Saudi Arabia's Ambition to Build 2km-Tall Building

Saudi Arabia’s ambition to build the world’s tallest building is drawing closer to reality. The Middle Eastern nation is now preparing two massive skyscraper projects projected to surpass Dubai’s Burj Khalifa in height. Currently, the Burj Khalifa holds the record as the world’s tallest building at 828 metres. However, this position is expected to be overtaken by Saudi Arabia’s super-tall developments. One of the most ambitious projects is the Rise Tower in Riyadh, designed to reach up to two kilometres in height. According to Timeout Dubai, the Rise Tower is a mega-project proposed in Riyadh and currently in the planning phase. Supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, it is set to be the centrepiece of a 306 square kilometre futuristic development area named North Pole. The Rise Tower will feature 678 floors housing luxury hotels, premium restaurants, observation decks, and high-end offices. Although construction plans were drawn up in 2023, the project remains in the design stage and has not yet approached full construction or official opening schedules. If realised, the Rise Tower will undoubtedly break the world record for the tallest building ever constructed. Citing Parametric Architecture, construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with most of the work expected to be completed by 2030 as part of Saudi Arabia’s economic vision. The project is estimated to cost $5 billion, equivalent to Rp 88.64 trillion (at an exchange rate of Rp 17,720 to the dollar). In addition to the Rise Tower, Saudi Arabia is also continuing construction of the Jeddah Economic Tower (JEC Tower), which is expected to be completed by 2028.