Deera Square and Justice Palace

Deera Square, also known as Al Adl Square, is the central public square of old Riyadh in Ad Dirah, Saudi Arabia. It is framed by the Najdi-style Qasr Al Hokm, the Justice Palace, which houses the governor's offices and is viewed from outside only, and by the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Grand Mosque. Masmak Fortress and Souq Al Zal lie within a few minutes' walk, so the square is the natural hub of an old-city walking route. The square is open around the clock and free to enter. Visitors see a broad paved plaza, the earthen-toned facade of the Justice Palace with its crenellations and carved doors, the mosque's minaret and the street life of the old centre. A stop at the square takes 30 to 45 minutes, including photographs. Early evening is the best time to visit, when the heat drops, lighting begins, and local families and worshippers gather. Photographers favour the palace facade from the middle of the square, the mosque beside it, and the view toward Masmak Fortress. The square is busiest around prayer times and on Thursday and Friday evenings, while weekday mornings are quiet. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, and the Justice Palace is not open to the public, so the visit is about the architecture and atmosphere. Visitors should dress modestly, show respect during prayer times and avoid photographing officials or worshippers without permission. Ride-hailing from Olaya costs about SAR 20-35. The nearby Souq Al Zal and Masmak Fortress offer shopping and a museum stop, making the square an easy start or end to a half-day tour of historic Riyadh.