Deera Square, Public square in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Deera Square, also known as Justice Square, is a public square in the old administrative heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is a large paved area with a long, low building of tan stone blocks, featuring rows of small windows, a circular emblem with a palm tree and crossed swords, and Arabic inscriptions above recessed doorways.

The square dates back to the 19th century when Imam Turki bin Abdullah made Riyadh the capital of the Second Saudi State and built the Grand Mosque nearby. Over time, it became the setting for public executions and later underwent renovations as part of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, with the clock tower added in the 1960s.

The square is part of the historic Deera district, where the name Deera refers to the old town, and it sits next to the Grand Mosque and the Masmak Fortress. Today, it is a crossing point for people heading to the nearby souks and government offices, and the clock tower at the intersection is a local meeting landmark.

Visitors should be aware that the square is an active public space with occasional closures for official events, so it is wise to check local conditions before planning a visit. Photography and filming may be restricted, and it is important to respect any signs or instructions from authorities on site.

The square once had the first speaking clock in the kingdom and the Gulf, which announced the time with a female voice until it was changed to a male voice after objections. The clock is now hidden behind modern buildings, and many passersby do not notice it unless they stand right in front of it.