Taif Roses Achieve UNESCO Recognition And Generate SAR 64 Million In Investments

Taif roses, renowned for their petals and oils, have been recognised by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. These roses, found in the Al-Hada Mountains and nearby valleys, are a symbol of heritage and global beauty. Their cultural significance is profound, thanks to local efforts that have preserved traditional cultivation methods.

The Taif Rose thrives in its native environment, deeply connected to regional culture. Knowledge of cultivating and processing these roses has been passed down through generations. This includes harvesting, distilling, and extracting oil from the roses. The picturesque landscapes of Taif enhance this fragrant history.

Raddad Al-Talhi, a local farmer, shared insights with the Saudi Press Agency about the economic impact of Taif roses. He noted that rose cultivation has become a lucrative investment in Saudi Arabia, valued at over SAR64 million. The expansion of rose farms has contributed significantly to this growth.

Approximately 550 million roses are harvested each year from farms located in the Sarawat Mountains. In the Taif Governorate alone, there are over 910 farms dedicated to rose cultivation. These farms support around 70 factories that produce more than 80 different rose-derived products.

The traditional method of distilling Taif rose oil involves using copper pots. This technique speeds up the distillation process while ensuring high-quality results. The meticulous process yields various products such as regular rose water, concentrated rose water, and the world's most expensive rose oil.

Taif roses also hold cultural importance beyond their economic value. They play a role in religious practices like the annual washing of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. Despite modern advancements, many rose bushes and farms remain concentrated in their original mountainous locations.

The recognition by UNESCO highlights not only the cultural but also the civilizational impact of these roses. Their essence is etched into cultural heritage due to their unique fragrance and historical significance.

With inputs from SPA