Souq Ukaz

One of the great markets of pre-Islamic Arabia, north-east of Ta'if, now revived as a heritage festival site.

History and Seerah

Ibn Abbas said that Dhul-Majaz and Ukaz were the people's markets before Islam; when Islam came the Muslims disliked trading in them during Hajj until Allah revealed: "There is no blame on you for seeking the bounty of your Lord" (Bukhari 1770, Quran 2:198). The Sirah reports that the Prophet ﷺ invited the tribes to Islam at the seasonal gatherings of these markets.

Visitor tips

About 40 km from Ta'if city. The site hosts a cultural festival in summer; check opening times before going.