Duba is a historic town nestled along the Red Sea in northwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Due to its proximity to NEOM, the futuristic city under construction, it’s not uncommon to see foreigners there. Residents of NEOM often visit on weekends. However, few venture into the old town.
Please note that this article includes photos from my four visits to Duba’s old town. This explains the variations in colors and weather—even though the sky was always blue!
A timeless legacy: the history of Duba
Duba old town, nicknamed “the Pearl of the Red Sea,” was once a major trading port and a key stop for caravans transporting spices, incense, and other goods along the Incense Route. In 1933, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman bin Faisal Al Saud commissioned the construction of a castle next to the old town of Duba. The castle is an attraction you can also visit, either before or after exploring the Old Town.
Duba Old Town: a dive into ancient architecture
Duba was one of the first cities I visited in Saudi Arabia. I like old town that show their heritage. I was also fortunate to visit Ushaiger, another city with a significant heritage village about 2 hours from Riyadh. During my visits to Duba, I always take the time to stroll through the old town. The place is still deserted, which leads me to believe that the old town remains relatively unknown… or maybe it was too hot to venture out?
I started the visit from the castle. Since there is a parking lot, there’s space to park. The old town is right next to it. The entrance is located between the palm trees to the right of the castle.
The old town evokes ancient Arabia. With its narrow, dirt-covered alleys and traditional stone houses with colourful doors, this place transports us to another time. The un-renovated buildings are still accessible, but be cautious not to venture too far as the structures are not reliable…
A little further on is the main square. The buildings have colourful shutters and doors. Looking inside, it’s clear that the place is not yet fully renovated. Duba’s old town reminds me of Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district. The traditional coral-stone buildings but on a much smaller scale.
Fortunately, I was well-covered so I didn’t end up like a lobster by the end of my visit. After your tour, I recommend taking a stroll along the docks if the cafés and restaurants are open. Otherwise, head to 8 Cups Cafe, as it is one of the best..
Duba: a modern city
Duba is also a modern city with pastel colours. As part of one of my projects, I wandered through the streets to soak in the city: all these colours helped me create the colour palette and brand design guidelines.
While driving around the city, I came across a few surprising sights. I spotted an Eiffel Tower replica sitting on Duba’s beachfront, right next to the old town—How unexpected! A little further, I saw the Duba Lighthouse, with its spiral design, checkered pattern, and red beacon at the top (or at least I think it’s a beacon). Up on the hill, the Prince Fahd bin Sultan Cultural Center with a pretty distinctive architecture.
Dining options
Duba, “the Pearl of the Red Sea,” is known for its diving spots as well as its seafood. My colleagues and the official Saudi Arabia website recommend Alseajan Seafood. The restaurant is located across from Duba’s old town, right by the port. Since I am allergic to shellfish, I wasn’t able to try it. While Duba is gradually embracing modernity, its old town offers a chance to explore Saudi Arabia’s heritage
