King Abdulaziz – may his soul rest in peace – spent part of his working life in this palace, using it as an official diwan where he received state guests, senior officials, and members of the public.
The palace represents an architectural style characteristic of early Jeddah during a formative period of urban and artistic development linked to the political and administrative foundations of the Saudi state.
Historic Oil Concession Agreement
A major historical event took place within its walls: the signing of the oil concession agreement between the Saudi government—represented by His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Al‑Sulayman on behalf of King Abdulaziz—and the Standard Oil Company of California, represented by Mr. Lloyd Hamilton, on 4 Safar 1352 AH, corresponding to 29 May 1933.
Use After the Death of King Abdulaziz
After the passing of King Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him – King Saud used the palace as administrative offices until 1383 AH, after which it was incorporated into the state guest palaces.
Transformation into a Museum
Due to its historical significance, the palace was officially handed over to the Department of Antiquities and Museums by royal directive on 12/2/1402 AH to be converted into a museum.
The Department of Antiquities and Museums at the Ministry of Education restored part of the palace’s façade, ensuring the preservation of its distinctive architectural character. It was then furnished and equipped with exhibits representing all historical periods, arranged scientifically from prehistoric eras, through Islamic periods, and up to modern times.
The museum was officially inaugurated on 17/10/1415 AH.
King Saud’s New Palace (1955)
In 1955, King Saud ordered the construction of his private palace and the residences of his family near the palace of King Abdulaziz. This new complex later became known as King Saud’s Palace, and its construction was supervised by Engineer Hassan Abu Al‑Futouh and Partners.