In 1130, Da'ud forged an alliance with Ilaldi, the ruler of Amida, and other Turkmen chiefs against Zengi, but their combined forces suffered defeat against the Atabeg in Saruj, who later managed to extend his influence over the region including Dara.

[7] In 1131, Da'ud expanded his control by occupying several fortresses south of Lake Van, including Qatalbas and Batasa,[6] and the city of Siirt.

[7] Da'ud's subsequent campaign against Timurtash compelled the demolition of Mayyafariqin's suburbs due to the inability to defend them against rival incursions.

A famous decorated plate in Byzantine style was dedicated to Rukn al-Dawla Dawu, with the following mention:[1] The amir, the great general, the God-aided, the victorious, Nasir al-Din, Rukn al-Dawla, protector of the faith, magnificence of the umma (nation), general of the armies, crown of kings and sultans, killer of the infidels and polytheists, Alp Sevinç Sunqur Beg Ata(?)

b. Artuq Sayf amir al-Mu’minin.The plate was probably a royal gift for Rukn al-Dawla Dawud, from Christian Byzantium, or Georgia, or another region under Byzantine cultural influence.