His father, Mutaib, served as Emir for nine months in 1906, before being killed alongside his brothers by Sultan bin Hammoud Al Rashid.

Abdullah bin Mutaib would succeed him as Emir, at the age of 13, but members of the Al Sabhan family would rule on his behalf.

In response, Ibn Saud, in March 1921, launched a military campaign against the Emirate of Jebel Shammar.

[2] At this time, Muhammad ibn Talal, the governor of Al-Jawf, swore allegiance and promised to defend Ha'il.

[3] The inhabitants of Ha'il managed to defend their leader and they continued to hold the siege, which was accompanied by small skirmishes.