The Jeddah Tower: A Glimpse into the Future of Megatall Architecture
Imagine a skyline where the tallest building soars over 1,000 meters, redefining what is possible in architecture. Welcome to the Jeddah Tower, poised to eclipse the Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest building, with construction lately surpassing 80 floors. This ambitious project not only symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s architectural innovation but also represents a pivotal moment in global megaproject trends.
Why the Jeddah Tower Matters
The resurgence of the Jeddah Tower is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader initiative to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. By reinvigorating large-scale projects, the kingdom aims to attract international investment and tourism. The skyscraper serves as a centerpiece in this strategy, highlighting the importance of architectural endeavors in economic transformation.
Architectural Aspirations: Setting New Heights
Capable of reaching unparalleled heights, the Jeddah Tower is designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture and boasts plans for 130 floors. In 2025, Thornton Tomasetti, the structural engineering firm, celebrated a significant milestone, heralding the tower’s construction progress. This mixed-use skyscraper will span 57 million square feet, featuring luxury accommodations and the world’s highest observation deck.
Technological Innovations in Elevating Experience
To accommodate its extreme height, the Jeddah Tower will employ one of the most sophisticated elevator systems globally, featuring 59 elevators and 12 escalators. The project emphasizes energy efficiency, as its exterior wall system is designed to minimize thermal loads, a requirement for sustainability in high-rise buildings. Such innovations set a precedent for future developments in tall structures.
Global Perspectives: What Experts Are Saying
Thornton Tomasetti stated, “Jeddah Tower, Saudi Arabia’s landmark megatall mixed-use tower, made significant construction progress in 2025, surpassing 80 floors in December.” Meanwhile, Robert Forest from AS+GG Architecture adds, “The entire team is committed and focused on realizing this iconic structure for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” emphasizing the cultural importance of the tower.
What’s Next for Jeddah Tower?
Anticipated to be completed by 2028, the Jeddah Tower not only outlines the kingdom’s architectural ambitions but is accompanied by other noteworthy projects, such as a planned Trump Tower and the $5-billion Rise Tower in Riyadh, which aims to achieve a daunting 2 kilometers in height. These developments indicate a regional commitment to pushing architectural boundaries and could usher in a new era of urban skylines.
The Implications of Megatall Buildings
The rise of the Jeddah Tower warns of a future where skyscrapers redefine urban landscapes and possess the potential to influence local economies and global architectural trends. As cities grapple with challenges of space and sustainability, the implications of the Jeddah Tower extend beyond mere height, inviting discussions around the future of urban development itself.
What are your predictions for the future of megatall buildings and their impact on global architecture? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
