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Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are preparing to redefine the global skyline with three mega projects that promise to surpass the architectural feats of today. Developers are advancing plans for skyscrapers in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dubai that could overshadow even the iconic Burj Khalifa, currently the world’s tallest building at 828 meters.
At the forefront is Riyadh’s proposed Rise Tower, which is expected to stretch an extraordinary 2,000 meters into the sky. Designed by Foster + Partners, the project has already concluded its design competition and is in the contractor bidding phase. If realized, it would more than double the height of the Burj Khalifa, cementing the Saudi capital as the epicenter of futuristic design. The estimated cost stands at around $5 billion, funded by the Public Investment Fund.
Alongside Riyadh’s vision, the long-anticipated Jeddah Tower is also making headlines. Construction on the tower, once stalled, resumed in 2025. As of August, 69 floors have already been completed, with developers targeting a 2028 opening. Rising to just over one kilometer, it is designed by Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill, the same architects behind the Burj Khalifa. Backed by the Jeddah Economic Company and Kingdom Holding, the $1.23 billion project aims to host offices, residences, a Four Seasons hotel, and the highest observatory deck in the world.
Meanwhile, Dubai has not been left behind in the race. Azizi Developments is advancing construction on the Burj Azizi, a 131-story skyscraper that could reach a height of up to 1,000 meters, depending on final approvals. While confirmed plans place the tower at 725 meters, industry sources have suggested that the final structure may push further upward, potentially challenging its Saudi rivals. Expected to be completed between 2027 and 2028, the tower is designed as a mixed-use development featuring luxury apartments, retail space, and cultural attractions.
The Middle East has long pursued a strategy of using architectural landmarks as symbols of global ambition. The Burj Khalifa, which opened in 2010, quickly became a global icon and a magnet for tourism, business, and real estate investment. These new projects seek not only to reclaim the spotlight but also to demonstrate the region’s resilience and vision in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Analysts say the new towers reflect more than a desire for records. They embody broader economic diversification strategies, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where megaprojects are central to the Vision 2030 plan. By creating globally recognized landmarks, Riyadh and Jeddah aim to position themselves as destinations for business and culture while attracting foreign investment.
Dubai, already established as a hub for luxury living and global trade, is leveraging its next supertall building to reinforce its reputation as a leader in urban innovation. Azizi’s move into ultra-tall architecture underscores the competitive dynamic among Gulf developers and the willingness to push engineering boundaries.
Skeptics, however, caution that such projects are fraught with risks. Mega-tall buildings face complex engineering challenges, escalating costs, and uncertain demand. The Jeddah Tower itself is a case study, with construction halting for years before resuming only recently. Similarly, Rise Tower’s proposed 2-kilometer height would require unprecedented structural solutions and sustained funding commitments.
Despite the hurdles, momentum remains strong. Contractors are positioning for high-profile contracts, and regional governments are backing projects with long-term infrastructure commitments. Industry experts suggest that even partial completion of these towers would create transformative urban districts, generating ripple effects in real estate, tourism, and job creation.
If completed as planned, these three towers would mark a new chapter in the global skyscraper race. For now, the Burj Khalifa still reigns supreme, but the next decade could see the Middle East not just retaining its crown, but redefining the very concept of vertical cities.
Rise Tower is planned to reach 2,000 meters, more than twice the height of the Burj Khalifa.
The Jeddah Tower is targeted for completion by 2028, with construction already resumed in 2025.
The Burj Azizi is confirmed at 725 meters but could rise close to 1,000 meters based on final approvals.
These projects symbolize economic diversification, global ambition, and a drive to attract investment and tourism.
They face engineering complexities, cost overruns, and long-term demand uncertainty, but governments remain committed.
