Saudi Arabia’s Record-Breaking Megaproject Skyscraper to Redefine Riyadh’s Skyline Underway

Saudi Arabia has announced plans to build the "Mukaab," which is set to become the tallest building in the world, according to a report by Bloomberg. Designed to serve as the centerpiece of Riyadh's New Murabba district, the skyscraper will extend 400 meters in all directions, surpassing the height of 20 Empire State Buildings. 

The project will also redevelop the historic Al-Murabba neighborhood, a name derived from a square-shaped well that once served the area. The landmark Murabba Palace, constructed outside the old city walls of Riyadh by the kingdom’s modern founder, King Abdulaziz, shares its name with the neighborhood. 

Described as "a technological marvel and cultural icon," the Mukaab will offer immersive experiences and blend contemporary Najdi architecture with advanced holographic technology. The building will feature ten major attractions within its expansive 2 million square meters of floor space. 

Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba, emphasized the project's significance, stating, “The Mukaab is masquerading as a building today, but it’s so much more. Our goal is to redefine Riyadh’s skyline and leave an enduring legacy that will last for centuries.” 

Construction is already underway, with more than 10 million cubic meters of land excavated to date. However, the plans have sparked controversy; last year, many Muslims voiced their concerns on social media regarding the massive cube-shaped structure's resemblance to the Kaaba, Islam's most sacred site located in Makkah. The shared linguistic root of "Mukaab" (or Cube) with the Kaaba has fueled these sentiments. 

Riyadh, the capital city, remains at the heart of a construction boom, with $35 billion in contracts awarded thus far. Over the next decade, the city is expected to add thousands of homes, hotels, and millions of square meters of office space, as reported by Bloomberg. 

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has launched several ambitious initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030 projects, including plans to build 15 stadiums in its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.