Saudi pushes ahead with plans to turn Taif into summer resort

Makkah governor Prince Khaled Al-Faisal has directed government agencies and representatives to implement projects designed to turn Taif into a summer resort.

Officials are hoping to enhance tourism in the ‘city of roses’, which is known for its orchards, greenery and ruins.

Development projects in and around the city include a new international airport, the development of a tourism hub valley at Al-shifa and Al-Hada, the historic city centre of Taif, Souk Okaz City and the enhancing of archaeological sites, according to Saudi Gazette.

Prince Khaled instructed for a new working team to oversee the projects led by Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Mokhrij, mayor of Taif

An integration centre led by adviser Saad bin Mohammed Mariq will also be established.

Reports at the end of last year suggested work on the long delayed airport would begin within the opening months of 2017.

Read: Work on Saudi’s Taif International Airport to begin next year

Under the kingdom’s Vision 2030 plans it aims to increase the hospitality industry by more than half and attract 1.5 million tourists by 2020.

Read: Saudi Vision 2030 aims to double tourism sector by 2020