Why some pilgrims fly out of Taif
Jeddah isn't the only airport for people finishing Umrah in Makkah. Some travellers find a better flight from Taif International, whether for the timing, the destination, or because they want a day in Taif before heading home. Makkah to Taif is about 90 km via the Al Hada road, and the airport sits outside the city centre, so allow a little extra beyond that.
Umrah Taxi arranges a private car with a driver from your Makkah hotel door to the departures hall at Taif airport, at a fixed price for the whole car.
The road: from the valley up the mountain
The driver leaves the central area of Makkah, heads east and climbs the Al Hada road with its well-known hairpin bends up to the Taif plateau, where the air is noticeably cooler. It is a beautiful drive but one that calls for a driver who knows it, especially in the evening or when there is mist on the heights. When Al Hada is closed for maintenance, the driver uses the alternative route via Al Sail.
Planning your time
- Allow for leaving the central area, which depends heavily on prayer times.
- Add the mountain road and the run to the airport.
- Aim to reach the airport about three hours before an international flight and two before a domestic one.
Send us your flight time and hotel and we will suggest a pickup time.
Do I need ihram?
No ihram is needed when leaving Makkah for Taif. If you plan to return to Makkah later for another Umrah, the miqat for the Taif side is Qarn al-Manazil (As-Sayl Al-Kabir), and ihram can also be entered at Wadi Muhrim on the Al Hada road.
Fare
The fare from Makkah hotels to Taif airport is confirmed on WhatsApp, depending on your hotel and car class, and is fixed for the whole car. If you would rather visit Taif and come back to Makkah the same day, that round trip has a published fixed fare: SAR 400 by sedan, SAR 600 by family SUV and SAR 800 in VIP. See Makkah to Taif and the fare guide.
Choosing the car
| Travellers | Class |
|---|---|
| One or two with normal luggage | Sedan |
| A family with suitcases and Zamzam | Family SUV / van |
| Anyone wanting extra comfort on the mountain road | VIP |
Class details are on the fleet page.
Common questions
Can we stop at Al Hada or in Taif before the airport?
Yes, if there is enough time before your flight. Tell us when booking so it is built into the timing and price.
How long does the ride take?
It varies with traffic leaving Makkah and road conditions, so we build in a comfortable margin when setting your pickup.
Do you cover dawn flights?
Yes, we run around the clock. For rides around Taif generally, see Taif taxi.
How do I book?
On WhatsApp at +966551796487.