مقهى اليت

If you're looking for a place where modern style meets traditional hospitality, you should definitely check out Cafe Al-Yat (Maqeh Al-Itt). Located in the Al Faisaliyyah district of Taif, this popular spot is rightly considered one of the coziest places to relax for both locals and travelers visiting Saudi Arabia.

Al Yat Cafe. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The establishment is a stylish space classified as a cafe-bar, where the main focus is on comfort and aesthetics. With a 4.5-star rating and hundreds of positive reviews, it attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and convenient location near the airport. There is no hustle and bustle here, but rather plenty of soft light, comfortable sofas, and cozy areas for conversation.

The main feature of this place is its organic integration into the landscape of mountainous Taif. From the windows and terraces, you can occasionally catch views of the majestic surroundings, while the city's cool climate makes relaxing here especially pleasant. On the menu, you'll find authentic Saudi coffee, fragrant teas, and fresh juices made from famous local fruits.

To clarify details or book a table (though walk-ins are most common), you can use the cafe's contact information.

Below is the basic contact info and the exact address for your navigator:

A visit to this establishment is primarily a ritual of relaxation. We recommend starting with an Arabic coffee with cardamom or a signature tea, which pair perfectly with traditional Oriental sweets like Turkish delight or honey-based desserts. For those who prefer something more refreshing, they serve amazing juices made from the pomegranates and famous roses that Taif is so well known for.

Aesthetic content lovers should pay attention to the interiors: neon lighting and modern design solutions provide an excellent backdrop for photos. In the evening, the cafe fills with a special energy—young people and families gather here, calm music plays, and shisha can be ordered in designated areas to spend time in leisurely conversation.

Thanks to its 24-hour operation, you can stop by even late at night to enjoy the cool air and city lights. The staff is known for their friendliness and is always ready to suggest which local delicacy is worth trying today, helping guests dive deeper into the atmosphere of Saudi hospitality.

Its convenient location on Airport Road makes this establishment easily accessible for those who have just arrived in the city or are preparing for a flight. If you are coming from the central part of Taif, the ride by taxi or rental car will take about 20–30 minutes. The most comfortable way to get around Saudi Arabia remains using services like Uber or Careem; the trip usually costs between 20 and 50 Saudi riyals.

For travelers coming from Jeddah, the journey takes approximately 2 hours via Route 15. Follow the signs for Taif Airport and then turn into the Al Faisaliyyah district. For those who prefer public transport, there are bus routes to the airport, from which the cafe is a 5–10 minute walk.

If you are traveling by private car, a nice bonus is the availability of free parking right at the establishment. During the day, we recommend using air-conditioned transport, as the sun can be quite intense despite the region's mild climate.

Although Cafe Al-Yat (also known as Maqeh Al-Itt) cannot boast a centuries-old history, it is a striking representative of the modern gastronomic culture that has been actively developing in Saudi Arabia over the last decade. The establishment opened in the 2010s and quickly became a popular spot in the Al Faisaliyyah district thanks to its prime location and high level of service.

The cafe's location in the city of Taif is symbolic: this city has historically been considered the summer capital of the kingdom. Since the days of the Ottoman Empire, rulers and noble families have chosen these parts for relaxation due to the cool mountain climate and abundant greenery. Cafe Al-Yat continues the tradition of Arabic hospitality, transforming classic "majlis" (reception halls) into modern spaces with neon lighting and comfortable furniture.

Interestingly, the development of this establishment has gone hand-in-hand with the growth of the region's tourism appeal, famous for its rose plantations. Thus, the cafe has become an important link in the evolution of local tea and coffee houses, offering visitors a new level of comfort while maintaining a traditional focus on quality coffee and leisurely conversation.

For a standard visit to this establishment, 1 to 2 hours is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy traditional drinks, try local desserts, and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere.

If you are planning a visit with a large group, want to arrange a full photo shoot in the stylish interiors, or plan to order shisha, your visit may extend to 3 hours. The place is perfect for both a short break before heading to the airport and a long evening of relaxation.

One of the cafe's main features is its operating schedule, allowing guests to drop by at almost any time of day. For most of the week, the establishment operates 24/7, making it an ideal spot for a late-night snack or early breakfast.

Please note the schedule for Friday: on this day, the cafe has a short break. The doors are open from 00:00 to 05:00, followed by a break for prayers, and the venue welcomes guests again from 13:00 until midnight. On all other days—Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday—the cafe is open around the clock.

The cafe's location allows you to easily combine a coffee break with active leisure. The surrounding area is rich in entertainment centers that will be of particular interest to families with children and fans of active recreation.

Exploring nearby locations will help you get a better feel for the city's modern rhythm and find entertainment for every taste. Below is a list of interesting places nearby: