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The Economic Times
The Economic Times

1 km high, 167+ storeys: All about Jeddah Tower, the Saudi mega skyscraper set to surpass Burj Khalifa

Saudi Arabia's ambitious Jeddah Tower project has reached a major construction milestone, crossing the 100-floor mark as work resumes on what is expected to become the world's tallest building. Once completed, the skyscraper is projected to rise more than 1,000 metres into the sky, surpassing Dubai's Burj Khalifa, which currently holds the title at 828 metres with 163 storeys.

Designed by US architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Jeddah Tower is expected to feature at least 167 storeys and become the first building in the world to reach a height of one kilometre.

The project, located in Jeddah, originally broke ground in 2013. However, construction was halted for several years before work resumed. According to reports, the tower is now on track for completion in 2028.

Recently released images from the architecture firm provide a glimpse of the skyscraper's rapid progress, showcasing the structure as it advances beyond its 100th floor.

Jeddah Tower to anchor Jeddah Economic City

Jeddah Tower is the centrepiece of the larger Jeddah Economic City master plan, a massive mixed-use development envisioned as a new urban hub for Saudi Arabia. The project aims to create a self-contained district featuring residential communities, commercial centres, hotels, shopping destinations and public spaces.

Rather than serving solely as a record-breaking skyscraper, the tower is being designed as an integrated destination where people can live, work, shop and access entertainment within a single urban ecosystem.

Residential, office and hospitality spaces planned

The mega project will include luxury residential apartments, premium office spaces, hospitality offerings and an observation deck overlooking the Red Sea.

Industry observers expect the development to significantly boost the region's luxury real estate market. Apartments in iconic skyscrapers often command premium prices due to their exclusivity, panoramic views and prestigious addresses.

The commercial component is also expected to attract multinational companies seeking office space in one of the world's most recognisable buildings. Luxury hotels and observation facilities are expected to strengthen the tower's appeal as both a tourism destination and a business travel hub.

Set to surpass Burj Khalifa

Upon completion, Jeddah Tower will overtake Burj Khalifa as the tallest building on Earth. The current record holder has maintained its position since 2010, standing at 828 metres.

The project's scale, engineering complexity and symbolic significance have attracted global attention. Beyond setting a new height record, Jeddah Tower is expected to play a key role in driving investment, economic growth and high-end property development in Saudi Arabia.

If construction remains on schedule, the world could see its first kilometre-high skyscraper open its doors in 2028, marking a historic milestone in modern architecture and engineering.

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