New World’s Tallest Buildings Rise in Saudi Arabia as Kingdom Redefines Global Skyline

Saudi Arabia is preparing to dominate the global skyline with two unprecedented megastructures that could permanently rewrite architectural records.

The most ambitious proposal is Rise Tower in Riyadh, a futuristic skyscraper projected to reach nearly two kilometers in height, making it more than 20 times taller than London’s Big Ben. The building would feature 678 floors, luxury hotels, offices, restaurants, and observation areas, and is expected to cost around £5 billion.

The project is planned as the centerpiece of Riyadh’s North Pole Development, part of the Kingdom’s sweeping Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil. Construction would be overseen by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, though final approval has not yet been confirmed.

If completed, Rise Tower would dwarf the current world record holder, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which stands at 829.8 meters.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s long-delayed Jeddah Tower has officially returned to construction. Structural engineers confirmed that the building surpassed 80 floors by December 2025 and remains on track to exceed 1,000 meters in total height. Completion is targeted for 2028.

Once finished, Jeddah Tower will become the first human-made structure to rise beyond one kilometer. It will house luxury residences, offices, a hotel, and the world’s highest observation deck. The project includes 59 elevators and advanced exterior systems designed to reduce heat and energy consumption.

Construction on Jeddah Tower originally began in 2009 but was halted in 2018 due to political and contractor disputes. Its revival now signals renewed confidence in Saudi Arabia’s megaproject strategy.

Architectural firms Foster + Partners and HKS have both been linked to conceptual designs for Rise Tower, though official design leadership remains unconfirmed.

Engineers face enormous challenges, including extreme desert temperatures, wind resistance at record heights, and foundation systems capable of supporting unprecedented structural loads.

Saudi officials say these skyscrapers are not only symbols of national ambition but key elements in transforming Saudi Arabia into a global business, tourism, and innovation hub.

With Rise Tower and Jeddah Tower moving forward, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as the future capital of vertical architecture.