Top 10 Activities at Souk Okaz in Taif
Souk Okaz in Taif is a traditional market dating back to the 6th century AD, located in the city of Taif in Saudi Arabia. It is one of the most famous and oldest traditional markets in Saudi Arabia and the Arab region in general.
The market serves as a hub for trading livestock, sheep, agricultural tools, handicrafts, food products, and various other items. Souk Okaz is renowned for its cultural and entertainment activities, hosting an annual book fair, art and cultural exhibitions, sports events, and folk concerts. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of this historic market.
Location of Souk Okaz in Taif
Souk Okaz is located in the city of Taif, Saudi Arabia, specifically in the Eastern Rabwa district of Taif. The market covers an area of over 260,000 square meters, with the historical area, including old buildings and pathways, spanning around 25,000 square meters. Souk Okaz can be accessed via several main roads in the city of Taif.
Top 10 Activities at Souk Okaz in Taif
Souk Okaz in Taif is one of the most important traditional markets in Saudi Arabia, offering a variety of activities and events for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top activities:
- Visit the Book Fair: Souk Okaz hosts an annual book fair that attracts many visitors from across the kingdom. The fair showcases bestsellers and the latest Arabic and foreign publications across various fields.
- Watch Cultural and Entertainment Shows: The market features numerous cultural, artistic, and entertainment shows, such as fashion shows, plays, children's entertainment activities, and more, running throughout the market period.
- Shopping: Visitors can enjoy shopping for various handcrafted and traditional products, popular foods, as well as agricultural tools and live animals like sheep and livestock.
- Try Traditional Foods: Souk Okaz is an ideal place to try traditional Saudi and Arab foods. Visitors can enjoy famous dishes such as kabsa, mandi, grilled meats, and traditional sweets.
- Watch Horse Shows: Souk Okaz offers special entertainment activities featuring horses. Visitors can watch horse and camel shows and enjoy horse riding tours in the area.
- Arab Civilization Event: The market is known for hosting the Arab Civilization Event, a historical and cultural event that takes place during the market period. It revives ancient Arab life, activities, and industries, presenting cultural and entertainment events reflecting the heritage of Arab civilization.
- Enjoy Nature and Mountains: Souk Okaz boasts a beautiful location in Taif amidst the mountains. Visitors can enjoy the stunning nature, mountain walks, and the refreshing natural ambiance.
- Visit Archaeological Sites: The Souk Okaz area in Taif features numerous archaeological and historical sites, such as Shubra Palace. Visitors can explore these sites and delve into ancient history and civilization.
- Enjoy Folk Singing: The market hosts folk singing performances, where visitors can enjoy traditional singing and dancing.
- Socialize: Souk Okaz in Taif is an ideal place to interact with others and enjoy a friendly social atmosphere. Visitors can learn about different cultures and share experiences and knowledge.
Hotels Near Souk Okaz in Taif
Several hotels are located near Souk Okaz in Taif, including:
Rawah Residential Units
Located about 8 minutes from Souk Okaz, it is known for its cleanliness and excellent service, with well-equipped rooms.
Neras Hotel Chalets
Situated in the small village of Sail, about 29 km from Al Hada. It features a beautiful garden and offers free Wi-Fi.
Al Saad Chalets in Taif
Approximately 31 km from Jouri Mall and 32 km from Saisad National Park, it offers air-conditioned accommodations with a garden that includes a terrace with a stunning view.
Villar Inn Hotel
Located in Taif city, about 24 km from Jouri Mall, it offers a fitness center, restaurant, bar, and free parking.
Other accommodation options are also available in Taif, and visitors can search for other hotels, motels, and serviced apartments in the area according to their budget and needs.
Top Landmarks of Souk Okaz
Souk Okaz in Taif is an important archaeological and historical landmark in Saudi Arabia, featuring several notable places and landmarks:
- Theater: One of the main landmarks in Souk Okaz, where various artistic, cultural, and literary performances take place. The theater hosts a variety of activities and events.
- Traders’ Market: A significant part of Souk Okaz, where visitors can enjoy shopping and buying local products available in the area.
- Craftsmen: Craftsmen represent an essential part of local heritage and culture, showcasing handmade crafts and traditional industrial products. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work creating their products.
- Food and Beverage Area: Known for offering traditional and local foods and beverages, visitors can enjoy meals in the restaurants and cafes located in the area.
- Cultural and Artistic Areas: Souk Okaz in Taif includes many cultural and artistic areas where visitors can learn about local culture and participate in various cultural and artistic events.
Overall, Souk Okaz in Taif offers numerous archaeological, historical, and cultural landmarks that make it an important tourist destination in Saudi Arabia.
Restaurants in Taif
Souk Okaz in Taif offers many restaurants serving traditional and popular foods, including:
The Revolving Restaurant
Located in Taif Tower with a stunning view through glass facades. The restaurant offers Western, Eastern, and international meals, along with delicious appetizers and beverages.
Buffalo Wings & Rings Restaurant
One of the most famous restaurants serving American dishes, offering a diverse menu including grilled meats and burgers.
Divan Dawan Turkish Restaurant
Specializing in traditional Turkish dishes as well as Eastern dishes, suitable for families and individuals, known for its value for money.
Kinda Restaurant
One of the best restaurants in Taif, known for its unique Eastern dishes. The restaurant features a modern and elegant design, suitable for families, individuals, and business meetings.
Must-Visit Places in Souk Okaz
Souk Okaz in Taif features many attractive landmarks and places that visitors should see, including:
- Display Square: A large square where artistic, heritage, theatrical, and literary shows are organized during the market period.
- Food Products Square: A square housing many shops offering popular foods, sweets, and traditional Arab beverages.
- Handicrafts Square: A square featuring many shops offering handicrafts, antiques, and artistic products.
- Poetry Evenings Theater: A theater dedicated to traditional poetry performances and poetry evenings held in Souk Okaz.
- Outdoor Food Area: An area featuring many shops offering fast and international foods, such as East Asian, Italian, and American cuisines.
- Taif Historical Museum: Located in Souk Okaz, it houses many artifacts and historical and heritage items dating back to ancient Taif.
Okaz Market is an excellent destination to immerse yourself in Saudi history and culture, offering a unique and enjoyable entertainment experience in Taif. If you're interested in visiting, WINGIE will provide you with the best prices to book your flight to Taif.
