Shubra palace, Historical palace museum in Taif, Saudi Arabia

Shubra Palace is a four-storey building above a cellar, with about 150 rooms and four similar facades. Its columns are made of nurra and stone, and the main hall holds a large double wooden staircase with a marble floor known as the Salamlek. The roof parapet carries ornament in a mainly Roman style, and the windows and doors are carved wood.

Construction took place between 1904 and 1906 under Sharif Ali Abdullah bin Muhammad's direction as a private residence of that era. The building later became home to King Abdulaziz and Prince Faisal, marking its rise in national importance.

The museum has a section on Taif's crafts, including the distillation of Taif roses into oil and rose water, and another on the old market, called khan locally. The palace's own diwan was the office of Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz when the palace served as a summer base; visitors may enter it.

The site has multiple levels and stairs to navigate, so wearing comfortable shoes and allowing extra time for exploration is helpful. Visiting during cooler morning or evening hours is recommended, especially during warmer seasons.

The central hall features a double wooden staircase called Salamlek that leads to the second floor, decorated with historical photographs from Saudi Arabia's past. This staircase represents the skilled craftsmanship of the era and becomes a focal point for many who visit.