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The fort was built in 1933, in the reign of King Abdulaziz ibn Abdulrahman Al Saud, shortly after the unification of the kingdom. It was meant to be the seat of local government.
It stands on the highest point of the old town of Duba and overlooks the souk from the west. People and masons from Duba, al-Wajh and Yanbu built it.
At first, stones were brought by boat from the fort of al-Muwaylih and from the island of Burqan. Later, the materials came from local quarries, including limestone.
The plan is rectangular, around a large courtyard. Four corner towers, shaped as three-quarter circles, strengthen it. The main entrance, on the east side, bears a plaque: “Built in the reign of King Abdulaziz 1933”. There is a mosque on the north side. In 2022, the Heritage Commission listed it in the national register of built heritage.
What is certain and what is not
- Certain: built in 1933, foundation plaque, listed in the register in 2022 (Saudipedia).
- Certain: stones from the fort of al-Muwaylih were used in the building work (Saudipedia).
- Uncertain: some sources give 1932 instead of 1933.
- To check on site: access to the interior and opening hours.
- Saudipedia (English), King Abdulaziz Castle in Duba: https://saudipedia.com/en/king-abdulaziz-castle-in-duba
- Sabq, listing in the national register (7 March 2022): https://sabq.org/article/G6DyEiC