A record of the epic, historical, and diplomatic deeds through which the Al-Oqilat proved themselves a protective shield and faithful ambassadors for their homeland.
Defending Baghdad: An Honorable Stand with Hassan Pasha
The Al-Oqilat’s role was not confined to commerce and the economy. In times of crisis, they also formed a formidable and dependable force. One of their most memorable deeds was their principled and heroic stand beside Hassan Pasha in the defense of Baghdad in 1201 AH. Through disciplined organization and courage, they formed a protective shield that helped restore security and safeguard the city’s resources from invaders and internal conflict.
The Battle of Maysalun, 1339 AH: Al-Oqilat Sacrifice and Fallen Heroes
In one of the great episodes of modern Arab history, the Al-Oqilat earned an honored place through their active participation in the Battle of Maysalun. When the call came to defend the land and its dignity, approximately 800 Al-Oqilat volunteers joined the fighting force and faced the French army with courage.
Al-Oqilat Heroes and Fallen Fighters at the Battle of Maysalun:
- Commander Nasser bin Ali Al-Dughaither, Hero of Maysalun
- Leader: Abdullah Al-Sulaiman Al-Essa
- Fahd bin Sharikh
- Saad Al-Sukaiti
- Abdullah Al-Mukairish
- Fahd Al-Abdullah Al-Wuhaibi
- Barrak Al-Dubaikhi
The Al-Oqilat’s Support for King Abdulaziz in Unifying the Kingdom
The Al-Oqilat played an honorable and significant role in supporting King Abdulaziz Al Saud—the hero of the Arabian Peninsula, may Allah have mercy on him—in his efforts to unify the country. They took part in several decisive battles and stood at the forefront in engagements such as Al-Bukairiyah and Al-Shinanah.
They also provided substantial logistical support. In 1344 AH, when King Abdulaziz resolved to perform Hajj, the Al-Oqilat of Buraidah prepared between 400 and 500 fully equipped camels. They supplied horses and equipment for several campaigns, including the conquest of Hail.
The Kingdom’s Ambassadors and Diplomatic Representation
The Al-Oqilat first served as King Abdulaziz’s unofficial agents abroad and later as his formally appointed representatives. Among the most prominent were:
- Sheikh Fawzan Al-Sabiq: King Abdulaziz’s representative in Egypt and an ambassador of the Kingdom. He participated in major international meetings, including the preparatory meeting for the Alexandria Protocol that established the Arab League in 1945, and attended the signing of the Saudi-Jordanian Treaty of Friendship in 1933.
- Other Agents and Representatives: Al-Rabdi, Mansour Al-Rumaih, Hamoud Al-Barak, and Sulaiman Al-Mushaiqih, King Abdulaziz’s representative in the Levant.