Saudi Arabia, known for its ambitious architectural endeavors, is once again making headlines with plans to construct a skyscraper that will dwarf even the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Reportedly backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the proposed skyscraper is set to soar to unprecedented heights, reaching a staggering 2 kilometers in height, more than double the height of the Burj Khalifa.
The project, set to be located near King Khalid International Airport, north of the Saudi capital, Riyadh, has attracted attention from renowned international design firms. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), famous for their work on the Burj Khalifa, was among the contenders for this mega-tall project.
Foster + Partners, a leading architecture firm, has been actively involved in shaping the landscape of Saudi Arabia, notably through their ongoing expansion projects at King Salman International Airport. The firm, which is also overseeing the development of the airport, recently won a contest for its 57 square kilometer expansion in late 2022. With such a strong presence in the region, Foster + Partners is well-positioned to take on the challenge of designing the world’s tallest skyscraper.
The proposed Riyadh skyscraper, if realized, would surpass Foster + Partners’ current tallest project, the 423-meter-tall JPMorgan Chase World Headquarters in New York City. This ambitious endeavor reflects Saudi Arabia’s determination to push the boundaries of architectural innovation and cement its position as a global leader in urban development.
Currently, the tallest structure in Riyadh is the PIF Tower, standing at 385 meters in the King Abdullah Financial District. Designed by HOK and Omrania, the PIF Tower has been a prominent feature of the city skyline for the past decade. However, with the introduction of the proposed 2km-tall skyscraper, Riyadh is poised to redefine its architectural identity on a monumental scale.
In addition to the record-breaking skyscraper, Riyadh is set to welcome another architectural marvel in the form of the Mukaab Tower. Designed by Atkins, the 400-meter-tall cube-shaped skyscraper is billed as the largest ‘inner-city building in the world.’ With plans to house offices, homes, and entertainment spaces, the Mukaab Tower promises to be a focal point of north-west Riyadh.
These ambitious projects are part of a broader trend of giga-developments taking shape across Saudi Arabia, with many involving collaborations with renowned international architecture firms. From the NEOM smart city development to the Trojena ski resort, British architects have been instrumental in shaping the kingdom’s urban landscape.
For Foster + Partners, the Middle East has proven to be a lucrative market, with the firm’s revenue soaring in recent years. With its expertise in large-scale projects and commitment to pushing the boundaries of design, Foster + Partners is well-equipped to lead the charge in realizing Saudi Arabia’s architectural ambitions.
As Saudi Arabia continues to redefine its skyline with bold and visionary projects, the proposed 2km-tall skyscraper stands as a testament to the kingdom’s unwavering commitment to innovation and progress in the field of architecture. If realized, it will not only be a symbol of architectural prowess but also a testament to the limitless possibilities of human ingenuity and ambition.