More than 1,500 years ago, Arabs gathered in a single market every year — the Okaz Market. A place where merchants, poets, and knights came from all directions. Today, life has returned to this historic market after a hiatus of more than 1,300 years. If you love heritage and old atmospheres, this place is a must-visit.
Who is it for: Families, tourists, heritage and literature lovers
Where: North of Taif — 40 km from the city center
Cost: Free entry
When: The annual festival is held in December/January, and the site is open for visits year-round
💡 Tip: The original site is the same place where the market was before Islam, revived during the reign of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz
Historical Background
Okaz Market is one of the most famous 3 markets of the pre-Islamic era, alongside Majna and Dhul Majaz. Its origins date back to 501 AD — meaning it’s over 1,500 years old! Arabs gathered there for 20 days every year during the month of Dhul-Qa’dah.
It wasn’t just a commercial market — it was a literary, cultural, and political forum. Poets recited their poems, knights competed, and tribes made agreements. Here, the famous Mu’allaqat were recited, and Arabs sought the judgment of wise men like Amir bin al-Zharb al-Adwani and Aktham bin Saif al-Tamimi.
After Islam, the market continued for a while before disappearing. But in 1428 AH (2007), the state decided to revive it as an annual heritage festival in the same location.
Location and How to Get There
Okaz Market is located north of Taif, about 40 kilometers from the city center. On the road to Riyadh — to the right. Coordinates: 21.4738° N, 40.6461° E.
From Mecca: The distance is about 120 km — 1.5 hours by car.
From Riyadh: The distance is long — about 800 km (7-8 hours).
Nearest airport: Taif Regional Airport (TIF) — 45 km from the market.
Activities and Events
Okaz Market is not just a festival — it’s a complete experience. Here are the main activities you can expect:
- Poetic Evenings: Competitions in classical and popular poetry — valuable prizes for winners
- Heritage Shows: Historical performances that recreate life in the pre-Islamic era and early Islam
- Craft Exhibitions: Handmade products — palm weaving, pottery, carpets, leather goods
- Literary Dome: Seminars and lectures with writers and thinkers from the Arab world
- Competitions: Short stories, photography, drawing
- Popular Restaurants: Traditional Saudi and Arab dishes — don’t miss the coffee and dates
- Product Market: Perfumes, incense, traditional clothing, souvenirs
Annual Festival Schedule
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| When is it held | Annually — usually December and January, for 10-15 days |
| Visiting Hours | From 4 PM to 11 PM |
| Admission Fees | Free |
| Activities | Daily — Poetry, Heritage, Shows, Exhibitions |
| Parking | Available and Spacious |
| Family-Friendly | Yes ✅ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Souk Okaz open year-round or only during the festival?
A: The site itself is open for visits year-round. However, major events and the annual festival have a specific schedule (December and January). On regular days, you can visit the site and see the landmarks.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission is free whether during the festival or on regular days. Some special activities or workshops may have a small fee.
Q: What is the best time to visit Souk Okaz?
A: The best time is during the annual festival (December-January), as the activities are in full swing and the weather in Taif is pleasant. However, even outside the festival, the place is worth visiting, especially for history enthusiasts.
Souk Okaz is not just a tourist attraction — it is a journey through time spanning over 1,500 years. It combines heritage, literature, and arts in one place. If you are in Taif or planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, don’t miss this unique experience.
