Construction has officially commenced on the Mukaab, a monumental cube-shaped skyscraper designed by AtkinsRéalis. Standing at an impressive height of 400 meters, Mukaab is set to become the tallest building in Riyadh and the largest building in the world upon its completion.
The New Murabba Development
Situated at the heart of the 19-square-kilometer New Murabba development in northwest Riyadh, Mukaab is currently undergoing excavation work, with groundworks reported to be 86 percent complete, as stated by the New Murabba Development Company. This ambitious project is backed by Saudi Arabia’s central Public Investment Fund (PIF), aiming to redefine the architectural landscape of Riyadh.
A Marvel of Architectural Design
Mukaab’s design features a striking cube shape with edges measuring 400 meters. It qualifies as a supertall skyscraper, a category that includes structures exceeding 300 meters in height. According to Bloomberg, upon its completion, Mukaab will take the title of the largest built structure in the world, surpassing the current record held by the Boeing Everett Factory in the USA.
Inside this architectural marvel, a spacious atrium nearly spanning the height of the building will be complemented by a spiraling tower at its center. Surrounding this core will be approximately two million square meters dedicated to shops, cultural venues, and tourist attractions, promising a vibrant environment for visitors and residents alike.
Architectural Aesthetics
The exterior of Mukaab will feature a distinctive façade composed of overlapping triangular forms, a design element that pays homage to the modern Najdi architectural style. This innovative approach is not just about aesthetics; it also aims to create a structure that resonates with the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia while embodying contemporary architectural trends.
The Vision Behind New Murabba
Upon completion, Mukaab will serve as the centerpiece of the New Murabba development, envisioned as a new downtown area for Riyadh. The comprehensive project is projected to include over 100,000 homes, 980,000 square meters of retail space, 1.4 million square meters of office space, hotels, cultural venues, a university, an immersive theatre, and a distinctive museum.
A Part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
The Mukaab project is scheduled for completion by 2030, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy aimed at diversifying the country’s economy. This initiative is supported by the Public Investment Fund, reflecting a broader ambition to transform the kingdom into a global hub of innovation and commerce.
Giga Projects in Saudi Arabia
Mukaab is one of 14 “giga projects” currently underway in Saudi Arabia, with other notable projects including Neom, which has garnered significant attention and debate due to its scale and vision. The Mukaab, however, stands out as a landmark that will redefine the skyline of Riyadh and signify the kingdom’s commitment to progressive urban development.
Photos: New Murabba Development Company
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