Taif, Saudi Arabia — Al-Shafa Center in Taif has emerged as a leading destination in Saudi Arabia’s mountain tourism economy. Located in the Sarawat mountain range, it combines natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainable rural development. This high-altitude area features natural springs, fog-wrapped peaks, and year-round mild weather that draws steady domestic and regional tourism flows.
The local tourism sector in Al-Shafa contributes to the broader economic development of Taif. Over the past decade, it has attracted investments in hotels, eco-resorts, and rural housing aligned with international sustainability standards. These projects offer more than lodging—they serve as platforms for cultural exchange, enabling visitors to engage with the community’s agricultural and artisanal heritage.
Ecotourism and Agricultural Livelihoods
Al-Shafa’s terrain supports a unique rural economy shaped by centuries-old practices. Local residents continue to rely on farming, sheep rearing, and honey production. Fruit harvests and rose oil extraction—especially the famed Taif rose—remain central to the community’s output. These products contribute to both the local economy and the national push for authentic, natural Saudi goods.
Importantly, Al-Shafa’s development has fostered economic self-reliance. Many residents produce and market traditional goods such as herbal oils, dried fruits, and locally harvested honey. These industries support family-run enterprises that embody sustainable and community-led economic models.
Cultural Assets and Generational Transfer
Tourism in Al-Shafa is not purely environmental—it is also cultural. Visitors experience warm hospitality rooted in Hijazi customs. Traditional practices are actively preserved, including storytelling, local crafts, and seasonal food preparation. These customs reinforce a distinct regional identity that sets Al-Shafa apart within the Kingdom’s broader tourism landscape.
New initiatives led by younger community members have amplified this cultural offering. They’ve created guided tours, published bilingual brochures, and introduced a booklet titled Culture of the Community Linked to Cultural and Recreational Tourism. These efforts aim to build global awareness of Al-Shafa’s tourism value while inviting broader participation in its rural economy.
Saudi Standard’s View: Al-Shafa as a Model for Community-Led Ecotourism
Al-Shafa’s trajectory exemplifies a localized model of ecotourism that aligns with Vision 2030. Its economic growth is rooted in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and community participation. The region stands as a case study in how sustainable tourism can promote both heritage and self-reliance without compromising ecological integrity.
As Saudi Arabia expands its tourism offerings beyond urban centers, Al-Shafa offers lessons in how natural capital, when linked with cultural authenticity and local governance, can serve as a durable economic asset.
