwan, Al-Hada and Al-Shifa, provides the ideal conditions for these delicate flowers to flourish.
The valleys of Wadi Muharram, Al-Talhat, Bilad Tuwairq and Al-Makhadah, along with historic farmlands in Al-Mathnah and Waj, have long been central to this tradition, their soil steeped in the rich legacy of rose cultivation.
Over time, Taif’s rose fields have evolved from modest gardens into a significant cultural and economic symbol.
The vibrant pink petals that once graced only the highest peaks now fuel a flourishing industry, with over 910 farms and nearly 70 distillation factories scattered across the region.
According to Saudi tourism authorities, the industry boasts an annual yield of around 600 million roses, with investments exceeding $16 million in the local market.
The fragrance of Taif’s roses is no longer confined to the Arabian Peninsula—it has journeyed across continents, gaining recognition worldwide.
Local travel guide Ahmed Kashmiri, well-versed in the delicate process of rose production, describes the labor-intensive method of extracting the sought-after attar, an essential oil prized for its deep, floral aroma.
Once handpicked at dawn, the roses are transferred into traditional copper distillation pots, where they undergo a meticulous steaming process.
The heated petals release vapor, which condenses into droplets as it travels through ceramic-cooled tubes.
This yields three prized products: standard rosewater, more concentrated bridal rose water and the world’s most valuable rose attar.
The entire flowering cycle of the Taif rose spans roughly 45 to 50 days.
Each morning during the peak season, farmers harvest the newly bloomed flowers, ensuring optimal fragrance and oil content.
As the days progress, the blooms gradually dwindle until the season ends, marking the unique characteristic of the Taif rose—an exclusive, once-a-year spectacle that has enchanted generations.
Beyond its floral heritage, Taif offers visitors a wealth of experiences. The city’s historic sites, from the grand Shubra Palace to the lively Souk Okaz, stand as a testament to its enduring legacy.
The surrounding landscapes invite adventure seekers to explore hiking trails, ride camels across rolling dunes or take to the skies with exhilarating paragliding experiences.
Meanwhile, the local cuisine, infused with the flavors of fresh produce and rose-infused delicacies, provides a taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
Taif is more than a city—it is a living tapestry of history, nature and culture.
Whether wandering through the fragrant rose gardens, immersing in traditional Saudi hospitality or witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle of rose attar, a visit to Taif is an experience that lingers long after one leaves, much like the intoxicating scent of its legendary blossoms.
