Jeddah Tower. Photo: DR
The global urban landscape is about to welcome a new architectural giant. There Jeddah Towerunder construction in Saudi Arabia, promises to redefine the limits of what is possible in vertical construction. With a planned height of 1,008 meters, this colossal structure promises to be the future tallest tower in the world, far surpassing the current holder of the title, the Burj Khalifa from Dubai.
The project, launched more than a decade ago, has had its share of challenges. After a stoppage in 2018 and delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, construction resumed at the end of 2023, rekindling hopes of seeing this futuristic monument rise into the Saudi sky. Current estimates predict its completion between 2028 and 2029, marking a new era in the history of skyscrapers.
Designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, the Jeddah Tower stands out for its bold design. Its slender silhouette, compared to “a bundle of leaves emerging from the ground”, symbolizes growth and renewal. This shape is not only aesthetic; it integrates technical innovations to optimize the energy performance of the building. A high-performance exterior wall and strategically placed notches will help reduce energy consumption and protect the building from the harsh desert climate.
The interior of the tower promises to be just as impressive as its exterior. Equipped with 59 high-speed elevators and 12 escalators, it will offer an unprecedented vertical experience. The highlight of this adventure will undoubtedly be the observatory located on the 157th floor, at an altitude of 644 meters, offering a panoramic view of the Red Sea.
Beyond its technical prowess, the Jeddah Tower embodies the ambitions of a country in full transformation. It will be the beating heart of the Jeddah Central complex, housing luxury residences, high-end commercial spaces, offices and a prestigious hotel. This pharaonic project, estimated at more than a billion euros, demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s desire to position itself as a major player on the international scene.
