Weekend Trips from Taif: Al Hada, Al Shafa & More

Taif's cool mountain air and easy road links make it one of the best bases for weekend trips in the Makkah region. Whether you fancy a scenic cable-car ride, a picnic among fruit farms, or a quick drive down to Makkah or Jeddah, you can plan a full day out without any special paperwork. For Saudi citizens and residents, these internal weekend movements require no travel permits or government e-platform procedures as of 2026 — just fuel up, pack light, and go.

What a weekend from Taif costs

Budgets vary widely depending on where you stay and how you travel. As a rough per-day guide for 2026:

• Budget: SAR 180–470 per day (simple hotel, local food, and mostly free attractions).
• Mid-range (3–4 star): SAR 470–1,100
• High-end: SAR 950+

If you'd rather not drive, a private driver for an 8-hour mountain day-tour covering Al Hada and Al Shafa typically costs around SAR 350–500 for the vehicle.

Al Hada Mountain & Cable Car

Northwest of the city on the Taif–Makkah road, Al Hada is famous for its winding mountain highway and the cable car (تلفريك الهدا) that glides over dramatic slopes. It's the classic half-day trip from Taif.

• Local budget pricing in 2026 is around SAR 30–50 one-way and SAR 50–70 return, with tickets bought on-site.
• Some operators and packages still quote a higher structure of around SAR 150 one-way and SAR 300 round-trip, plus about SAR 30 for a toboggan ride, with children often riding free.
• Prices vary by operator and package, so check the on-site ticket booth before you ride.

The cable car generally runs daily into the late evening, though exact hours shift with the season and operator.

Al Shafa Mountains

Southwest of Taif, Al Shafa is a green highland escape known for cool weather, rose and fruit farms, and sweeping viewpoints. It's a relaxed spot for walking, picnics, and photography.

• Access to the public mountain area and park is typically free in 2026.
• Your main cost is fuel or transport; a guided mountain day-tour combining Al Shafa and Al Hada runs about SAR 350–500 for a private driver and vehicle.
• Pack a light jacket — temperatures here are noticeably cooler than the city.

Al Rudaf Park in the city

If you'd rather stay close, Al Rudaf Park (منتزه الردف) in the Al Ruddaf district near Abu Talib Street is an easy, family-friendly option. Entry is free in 2026, making it a great low-cost afternoon for walking and unwinding without leaving town.

Day trips to Makkah and Jeddah

Taif's location makes short trips to Makkah and Jeddah straightforward by car. No permits are needed for residents, though non-Muslim travellers should note the restricted-area rules around Makkah. Jeddah's coast and old district make a pleasant contrast to Taif's mountain climate.

Practical tips

• Weekends and holidays get busy on the Al Hada road — set out early to beat traffic and queues.
• Carry cash for on-site cable-car tickets and small farm stalls.
• Confirm current attraction hours and any updated fees at official venue counters before you plan your day.

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