Upper station views
Top of Al Hada
Wide views over the escarpment before you board.
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Taif, Saudi Arabia
Al Hada Cable Car
A cable car that drops from the top of Al Hada down the cliffs to Al Kar village, with wide views of the escarpment. Operation varies, so check before going.
Favourite places
The ride
Al Hada escarpment
Over the cliffs and valleys of the Sarawat mountains.
Open in Google Maps (opens in a new tab)Al Kar village
Bottom station
Gardens and leisure facilities in the valley below.
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Local food
Taif pomegranates
Taif, Saudi Arabia
Taif is known across Saudi Arabia for its fruit grown in the mountain farms — pomegranates above all, plus grapes, figs and prickly pears in season. Roadside stalls sell them fresh and as juice.
Saudi coffee (qahwa) with dates
Taif, Saudi Arabia
Lightly roasted coffee spiced with cardamom (often saffron or cloves too), poured in small cups and always served with dates. Offering it is the heart of Saudi hospitality.
Where to eat
Al Kar village
Bottom station
Cafés and snacks in the village when it is open.
Open in Google Maps (opens in a new tab)Al Hada viewpoint stalls
Top of Al Hada
Tea, corn and fruit at the roadside.
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Where to stay
Al Hada
Taif, Saudi Arabia
Resorts and chalets on the mountain on the Makkah side of Taif — cooler air and views, close to the cable car and viewpoints.
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Taif, Saudi Arabia
Hotels and apartments near the old souq and the main roads, practical for the museums and markets and for the drive to Al Hada and Al Shafa.
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Culture
A family attraction: expect children and family groups, especially on weekends. Dress modestly.
History
The cable car (teleferic) was built to connect the top of Al Hada with Al Kar tourist village in the valley below, giving visitors a ride over the steep slopes of the Sarawat escarpment. The ride takes in the rugged cliffs, the winding road and the plains beyond.
Al Kar at the bottom has gardens and leisure facilities for families.
Tour plans
Cable car outing
2–3 hoursStep 1: Check it is running
Confirm operation that day.
Step 2: Ride down
Enjoy the views over the escarpment.
Step 3: Al Kar
Walk the village gardens, then ride back up.
Travel information
Best time to visit
Clear days in spring, summer and autumn; late afternoon for soft light. Subject to operation and weather.
How to get there
The upper station is at Al Hada, about 20–25 km west of central Taif. Drive or take a ride-hailing car.
Getting around
Ride the cable car between the upper station and Al Kar; car parking at the top.
Travel tips
- The cable car is subject to operation — it may close for maintenance, weather or season. Check locally or with your hotel before driving up.
- Wind can stop the ride; bring patience on breezy days.
- Not ideal for those afraid of heights.