Nestled in Hijaz Mountains of Saudi Arabia, Taif City is a cool escape in the desert! Known for its charm, history, and natural beauty, the city is home to many hidden gems, but none more breathtaking than Arruddaf Park. Also known as Al Rudaf Park, this scenic destination features wide-open green spaces, colorful flowerbeds, dancing fountains, and kid-friendly attractions, making it an ideal place for locals and tourists to unwind and spend quality time in nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a lively spot for a family day out, this park offers an amazing experience for every traveler. Let’s dive into everything that makes Arruddaf Park an iconic tourist attraction in Taif!
Things to Do in Arruddaf Park for Fun Family Outings
Spanning over an area of 500 square meters, Aruddaf Park is packed with exciting attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Some popular things to do in Arruddaf Park are:
1. Attend the world-famous Taif Rose Festival
Al Ruddaf Park is popular for hosting the world-famous Taif Rose Festival every year, which celebrates the region’s fragrant Damask roses. During the festival, the park features large displays of blooms, fragrant gardens, and a giant flower carpet made from over a million roses and seedlings. Here, visitors can enjoy cultural shows and music performances, attend workshops, see local crafts, and buy rose products like perfume, soap, and rose water from the stalls.
2. Watch a musical show at the Dancing Fountain
The centerpiece of Arruddaf Park is its spectacular dancing fountain, one of the largest in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As the sun sets, the fountain comes alive with a mesmerizing show of water jets choreographed to music and colorful lights. The show is hosted every evening from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM, except on Friday. Visitors gather around the dedicated viewing areas to watch the water shoot up to an impressive height of 80 meters in perfect sync with the melodies.
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3. Go boating on the lake
A massive artificial lake within Arruddaf Park offers a tranquil spot for recreation and leisure. Visitors can go on a boat ride or indulge in activities like kayaking and paddle boating to explore the calm waters and surroundings from different perspectives. The lake is surrounded by well-maintained walkways and gardens, where visitors can enjoy a romantic stroll or fun family activities. The gentle breeze and the reflection of the greenery on the surface of the lake waters create a peaceful and picturesque setting for unwinding after a day of exploration.
4. Enjoy picnicking in the green lawns
Al Rudaf Park is famous for its expansive manicured lawns. These green spaces feature numerous designated spots for picnics where families and groups can spread out their blankets and enjoy a meal amidst nature. The gardens are designed with vibrant flowerbeds, which enhance the beauty of the park. Visitors can relax under a tree, read a book, or simply soak in the serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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5. Play sports games in dedicated courts
Arruddaf Park features recreational facilities and courts for a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, football, and handball. These dedicated sports areas are designed for both casual play and serious games and are open to all ages. Playing sports here is a great way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors in a lively environment. Additionally, the park has a 10-metre-wide walking track that stretches for approximately 4,000 meters, which is ideal for long walks or jogging amidst nature.
6. Explore the Children’s Playgrounds
The well-equipped playgrounds within the park are literally a paradise for children. With an array of swings, slides, and climbing structures, these play areas are designed to keep the little ones entertained for hours in a safe and secure environment. These zones are thoughtfully located near picnic spots and food kiosks, allowing parents to relax and enjoy snacks while keeping an eye on their children. The variety of equipment in these playgrounds caters to different age groups and allows every child to indulge in some fun during the outing.
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Top Hotels to Stay in Near Arruddaf Park in Taif
- Awaliv International Hotel
Standing next to Heart Mall in Taif, Awaliv International Hotel is a 5-star hotel that offers ultimate luxury and convenience for the guests. The hotel has 266 rooms across 30 floors, each equipped with comfortable bedding, attached bathrooms, free minibar items and other modern amenities. It also features a health club, indoor pool, sauna, gym, business center, conference room and hairdresser. Visitors can dine at its revolving restaurant on the 29th floor or enjoy a cup of coffee at Bellevue Café on the 30th floor along with spectacular views of the city. The hotel also offers airport shuttle service for a fee and free on‑site parking.
- InterContinental Taif by IHG
Just a 20-minute drive from Arruddaf Park, InterContinental Taif by IHG is one of the most premier hotels in Taif City. This 5-star hotel features 179 rooms and suites with air conditioning, modern bathrooms and minibars. It also has a health club with a sauna and steam room, indoor and outdoor pools, business meeting facilities, tennis court and billiards. The on-site restaurants serve a variety of gourmet dishes, from Middle Eastern specialties to international dishes. The expansive gardens and serene atmosphere provide a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration.
- Remaj Hotel
Opened in 2019, Remaj Hotel Taif offers a luxurious stay in its 63 well-furnished rooms and suites with terraces. Guest rooms have air conditioning, minibars, LED TVs, comfortable bedding, and private bathrooms with rainfall showerheads. This 4-star hotel offers many comforts such as a lobby lounge, free Wi‑Fi, free parking, ten indoor pools, and massage and other spa services. It also features a female-only health club with a sauna, a gym and an indoor pool. The hotel has a restaurant and a coffee shop, offering a gourmet menu and buffet breakfast.
- Hotel Gardens View
Hotel Gardens View is a 3-star accommodation in Taif, located about 16.3 km from Addurraf Park. It offers 26 air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and basic amenities like irons, TVs, and kitchenettes in some units. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk service and provides free Wi‑Fi throughout the building. Additionally, guests can enjoy free valet parking during their stay. It is located close to attractions like the Shafa Mountains, Beit Kaki, Taif Zoo, Heart Mall, and Al‑Kady Rose Factory, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience at an affordable price.
- Meral Oasis Resort Taif
Barely 1.7 kilometers fromAddurraf Park, Meral Oasis Resort Taif is a popular budget-friendly stay in Taif. It hasabout 33 spacious, modern villas surrounded by greenery and fountains. Each villa comes with its own private pool and sauna, a living room, kitchenette and garden seating area. Some units also feature a rooftop lounge. The resort also offers shared amenities like an indoor heated pool, cafe, gym, kids’ play zone, and free Wi‑Fi throughout the premises.
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Top Restaurants and Cafes Near Arruddaf Park
- Ozone Restaurant
Located in the Al‑Sadad (Shehar) district, Ozone Restaurant is a modern dining venue in Taif. The restaurant offers a comfortable indoor dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere. It is popular for its fresh seafood dishes like calamari and cuttlefish and Filipino-style meals such as Sinigang and Chopsuey. The patio full of plants not only adds a touch of serenity but also enhances the overall look of the restaurant.
- Ahlan Restaurant
Ahlan Restaurant is your go-to-place for a traditional dining experience near Arruddaf Park in Taif. The restaurant specializes in authentic Saudi and Middle Eastern dishes, like Kabsa, Mandi, and fresh grills. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with seating options that cater to both families and individuals. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in the local food culture and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal in a relaxed setting.
- Bohoo
Bohoo is a popular restaurant in the Al‑Sadad area of Taif, known for its modern vibe and friendly atmosphere. It serves a diverse menu, comprising Italian, French, American, Asian, and Arabic cuisine, across breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant is particularly famous for foods like pasta, sliders, and coffee. Don’t miss trying its signature French toast pancakes and Pistachio magic box with pistachio sauce and rose-flavored candyfloss.
- The Coffee Address
Craving a cup of coffee? Head straight to The Coffee Address, a modern and trendy cafe in Taif. It serves a wide selection of specialty coffees, teas, and delicious pastries. The cafe is known for its chic ambience and cozy seating arrangement, which is perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done. The skilled baristas take pride in their craft, ensuring every cup is brewed to perfection.
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Other Information to Know About Arruddaf Park in Taif
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arruddaf Park
- Visit on a weekday in the evening to see the fountain show without the large weekend crowds
- Take photos of the lake and gardens during the golden hour, just before sunset
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is so much walking to do within the park
- Carry a blanket, snacks and drinks for picnicking in the serene oasis
How to Reach Arruddaf Park:
By Air: Fly to Taif International Airport (TIF), formerly known as the Taif Regional Airport. Located 30 km east of Taif city, the airport is served regularly by airlines like flyadeal, Turkish Airlines, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, and flydubai. From the airport, use a taxi or a ride-hailing app service like Uber and Careem to reach Arruddaf Park in around 30 to 40 minutes.
By Road: Taif is well connected to other major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Jeddah, Makkah, and Riyadh. From Jeddah, it takes about 2 hours by car (approximately 170 km) via the Al Hada Mountain Road. Private taxis, intercity buses, and chauffeured cars are available in the city, facilitating easy commute to and from the park.
This comprehensive guide to Arruddaf Park will equip you with all the information required to plan a fantastic outing. From its stunning attractions to a wide array of recreational activities, Arruddaf Park offers pleasant experiences for all visitors. To make your travel even easier and better, consider booking your flight and hotels through Saudi Arabia tour packages from Regency Holidays.
FAQ’s - Arruddaf Park in Taif
Yes, Arruddaf Park is safe for solo travelers and families. Strong security presence and a family-friendly atmosphere of the park allows everyone to explore this serene space comfortably.
There is typically no entrance to Arruddaf Park, but some specific attractions or events inside may have separate charges.
Yes, you are required to dress modestly while visiting Arruddaf Park. Both men and women should opt for clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for a picnic at Arruddaf Park. However, there are many kiosks and cafes within the park, where you can buy delicious snacks.
Since public transport is limited in Taif, rental cars and ride-hailing services are the most convenient way to reach Arruddaf Park.
The best time to visit Arruddaf Park is during the cooler months, from October to April. The weather during these months is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.
Yes, Arruddaf Park has designated rooms and mosques for visitors to indulge in prayer amid a picnic day.
Public displays of affection are not customary in Arruddaf Park. Also, it is polite to accept any offer of hospitality, such as a cup of coffee.
