Ta’if Regional Airport (TIF)

Ta'if International Airport (IATA: TIF, ICAO: OETF) is a strategically located airport serving the historic city of Ta'if in Saudi Arabia's Mecca Region. Positioned 30 kilometers east of Ta'if and 70 kilometers from Mecca, the airport serves as an important gateway for both religious tourism and business travelers visiting the Western region of the Kingdom. Originally constructed in 1947 for King Abdulaziz's first aircraft landing, the facility has evolved from a simple airstrip into a modern regional hub that was designated as an international airport in 2009 to accommodate growing passenger demand and reduce pressure on the Kingdom's three major airports. The airport operates dual 12,254-foot runways designated 07/25 and 17/35, positioned at an elevation of 4,848 feet above sea level, making it one of Saudi Arabia's higher-altitude airports. These substantial runway specifications enable the facility to handle a wide range of aircraft types, from regional jets to larger wide-body aircraft used by international carriers. The airport's location within the Jeddah Flight Information Region ensures seamless air traffic coordination across the western Saudi Arabian airspace. The modern terminal building provides essential amenities for passenger comfort and convenience, including dedicated prayer areas reflecting the airport's proximity to Islam's holiest sites, multiple dining establishments offering local and international cuisine, and comprehensive commercial banking services with ATM facilities. The terminal features air-conditioned waiting areas designed to accommodate the region's climate, along with ground transportation coordination services for onward travel to Mecca, Medina, and other regional destinations. Ta'if International Airport serves both civilian and military operations, hosting airlines including Saudia, Qatar Airways, flydubai, and other regional carriers that connect Ta'if to major Middle Eastern hubs and domestic destinations. The facility's dual-use nature requires coordinated scheduling between civilian flights and military operations, though this arrangement enhances the airport's overall security infrastructure. Secure vehicle parking facilities are available for travelers, with shuttle services connecting the terminal to various parking areas and ground transportation options including taxis, buses, and car rental services for exploring the Ta'if region and surrounding mountain areas.