Murabba Historical Palace

Murabba Historical Palace, constructed in 1938 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, is a prominent cultural landmark in Riyadh. It is situated 2 km from the old city of Riyadh and was built to facilitate the expansion of the city. The palace reflects Najdi architecture, with wooden beams and mud-brick walls, and a large central courtyard for natural ventilation. The building has two floors with several rooms, such as reception halls, administrative offices, and residential areas for the king and his family. The design is an amalgamation of the traditional building style of the region and modern features for its time. Now a part of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, it contains artifacts, documents, and photographs of King Abdulaziz's period, providing guests with a glimpse into the kingdom's early years and rule. The palace serves as a reflection of Saudi Arabia's evolution from a desert kingdom to a modern state.

How to get there

• By Air: Fly into King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh and take a taxi to Murabba Historical Palace. The airport is about 40 km (25 miles) from Murabba Historical Palace.
• By Taxi: Take a taxi from anywhere in Riyadh it takes around 30–40 minutes to reach Murabba Historical Palace.

Timings and Tickets

Opening hours 

• Monday to Thursday: 9:00AM-5:00PM
• Friday-Saturday: 5:00PM-8:00PM
• Sunday-Closed
• Entry Fee: Entry Free (No ticket is required).

Things to do

• Visit the Palace Museum: Visit the palace museum to view royal artifacts and historical displays.
• Walk Through the Gardens: Walk through the immaculately landscaped gardens for a peaceful experience.
• See the Car Gallery: See the classic car gallery to view vintage cars used by the royal family.
• Relax in the Courtyard: Relax in the large courtyard and view traditional Najdean architecture.
• Visit the National Museum: Learn Saudi Arabia's heritage at the close-by National Museum.
• Explore the King Abdulaziz Public Library: Check out rare manuscripts and books at the King Abdulaziz Public Library.

Travel tips

• Check out the palace's opening hours beforehand, as these can change.
• Visit in the morning to dodge crowds and midday sun.
• Take photos of the breathtaking architecture and historic exhibits.
• Learn more about King Abdulaziz's legacy for additional context.
• Visit the King Abdulaziz Library and National Museum.
• Comply with museum rules, such as no photographs in some parts.

Interesting fact

• The 1,680 square meter palace carries the memories of the past events and the legacy established on its ground.
• It is a reminder of Riyadh's history and how it evolved over time.
• Constructed in Najdi traditional architecture, it consists of mud-brick walls, wooden beams, and a ventilation courtyard in the middle.
• The palace has 32 rooms over two floors, including reception halls for visitors and administrative offices for the king's aides and guards.

FAQs

What is Murabba Historical Palace?

Murabba Historical Palace is a Riyadh historical and cultural monument constructed by King Abdulaziz in the 1930s as his residence and seat of government.

Where is Murabba Historical Palace?

The palace is situated within the Al Murabba region of Riyadh, close to the King Abdulaziz Historical Center.

Is there an admission charge to tour the palace?

Admission charges, if any, are subject to prevailing policies, so it's best to inquire with the palace authorities.

What can one see within the palace?

One can see royal residential areas, Najdi traditional architecture, a collection of vintage cars, historical displays, and a lovely courtyard.

Are there guided tours?

Yes, guided tours are usually available to offer greater insights into the history and importance of the palace.

Are there any surrounding attractions to visit?

Yes, tourists can walk around the National Museum, King Abdulaziz Public Library, and the scenic gardens around the palace.