TAIF: The traditional practice of Taasheer remains one of the most distinctive rituals associated with the cultivation of Taif roses, taking place during the blooming and harvest seasons.
The tradition reflects the region’s deep-rooted cultural identity, with Taif among Saudi Arabia’s leading centers for the cultivation of fragrant roses, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The SPA observed the continued presence of this tradition across several rose farms in Taif, where rhythmic chants and collective singing echo through the fields as roses are picked.
The scene highlights a strong spirit of cooperation among farmers, adding a social dimension to the work and blending agricultural activity with longstanding traditions.
Rose farmer Ghazi Al-Namri said that Taasheer had evolved beyond mere vocal or physical expression to become a symbol of the profession’s identity.
It helped to boost morale and motivation during the demanding harvest season, while being passed down through generations and preserving its enduring presence.
Al-Namri added that the practice also featured a dynamic rhythmic performance with the traditional Al-Maqmaa rifle, in which participants executed precise movements and patterns that required considerable skill.
He said that the performance relied on traditional gunpowder, carefully prepared through specific steps, including packing and ignition with a brass piece known as a “zard.”
Al-Namri said that this heritage tradition had also enhanced the tourism appeal of Taif’s rose farms, attracting visitors eager to witness the harvest firsthand, explore the details of these rituals, and to experience the authentic atmosphere that reflects the region’s cultural legacy.
Taif governorate is home to more than 910 farms, comprising around 1.14 million rose shrubs, which produce about 550 million roses annually during a season lasting roughly 45 days.
Rose farms are spread across the highlands of Al-Hada and Al-Shafa, between the slopes of the Sarawat Mountains, in a natural setting characterized by moderate temperatures and abundant water, with fertile valleys that create an ideal environment for Taif roses.
Farmer Khalaf Jaber Al-Tuwairqi said that moderate weather and the availability of irrigation sources contributed to increased flower density and quality this season, positively impacting harvesting and production.
He said that farms produced thousands of roses daily during peak periods, with 12,000 roses required to produce one unit of rose oil, one of the world’s most precious aromatic oils.
Tourism guide Abdullah Al-Zahrani said that abundant rose production had boosted tourism activity in Taif, as rose farms in Al-Hada and Al-Shafa attracted growing numbers of visitors during the harvest season to witness harvesting and distillation stages and learn about this traditional craft, which forms part of the governorate’s agricultural identity.
