[5] It also served as a caravanserai and was part of the Caliph's program to improve the routes to Hijaz,[6] at a time when the number of caravans passing through the region had increased substantially.

[7] It lacks the imperial features associated with other desert castles, suggesting that it was used as a temporary or seasonal residence rather than a permanent one.

[8] The site was brought to art historical attention after it was visited in 1896 by the Czech explorer Alois Musil.

[12] The enclosure walls are supported by semi-round towers, except on the north side where the two gateways are flanked by two square rooms.

The lintels are decorated with rosettes intertwined with plant leaves, which give the impression of fine lace work.