Shada Palace

Description

A visit to the historic Shada Palace in Abha is a fantastic way for visitors to discover the beautiful traditional architecture of the Asir region. This well-known palace was built for a local Saudi governor, and is said to date back to 1927AD. It now houses a variety of fascinating local handicrafts, household items and more. The Shada Palace is also one of the very few traditional buildings left in Abha, making it a must-visit when in the city. Surrounded by modern architecture, this mud-walled tower itself is a great insight into Saudi Arabia’s past. Tourists must make it a point to climb up onto the roof of the palace to see the high walls which in ancient times gave the women of the housel hold some privacy. While here, visitors will also notice that the palace was built without any windows; also to ensure privacy.   

Ticket Price

Admission is free

Opening Hour

The palace is open from Saturday to Thursday; 9 am – 1 pm and 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Recommended Visit Duration

1 hour or until the whole palace has been toured

Suitable For

Adults, young adults, families, children  

Must See

The geometrically pattered walls, the rooftop with its high walls and the staircase leading to the sitting rooms and residential quarters

Prayer Facilities

There may not be a mosque or prayer room in the palace, but Muslim tourists will be able to easily locate a mosque in the area surrounding the palace. 

Halal Food

Muslims visiting any part of Saudi Arabia do not have to worry about locating Halal food; as all the restaurants in the Kingdom serve Halal food. Though there is no Halal restaurant in the Shada Palace, there are plenty of restaurants in Abha that serve Halal cuisine. These restaurants not only serve local cuisine, but are also known to serve Indian and Pakistani fare among others.