Taifs

Taifs is the demonym used to refer to the residents of Taif, a city in Mecca Province, western Saudi Arabia. Taif lies in the Sarawat Mountain range at about 1,700 meters above sea level, a position that gives the city a milder climate than the lowland coast.

Economy and culture: The city has an agricultural base, with fruit orchards and grape production. It is famous for Taif roses, cultivated for essential oil and rose water used in perfumery and cuisine. Tourism also centers on the cooler climate, surrounding mountains, and historical sites.

History and administration: Taif has ancient roots and historically functioned as a seasonal market and agricultural hub in western Arabia. In the 20th century it became part of the modern Saudi state and serves as a regional administrative and cultural center.

Transportation and demographics: The city serves as a regional hub with a growing population. It is connected by road to Jeddah and Mecca and is served by Ta'if Regional Airport.

Notes: The spelling Taifs may be used to denote its inhabitants; alternate spellings such as Taifi exist. The term taifa (plural taifas) refers to medieval independent Muslim-ruled principalities in al-Andalus, a different historical context.