How to Get to Taif. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Major Airports & Flights

Airports Serving Taif

Taif Regional Airport (TIF) is the closest, handling domestic and some international routes. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah is the main international gateway, approximately 170 km west of Taif.

Direct Flight Options

Most direct international flights from global hubs arrive at JED or Riyadh (RUH).
From this group, a domestic flight to TIF or land transport is needed.
Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Medina is more indirect for Taif.

Airlines & Routes

TIF serves Saudia, Flynas, Air Arabia, EgyptAir, and Flydubai, connecting to domestic cities and regional hubs like Dubai, Cairo, and Sharjah. JED is served by major international airlines globally, including Saudia, Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, and more.

Seasonal & Pricing

Higher prices/reduced availability during Hajj, Umrah, Eid holidays, and peak summer.
Booking flights well in advance is advisable for better rates.
Consider services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities

TIF offers basic facilities: car rental desks, taxi services, shops, cafes. JED is large, modern with lounges, duty-free, diverse restaurants.

Transfers from TIF

Taxis are readily available. Ride-sharing (Careem, Uber) services may operate for convenient, app-based booking.

Transfers from JED

Longer journey (2-3 hours). Taxis (negotiate fare/metered), Ride-sharing (Careem, Uber), private transfers, or SAPTCO inter-city bus (from Jeddah bus station).

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Buses

No direct train assistance to Taif. Haramain High-Speed Railway links Mecca, Medina, Jeddah.
SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) has an extensive network.
Regular, affordable, and comfortable bus services connect Taif with large cities.
Book SAPTCO tickets in advance, specifically during holidays.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Requirements: Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driver's license, credit card.
Car Rental: Global brands (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Sixt) and local agencies operate.
Roads: Well-maintained, good condition. Mountain roads are winding but paved.
Safety: Drive on the right, adhere to speed limits. Watch for aggressive road behavior and animal crossings.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland City

Taif is an inland city, so sea or river arrivals are not direct options.

Jeddah Seaport

Jeddah, on the Red Sea, serves as a port of call for particular cruise companies. From Jeddah, onward land travel is needed.

Land Connections

From Jeddah's seaport, taxis, Ride-sharing apps (Careem, Uber), or private transfers can take you to Taif.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No particular departure fees or taxes are applicable to departing tourists from Saudi Arabia; these costs are usually included in airfare. For flights abroad from TIF or JED, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure.

Departure Timing

Domestic Flights: From TIF, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Peak Times: Add an extra 30-60 minutes during Hajj, Umrah, Eid holidays.
Allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, security, and immigration.

Airport & Station Services

Taif Regional Airport (TIF) offers standard facilities: check-in, baggage drop, security, shops, cafes, waiting areas.

SAPTCO Bus Station

SAPTCO stations offer waiting areas, ticket counters, plus boutiques/cafes.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled bus departure.
Have your ticket and ID ready for check-in procedures.

Road Travel Safety

Roads within Taif and connecting to other metropolises are of good quality. The winding roads in the Al Hada and Al Shafa areas require careful driving. Watch for sharp curves and occasional fog, specifically at higher altitudes.

Driving Habits & Animals

Be cautious of aggressive driving habits by some local drivers.
On rural roads, be aware of potential animal crossings (camels, goats, baboons).
Speed limits are strictly enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory. Mobile phone use is illegal.

Airport Transfer Tips

Taxis are readily available outside airport terminals. Ride-sharing services like Careem and Uber operate from airports, offering transparent pricing and app-based booking for convenience.

Pre-booking & Options

Pre-book private transfers through your hotel or local tour operator for a direct ride.
For budget travel, consider SAPTCO inter-city bus services, but factor in travel to the bus station.
Always confirm transfer details and costs before your journey.

Recommended Flight Resources

Dollar Flight Club

Find cheap flight deals and notifications for international and domestic routes.

Skyscanner

Compare flight prices from various airlines to find the best options.

AirHelp

Get assistance with flight delay or cancellation compensation.

Departure Reminder

For a stress-free departure, always plan to arrive at the airport with ample time before your scheduled flight.

How to Get to Taif