Task-based approach is commonly used in second language teaching and it has been adopted in translation teaching too. However, driven by the lack of studies on task-based approach in translation especially in the very early stages of teaching translation, Saudi universities are no exception, this study focuses on the significance of implementing this approach in teaching the first practical translation course in a translation academic programme. It mainly examines the development of translation competence through task-based approach. A case study at English language department in Jouf University has been carried out where 39 students were taught using this method in their first practical translation course. Li's (2013) customized model, namely task-based teaching in translation, is adopted here and the tasks were specifically selected to develop students' translation competence in general and their bilingual competence in particular. The results drawn from this study found tangible development of students' translation competence as well as bilingual competence.