Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has embarked on constructing a monumental $50 billion megastructure in Riyadh, set to be among the world’s largest buildings. Named ‘The Mukaab,’ this cubical structure is planned to rise 1,300 feet high and span 1,200 feet across, with enough space to fit 20 Empire State Buildings inside, according to a recent report.
Designed as a futuristic city within a single building, The Mukaab will cover 2 million square meters of floor space. As part of Saudi Arabia’s extensive urban redevelopment efforts, it will feature residential units, hotels, office spaces, and a wide array of retail, dining, and leisure facilities, the Sun reported.
All about The Mukaab: Saudi Arabia’s grand upcoming building
The Mukaabs design aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ‘Saudi Vision 2030’ initiative.
The project aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil, boost non-oil GDP by $51 billion, and create 334,000 jobs.
Developers plan to integrate immersive, AI-driven technology to elevate the visitor experience.
Large-scale exterior screens, similar to those on the Las Vegas Sphere, are planned for dynamic visual displays.
The Mukaab’s architectural design is inspired by Saudi Arabia’s traditional and natural heritage.
The cube shape of the exterior reflects the Najdi architectural style, known for mud-brick structures and geometric window designs.
Surrounding landscapes will mimic desert wadis, or dry riverbeds, which are common in the region.
A video released by Saudi authorities previews the planned cityscape around the structure.
The district will feature over 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, luxury retail outlets, office spaces, leisure areas, and community facilities.
Some critics have expressed concerns over the structure’s resemblance to the Kaaba in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site.
Human rights organisations have raised concerns about potential exploitation of migrant labor and displacement of local residents due to the project’s scale.
