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It was established in the early 6th century AD. Its foundation and fortification is ascribed to the great King of Gujarat, Siddhraj Jaisinh (1093-1143 AD), who made this his frontier fortress. The architectural style and the exquisite stone carving and iconography on the fort walls and gates suggests that it was conceived and constructed in the same period as Rudra Mahalaya and Zinzuwada Fort. It is mentioned as an important city in the Jain inscriptions of Girnar (VS 1288).
It came under the control of Muslim rulers in 1300 AD after the fall of Patan. The fort of Dabhoi is one of the rare surviving examples of Hindu military architecture, based on the shastri traditions described in various Vaastu scriptures. There are four gates in the town, one in each cardinal direction, having indirect entry, located in the middle of each side of the fort wall. It was altered during the time of Visaldev and the Muslim rule. Hira Bhagol (named after the architect, Hiradhar), the most exquisitely carved gate, is in the east, with Vadodara Gate in the west, Champaner Gate in the north and Nandod Gate in the south. Dabhoi has many Jain and Hindu temples, devoted to different gods and goddesses.
Dabhoi is the birth place of the great Gujarati poet, Raskavi Dayaram, composer of many garbas (devotional songs) and a devotee of Ranchhodraiji of Dakor. Many Jain scholars also stayed here in the past and enriched the Jain Granth Bhandar, which has a collection of ancient Jain manuscripts.
Dabhoi is also the birthplace and home of a great philanthropist, Indravadan Sheth, born on September 22, 1929 who dedicated his entire life for the success and people of Dabhoi. He built many temples, schools, and hospitals in Dabhoi. He opened an eye hospital, free of charge, for all people that can not afford treatment. He built a temple for the untouchables, since they had no temples they could go to. He died on June 27, 2006 and that day is now a holiday there in remembrance of his great soul and dedication.