RIYADH, March 27 (NNN-BSS) — As the sun sets behind Al-Shafa Mountain, painting Taif’s rose fields in golden hues, Saudi Arabia’s “Umrah Plus” initiative unveils a new dimension of spiritual travel, placing the “City of Roses” at the heart of an enriched pilgrimage experience.
The “Umrah Plus” program is a strategic initiative designed to enhance the traditional Umrah pilgrimage by blending religious rites with cultural, historical, and leisure explorations across Saudi Arabia.
The program aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy and promote the nation as a global tourism hub.
“Under this vision, the Saudi government launched the Pilgrim Experience Program to ease visa procedures and expand infrastructure, targeting 15 million international Umrah pilgrims annually by 2025 and 30 million by 2030,” Robayan Mohammed Alrobayan, Media Manager of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) told BSS.
The STA has also developed initiatives encouraging pilgrims to visit Islamic historical sites and experience Saudi heritage, while enhancing service quality to ensure a seamless, spiritually enriching journey.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in infrastructure and hospitality to ensure a smooth journey for pilgrims under the Umrah Plus program.
Participants can expect efficient transport services, comfortable accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, and knowledgeable guides offering insights into local culture and history.
“The Umrah Plus initiative is more than just a tourism program — it is a bridge between faith and discovery, offering pilgrims a chance to embrace Saudi Arabia’s vibrant culture,” Alrobayan added.
Nestled in the cool embrace of the Sarawat Mountains, Taif offers a refreshing retreat from the desert heat, boasting lush landscapes and a rich tapestry of history.
As part of the Umrah Plus experience, visitors can explore Taif’s diverse attractions, each unveiling a unique facet of Saudi culture.
Al-Shafa Mountain: Rising over 2,500 meters above sea level, Al-Shafa Mountain offers awe-inspiring views often shrouded in white fog, surrounded by the aromatic scent of juniper trees.
At night, visitors gather around fires, sipping tea and savoring grilled corn under moonlit skies. Families enjoy barbecues, while food caravans offer local and international delicacies.
Al-Hada Mountain: Famous for its winding roads and scenic cable car rides, Al-Hada is a playground for adventure seekers. The Al-Kar Tourist Village features thrilling attractions like water games and a “flying carpet” ride that glides between mountain slopes.
Wahba Crater: About 250 kilometers from Taif lies the vast volcanic marvel of Wahba Crater. Its shimmering salt dome glistens under the sun, and during the rainy season, the crater transforms into a lush, green sanctuary.
The Roses of Taif: Each spring, Taif’s rose fields burst into bloom, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. Visitors can tour local factories to witness the delicate process of crafting rose water and perfumes — prized worldwide for their exquisite quality.
“By intertwining spiritual fulfillment with cultural tourism, Umrah Plus offers pilgrims a chance to explore Saudi Arabia beyond the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah — and Taif stands out as a jewel in this initiative,” said Emad M. Kashmiri, CEO of Hamza Camel Tours, a prominent Saudi tour operator renowned for catering to foreign visitors.
As the Kingdom opens its doors wider to the world, Taif shines as a symbol of Saudi hospitality, natural beauty, and cultural richness, he added. — NNN-BSS
