- 5 months ago
Inside King Salman's New $10 Billion Palace!
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00:00From Italian marble floors worth more than entire government buildings, to an ancient
00:04mud-brick fortress where even waste bins have silver accents, King Salman's $1.2 billion
00:09palace empire spans from ultimate luxury to humble farm retreats. Let's dive in.
00:14Al-Yamama Palace. Starting with the epicenter of Saudi political power, Al-Yamama Palace,
00:19the official residence that serves as King Salman's primary workplace and the nerve center
00:23of one of the world's most influential monarchies. Located in the Al-Hadda district of northwestern
00:28This isn't just a home. It's where the future of global energy policy is decided every single day.
00:34The story of Al-Yamama begins in 1988, during the reign of King Fahd, when Saudi Arabia was
00:40experiencing an unprecedented oil boom that demanded a new level of architectural sophistication.
00:46The palace was named after the historic Al-Yamama region, connecting this modern marvel to the
00:51ancient roots of Saudi civilization. But what truly sets Al-Yamama apart isn't just its historical
00:56significance. It's the mind-boggling attention to detail that transforms every surface into a work
01:01of art. Step through the main entrance and you'll immediately understand why world leaders speak in
01:06hushed, reverent tones about their visits here. The floors are crafted from Italian marble so
01:11pristine and perfectly matched that each slab was individually selected by master stoneworkers.
01:16The cost of this flooring alone would fund entire government buildings in most countries,
01:20but here it's merely the foundation for even more spectacular displays of craftsmanship.
01:25Look up and your breath will catch as you take in the intricately carved ceiling and wall panels
01:29that showcase woodworking techniques passed down through generations of Arabian artisans.
01:34These aren't mass-produced decorations. Each panel tells a story incorporating geometric patterns
01:39that reflect Islamic artistic traditions while pushing the boundaries of what's possible with
01:43traditional tools and modern precision. But it's in the grand reception halls where Al-Yamama truly
01:48reveals its magnificence. The rooms are adorned with gilded brocade fabrics that shimmer under crystal
01:53chandeliers, complemented by swagged curtains that frame coffered ceilings reaching toward
01:58the heavens. The walls are dominated by large portraits of the king, serving as constant reminders
02:03of the authority and dignity of the Saudi throne. This is where history unfolds in real-time.
02:08King Salman chairs his weekly government meetings in these very halls, making decisions that impact
02:13global oil prices, regional stability and international diplomacy. The palace has witnessed pivotal moments
02:19in modern Middle Eastern history, including hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2023 for crucial
02:25discussions about energy cooperation and regional security. The diplomatic significance of Al-Yamama cannot
02:31be overstated. It serves as the headquarters for the royal court where decrees that shape the kingdom's
02:37future are drafted and signed. Foreign ambassadors and heads of state regularly walk these marble halls,
02:42participating in negotiations that determine everything from arms deals worth billions to cultural
02:47exchange programs that bridge East and West. What makes Al-Yamama particularly remarkable is how it
02:53seamlessly blends traditional Arabian architectural elements with contemporary luxury. The elegant modern
02:58structure incorporates geometric patterns, arched entrances and a sprawling compound layout that pays homage
03:04to classical Islamic design. The palm-lined approach and fortified perimeter serve both aesthetic and
03:10security purposes, creating an atmosphere that's simultaneously welcoming and awe-inspiring. But when
03:15the formalities of Al-Yamama become too intense, King Salman has another diplomatic masterpiece just
03:20minutes away. Erga Palace Just minutes from the bustling heart of central Riyadh stands Erga Palace,
03:26a relatively recent addition to King Salman's architectural portfolio that has quickly become synonymous with
03:32high-stakes international diplomacy. This modern compound, completed in the early 2000s,
03:40King Salman's reign. But don't let the word auxiliary fool you. This is a masterpiece of contemporary design
03:45that rivals any presidential residence on earth. The significance of Erga Palace was cemented in 2015,
03:51when King Salman hosted US President Barack Obama here to discuss condolences for the passing of King Abdullah.
03:57This wasn't just a diplomatic meeting. It was a moment that required a setting capable of conveying both
04:02the gravity of loss and the strength of the Saudi-American alliance. Erga Palace provided exactly that backdrop,
04:07with its perfect balance of solemnity and grandeur. The dramatic palm-lined approach with fountains and
04:13landscaping creates an unforgettable first impression that sets the tone for every visit. As dignitary's
04:18motorcades sweep through the gates, they're greeted by a carefully orchestrated display of natural beauty and
04:23architectural sophistication that announces Saudi Arabia's commitment to excellence in every detail.
04:29The exterior of Erga Palace represents a masterful evolution of Arabian architectural principles.
04:34The modern and elegant building incorporates traditional Arabic motifs, including geometric facades
04:40that catch the desert light throughout the day. High walls provide privacy while maintaining an air of
04:45welcoming grandeur, a balance that's crucial for a facility that must serve both intimate family
04:50gatherings and formal state functions. But it's when you step inside that Erga Palace truly reveals why
04:55it has become King Salman's preferred venue for certain types of diplomatic engagement. The interiors
05:01are described as ostentatious, featuring extensive gilding that catches and reflects light throughout the
05:06day, creating an ever-changing tapestry of golden highlights. Rich silk carpets imported from the
05:11finest weaving centres complement pricey Italian marble flooring, creating layers of luxury that speak to
05:17guests subconscious long before formal negotiations begin. The attention to detail at Erga Palace borders
05:23on the obsessive. Even mundane fixtures like waste bins are crafted with silver accents, a level of
05:28refinement that ensures no element of the guest experience is left to chance. This philosophy extends
05:33throughout the palace, where every surface, every fixture, every piece of furniture has been selected,
05:38not just for its individual beauty, but for how it contributes to an overall atmosphere of
05:43uncompromising excellence. The grand reception halls are designed specifically for state events,
05:47cultural festivals and VIP meetings, with ornate furnishings and soaring ceilings that create spaces
05:53capable of accommodating both intimate conversations and large ceremonial gatherings. The acoustics have
05:58been carefully engineered to ensure that whether King Salman is addressing a small delegation or hosting
06:03a cultural celebration for hundreds of guests, every word carries with perfect clarity. Erga Palace has
06:09evolved into much more than a government overflow residence. It has become a cultural hub where
06:14state receptions blend seamlessly with cultural festivals, creating opportunities for soft diplomacy
06:19that can be just as powerful as formal negotiations. When international guests experience Saudi hospitality
06:25at Erga Palace, they're not just witnessing wealth, they're experiencing a sophisticated understanding
06:30of how environment shapes relationships and how architectural beauty can facilitate understanding
06:35between nations. The financial investment in Erga Palace reflects its strategic importance. While
06:40construction costs haven't been specifically disclosed, the palace was built during a period when
06:45multi-billion-dollar royal development budgets were common. Industry analysts suggest that a facility of
06:50this calibre, with its combination of cutting-edge technology, premium materials and extensive security
06:56infrastructure, likely represents an investment comparable to other major Riyadh palaces. While Erga Palace
07:01represents the pinnacle of modern diplomatic luxury, our next destination takes us back to where it all
07:06began for the Saudi royal family. Muraba Palace
07:10Step back in time to the 1930s, when Saudi Arabia was just beginning its transformation from a collection
07:15of nomadic tribes into a modern nation, and you'll find yourself at Muraba Palace, a living testament to the
07:21vision and determination of the kingdom's founding father. Built between the 1930s and 1945 by King Abdulaziz as a
07:28showcase of early Saudi wealth, this remarkable structure tells the story of a nation's birth
07:33through its very walls. The palace gets its name from the Arabic word Muraba, meaning square, which
07:38perfectly describes its geometric layout, a design choice that reflected both practical considerations and the
07:45mathematical precision that characterizes Islamic architecture. But Muraba Palace is far more than an
07:50architectural curiosity. It's where King Salman himself was raised during his early years, making it a deeply personal
07:56connection to his own journey from prince to king. The historical significance of Muraba Palace cannot be
08:02overstated. When King Abdulaziz commissioned this project, Saudi Arabia was emerging from centuries
08:07of tribal warfare and beginning to harness the oil wealth that would transform it into a global power.
08:12The palace was funded by emerging oil revenues, representing one of the first major architectural
08:17statements of the new kingdom's ambitions and capabilities. Today, visitors to Muraba Palace experience
08:23something truly unique in the world of royal residences. It has been transformed into a living
08:28museum open to the public with free entry, making it accessible to anyone curious about Saudi royal
08:33history. This transformation reflects King Salman's commitment to cultural preservation and public
08:38education, turning what was once an exclusive family residence into a shared national treasure.
08:43The exterior of Muraba Palace tells the story of Saudi Arabia's architectural evolution. The traditional
08:49Arabian architecture incorporates modern influences from the mid-20th century, featuring mud brick and
08:54stone construction that was state-of-the-art for its era. The restored exterior preserves historical
08:59facades with arched doorways and minimal ornamentation, reflecting the aesthetic preferences of a
09:04generation that valued dignity and functionality over ostentatious display. The high walls and central
09:10courtyard design served multiple purposes, providing privacy for the royal family while creating natural
09:16cooling systems that made the harsh desert climate more bearable. These weren't just aesthetic choices,
09:21they were sophisticated engineering solutions that demonstrated the advanced understanding of
09:25climate and comfort that characterized the best Arabian architecture. Inside Muraba Palace,
09:30visitors encounter a remarkable 32-room layout that has been carefully preserved to showcase artifacts
09:36and cultural heritage. The reception areas feature preserved red silk brocade sofas and portraits of King
09:42Abdulaziz, creating intimate spaces where visitors can imagine the conversations and decisions that
09:47shaped the early kingdom. What makes these interiors particularly fascinating is how they reflect the
09:52transition from nomadic to settled life, capturing a pivotal moment in Saudi history. When traditional
09:57Bedouin culture was adapting to permanent settlements and increasing international contact, the simple yet
10:03elegant rooms house ancient relics and royal memorabilia, including personal items that belonged to the
10:08founding king and his family. The museum displays within Muraba Palace have been carefully curated to tell
10:14the story of Saudi Arabia's rapid development. Visitors can trace the evolution of the kingdom through
10:19photographs, documents and artifacts that span from the early days of tribal unification through the
10:24discovery of oil and into the modern era. It's a journey through time that helps visitors understand not
10:29just where Saudi Arabia has been, but where it's heading under King Salman's leadership. The restoration of
10:35Muraba Palace represents a significant financial commitment that goes far beyond mere building
10:39maintenance. Recent restoration costs are tied to Vision 2030 initiatives, estimated in millions but
10:45not detailed per palace, reflecting the kingdom's determination to preserve its heritage while building
10:50toward the future. This investment in cultural preservation demonstrates that even as Saudi Arabia embraces
10:56rapid modernization, it remains deeply connected to its roots. From the desert birthplace of his childhood,
11:01we now travel to King Salman's coastal sanctuary, where the Red Sea meets royal privacy.
11:07King Salman's Jeddah Palace
11:08Along the pristine shores of the Red Sea, where ancient trade routes once brought merchants from
11:13across the known world, sits one of King Salman's most intriguing and private residences, his coastal palace in Jeddah.
11:20This private estate became particularly significant during Salman's tenure as Minister of Defense from 2011 onward,
11:27serving as both a personal retreat and a strategic location for sensitive governmental functions
11:32that required absolute privacy. Jeddah has always held special significance in Saudi Arabia's political
11:38and cultural landscape. As the traditional gateway to Mecca for millions of pilgrims, the city represents
11:43the spiritual heart of the Islamic world, while its position on the Red Sea makes it a crucial economic
11:48and diplomatic hub connecting Saudi Arabia to Africa, Europe and Asia. King Salman's palace here
11:54is part of the royal family's coastal properties, strategically positioned to serve multiple functions
11:59while providing a welcome escape from the intensity of Riyadh's political atmosphere. What makes the Jeddah Palace
12:04particularly fascinating is how it reflects King Salman's evolution from regional governor to defense minister to monarch.
12:10During his years overseeing Saudi Arabia's military modernization and regional security strategies,
12:16this coastal retreat provided the perfect environment for confidential meetings, strategic planning
12:21sessions and the kind of informal diplomatic encounters that often prove more productive than formal negotiations.
12:27The exterior of the palace showcases the sophisticated understanding of coastal architecture that
12:32characterizes the finest Red Sea properties. Visible on satellite imagery as an expansive compound,
12:38the palace features traditional Saudi architectural elements, including whitewashed walls and arches
12:43that reflect both sunlight and sea breezes. The design emphasizes privacy with high perimeter walls,
12:48while incorporating beachfront access that allows the royal family to enjoy one of the world's most
12:53beautiful coastlines in complete seclusion. The gardens surrounding the palace create a green oasis that
12:59contrasts dramatically with the desert landscape that dominates much of Saudi Arabia. These aren't just
13:04decorative spaces. They're carefully designed ecosystems that provide natural cooling, privacy screening,
13:09and recreational areas that make the palace a true refuge from the demands of leadership.
13:13While specific architectural details of the interior remain carefully guarded for security reasons,
13:19the palace aligns with royal standards featuring luxurious amenities including multiple suites and
13:24entertainment areas. Portraits of King Salman throughout the residence serve as constant reminders of
13:29authority and continuity, while modern furnishings blend seamlessly with traditional decor to create
13:35spaces suitable for both family relaxation and high-level ministerial consultations. The strategic
13:40value of the Jeddah palace extends far beyond its role as a personal residence. During King Salman's
13:46tenure as defense minister, Saudi Arabia faced unprecedented regional challenges, from the Arab Spring uprisings,
13:52to the rise of ISIS, to the complex proxy conflicts that have shaped Middle Eastern geopolitics. Having a secure,
13:58private facility where sensitive discussions could take place away from the formal protocols of Riyadh
14:03proved invaluable in navigating these turbulent times. The financial investment in the Jeddah
14:07palace reflects its dual nature as both private residence and governmental facility. While no direct
14:13cost or valuation has been publicly disclosed, the property is part of King Salman's estimated $18
14:19plus billion personal wealth. Real estate experts suggest that comparable royal coastal estates likely
14:24represent construction investments in the hundreds of millions, particularly when factoring in the advanced
14:29security systems, private infrastructure, and exclusive amenities required for royal use.
14:34The Jeddah palace also serves as a powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia's maritime ambitions. As the kingdom
14:40seeks to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues, coastal development has become
14:45increasingly important. Projects like Neom, the futuristic city being built along the Red Sea coast,
14:50demonstrate how Saudi leadership views coastal regions as crucial to the nation's future.
14:55King Salman's personal investment in Jeddah properties sends a clear message about the
15:00importance of this strategic coastline. But perhaps the most innovative approach to royal legacy lies
15:05back in Riyadh, where a groundbreaking palace has been transformed into something unprecedented.
15:10Al Hamra Palace, Red Palace. In the heart of Riyadh's Al-Futa neighborhood stands a remarkable
15:16testament to Saudi Arabia's architectural evolution and cultural preservation efforts. Al Hamra Palace,
15:21known as the Red Palace, whose journey from cutting-edge royal residence to luxury hotel
15:26and cultural exhibition space tells the story of a kingdom that values both innovation and heritage.
15:31Commissioned in 1943 by King Abdulaziz for his son Prince Saud, this extraordinary building
15:37holds the distinction of being the first reinforced concrete structure built in Saudi Arabia,
15:42making it a pioneering achievement that helped launch the kingdom's modern construction industry.
15:46The historical significance of Al Hamra Palace extends far beyond its architectural innovations.
15:52It served as a royal residence until 1956, during which time it hosted some of the most important
15:57diplomatic meetings in Middle Eastern history. The palace's guest registers read like a who's who
16:02of 20th century world leaders, including Shah Muhammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran and Jawaharlal Nehru,
16:08the first Prime Minister of India. These weren't merely ceremonial visits, they were crucial diplomatic
16:13engagements that helped shape regional alliances and international relationships during a pivotal
16:18period in global politics. The architectural story of Al Hamra Palace is particularly fascinating
16:24because it represents Saudi Arabia's first major experiment with international design influences.
16:29The palace was modeled after a British residency in India, reflecting the global connections and
16:34cosmopolitan outlook that characterized King Abdulaziz's vision for his expanding kingdom. This wasn't
16:40cultural imitation, it was cultural synthesis, taking the best elements of international architecture
16:45and adapting them to Saudi needs, climate and aesthetic preferences. The exterior of Al Hamra Palace
16:50immediately announces its unique character through its distinctive red-hued reinforced concrete
16:55construction, which gives the palace its memorable name. The colonial influences are evident in the
17:00balconies, columns and grand façade that create a striking silhouette against Riyadh's skyline. The
17:06restored appearance successfully blends mid-20th century design with modern upkeep, creating a
17:11structure that honors its historical significance while meeting contemporary standards for preservation
17:16and accessibility. What makes Al Hamra Palace truly remarkable in King Salman's portfolio is how it
17:22represents his commitment to cultural preservation and public engagement. Rather than allowing this historical
17:27treasure to languish unused, the palace was converted to a luxury hotel and exhibition space in 2019,
17:33making it accessible to visitors while generating revenue that helps fund its ongoing preservation.
17:38This isn't just adaptive reuse, it's visionary cultural stewardship that ensures future generations
17:44can experience this architectural milestone. The interiors now feature exhibitions of royal artifacts,
17:50creating immersive experiences that help visitors understand the palace's role in Saudi history.
17:55The opulent rooms retain their historical furnishings, including pieces that were present during
18:00those pivotal diplomatic meetings of the 1940s and 1950s. Walking through these spaces, visitors can
18:06almost hear the echoes of conversations that help determine the course of Middle Eastern politics.
18:11The hotel conversion has been handled with exceptional sensitivity to the palace's historical
18:16character. The original layout has been preserved, with high ceilings and decorative elements maintained,
18:21while modern hotel amenities have been seamlessly integrated to provide contemporary comfort without
18:26compromising historical integrity. Room rates starting around $100 to $200 per night make the
18:32experience accessible to a wide range of visitors, democratizing access to royal history in a way that
18:37would have been unimaginable just decades ago. The financial aspects of Al Hamra Palace reflect both its
18:43historical value and its modern potential. While the original construction cost in 1943 was not specified,
18:49being the first reinforced concrete building in Saudi Arabia suggests it was an expensive experiment for
18:54its era. As a heritage site, its value is truly incalculable, representing not just architectural
19:00achievement, but the physical embodiment of Saudi Arabia's emergence as a modern nation.
19:04Restoration costs have been part of broader historical center funding, reflecting King Salman's broader
19:10commitment to cultural preservation that aligns with Vision 2030's goals of developing tourism and
19:15preserving national heritage. The success of Al Hamra Palace as both historical site and functioning
19:20hotel demonstrates that preservation and profitability can work hand in hand when approached with vision
19:26and respect for historical significance. Yet even this architectural first pales in comparison.
19:31To our next destination, a fortress that predates modern Saudi Arabia by centuries,
19:36Salwa Palace. Journey back nearly three centuries to the birthplace of Saudi Arabia itself,
19:40and you'll discover Salwa Palace, an extraordinary mud-brick fortress that witnessed the founding of
19:45the first Saudi state, and now stands as one of the most significant archaeological and historical sites
19:50under King Salman's stewardship. Located in the Al-Turef neighborhood of Ad-Diriya, a UNESCO World
19:56Heritage Site, this ancient palace complex tells the story of a dynasty that emerged from the desert to
20:01create one of the world's most influential kingdoms. Salwa Palace served as the ruling palace during the 18th
20:07century, making it the governmental heart of the first Saudi state long before oil was discovered,
20:12before modern technology transformed the Arabian Peninsula, and before the world knew that this remote
20:17desert kingdom would one day shape global energy markets. The palace's story is both triumphant and
20:23tragic. It flourished as a center of power and culture until it was abandoned in 1818 after Ottoman
20:29forces destroyed much of Diriya. What makes King Salman's relationship with Salwa Palace particularly
20:34meaningful is how it connects him directly to his ancestor's legacy. King Salman has personally
20:39supported the palace's restoration and development as a cultural site, reflecting not just his interest
20:44in Saudi history, but his understanding that the kingdom's future must be built on a foundation of
20:49respect for its origins. This isn't merely preservation, it's a statement about continuity, legitimacy,
20:54and the enduring values that have sustained the House of Saud through centuries of change.
20:59The scale of Salwa Palace is breathtaking, even by royal standards. As the largest mud brick structure
21:04in the area, covering 10,000 square meters, it demonstrates the engineering capabilities and
21:10architectural ambitions of 18th century Arabian builders who worked without modern machinery or
21:15materials. The fact that substantial portions of this massive complex have survived nearly two centuries of
21:21abandonment, desert storms and occasional conflict, speaks to both the quality of original construction and
21:26the recent restoration efforts undertaken during King Salman's reign. The exterior features tall,
21:32textured walls built in the distinctive Najdi architectural style with battlements, arched gateways,
21:37and a fortress-like appearance that reflects its dual role as residence and defensive position.
21:43Walking around the perimeter of Salwa Palace, visitors can see how the builders use the natural contours of
21:48the landscape to create defensive advantages while maintaining the aesthetic principles that characterize the finest
21:54of traditional Arabian architecture. The restoration work has been carefully designed to highlight the
22:00palace's UNESCO heritage status, using traditional materials and construction techniques wherever possible
22:06to maintain historical authenticity. This isn't reconstruction, it's conservation that respects the palace's
22:12ancient character while making it accessible to modern visitors who come to understand the roots of Saudi
22:17civilization. Inside Salwa Palace, visitors encounter seven distinct units that were originally designed for
22:23residences, administration and religious worship, including a mosque that served the spiritual needs of the
22:28royal household and government officials. The interiors feature simple mud-brick rooms with wooden beams
22:33and courtyards that create natural cooling systems perfectly adapted to the harsh desert climate.
22:38What's particularly striking about these interior spaces is their deliberate simplicity. Unlike the gilded opulence
22:44that characterizes King Salman's modern palaces, Salwa Palace emphasizes authenticity with minimal modern additions.
22:51This restraint serves multiple purposes. It preserves the historical character of the site while
22:55demonstrating that true power doesn't always require ostentatious display. The early Saudi rulers who
23:01lived here understood that strength comes from unity, purpose and connection to the land and people they
23:06served. Today, Salwa Palace hosts biennales and exhibitions on Saudi history, transforming this ancient
23:12seat of power into a vibrant center for cultural education and artistic expression. These events aren't just
23:17tourist attractions, they're carefully curated experiences that help visitors understand the
23:22continuity between Saudi Arabia's past and present, showing how the values and vision of the kingdom's
23:28founders continue to influence contemporary leadership. The financial investment in Salwa Palace
23:33represents one of the most significant heritage preservation projects in the Middle East. Historical
23:38construction in the 18th century had no recorded cost, but restoration under King Salman's initiatives
23:43has been estimated at tens of millions of dollars through Deiria Gate projects. This investment
23:48reflects the palace's immense cultural value and King Salman's commitment to ensuring that future
23:53generations can experience this crucial piece of Saudi heritage. The decision to provide free public
23:58access to Salwa Palace as a cultural site demonstrates King Salman's understanding that national heritage belongs
24:04to all citizens, not just the royal family. This accessibility aligns perfectly with Vision 2030's goals of
24:11developing cultural tourism, while ensuring that Saudis themselves remain connected to their historical
24:16roots. From this ancient seat of power, we conclude our journey at King Salman's most philosophically
24:21revealing residence, a place that challenges every assumption about royal excess. Al-Auya Palace
24:27Deep in the heart of Deiria Governorate, where the desert meets carefully cultivated farmland,
24:32sits perhaps the most personal and philosophically significant of all King Salman's residences,
24:37Al-Auya Palace. Built on King Salman's personal farm, this remarkable structure represents a conscious
24:43choice to embrace simplicity and tradition, even while possessing the resources to build on any
24:47scale imaginable. In a world where royal residences compete for grandeur and ostentation, Al-Auya Palace
24:53stands as a powerful statement about the values that guide Saudi leadership. The palace is located
24:58within the historic Deiria Governorate, the same region that gave birth to the Saudi dynasty and continues to
25:03serve as the spiritual and cultural heart of the kingdom. This isn't coincidental geography, it's a
25:08deliberate choice by King Salman to maintain deep connections to the land and traditions that shaped
25:13his ancestors. By building his private retreat in this historically significant location, he sends a
25:18clear message about the importance of remembering one's roots even as the kingdom modernizes at breakneck
25:24speed. What makes Al-Auya Palace truly extraordinary is how it challenges every preconception about royal
25:29access and architectural ambition. The design follows traditional Najdi architectural style,
25:34incorporating mud brick and stone elements that echo the building techniques used by Arabian craftsmen
25:39for centuries. The high walls and retreat-like layout are integrated into a working farm setting,
25:45creating a unique blend of rural practicality and royal dignity that you won't find anywhere else in the
25:50world. The exterior aesthetic deliberately evokes the rural and royal traditions that define Saudi Arabia
25:56before oil wealth transformed the kingdom. This isn't nostalgia, its philosophy made manifest in
26:02architecture. While King Salman's other palaces demonstrate Saudi Arabia's capacity for luxury and
26:07international sophistication, Al-Auya Palace reminds visitors and residents alike that true strength comes
26:13from staying connected to fundamental values and traditional ways of life. The interior design of Al-Auya Palace is
26:19perhaps its most remarkable feature, particularly when contrasted with the gilded magnificence of properties like
26:25Al-Yamama or Erga Palace. The interiors are surprisingly restrained, evoking earlier less opulent eras of
26:31Saudi royal life. Functional rooms serve for receptions and traditional majli council gatherings, where the
26:36ancient Arabian tradition of consultation and consensus building continues to inform modern governance.
26:42Saudi craftsmanship is showcased throughout the palace through hand-carved details and simple but
26:47elegant furnishings that celebrate local artists and traditions rather than imported luxury goods.
26:53This design philosophy serves multiple purposes. It supports traditional craftsmen, preserves cultural
26:58techniques that might otherwise be lost to modernization, and creates spaces that feel
27:02authentically Arabian rather than generically opulent. Despite its deliberately modest aesthetic, Al-Aya
27:08Palace regularly hosts international dignitaries in spaces that manage to feel both humble and elegant.
27:14This creates a unique diplomatic environment, where visitors experience Arabian hospitality in its most
27:19traditional form, often leading to more relaxed and productive conversations than might occur in more
27:24formal palace settings. There's something about the combination of simplicity and authenticity that
27:29puts even world leaders at ease, facilitating the kind of personal connections that can prove crucial in
27:34international relations. The farm setting of Al-Aya Palace adds another layer of significance to King Salman's
27:40choice of this location for his private retreat. Agriculture remains culturally important in Saudi Arabia,
27:46despite the kingdom's oil wealth representing values of patience, hard work and connection to the land
27:51that continue to resonate with Saudi citizens. By maintaining an active farm around his palace,
27:56King Salman demonstrates that these traditional values remain relevant, even for those who wield immense
28:02power and wealth. From a financial perspective, Al-Aya Palace represents a fascinating paradox. Built with King
28:08Salman's personal funds rather than state resources, it's part of his Diriyah holdings that are funded from his
28:13estimated 18 plus billion personal wealth. Yet the palace's deliberately modest construction
28:18and furnishings likely made it one of the least expensive royal residences to build and maintain,
28:23proving that luxury isn't always measured in gold leaf and Italian marble.
28:27Thank you for watching. If you enjoyed watching this video, click on one of the boxes playing on your
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