Khuzam Palace in al-Hufuf

Khuzam Palace in al-Hufuf is a historical palace located in al-Hufuf City, al-Ahsa Governorate, east of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was built during the first years of the reign of Imam Saud Bin Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Al Saud, the third Imam of the First Saudi State, in 1805.

Khuzam Palace in al-Hufuf was built when Imam Saud Bin Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Al Saud annexed al-Ahsa Province under Saudi rule. He ordered the construction of several forts and castles, including Khuzam Palace in al-Hufuf. Historical references recount that it was named after its location, role, and control over one of the areas that was witnessing conflicts the most in al-Ahsa back at that time. The word "Khuzam" means "al-Zimam," which is the reins of the camel that are tied to their nose, reflecting the role of the palace in controlling the region.

Khuzam Palace is located at the end of al-Mazroueia Neighborhood, west of al-Hufuf City. The location of the palace was selected to guard the western road to the western gate of al-Hufuf City. In the past, the palace overlooked the site where merchants coming to al-Ahsa during summer would gather for a limited time of no more than two months to trade goods available in al-Ahsa with those brought from abroad, such as dates, ghee, some textiles and fabrics, rifles, and ammunition. The palace then became a seat for administering the affairs of these tribes, offering protection, and settling conflicts between parties in the region and new visitors, namely conflicts regarding water sources. The vicinity of the palace housed a large spring of water that was one of the main sources of water.

Khuzam Palace in al-Hufuf has a rectangular shape with its dimensions being eighty by seventy m. It covers an area of 5,600 m and bears a defensive wall featuring six protruding towers and five conical towers. The entrance to the palace is located within a square tower at the center of the northern wall. The cornered summit of the towers features windows for observation and guarding. The internal design of the palace comprises an open and wide courtyard at its center, encompassing three buildings for private residence and a large majlis neighbored by a mosque, horse stable, and water well.