Saudi Arabia is planning an unprecedented megaproject: a 6,500-foot-tall skyscraper that will house hotels amidst the clouds

Saudi Arabia is planning an unprecedented leap in the race for vertical architecture. The country is considering building a 2,000-meter-tall skyscraper in Riyadh, a figure that would more than double the height of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, currently the tallest building in the world. The project envisions 678 floors and an estimated cost of $5 billion, although it is still in the early stages of development.

The tower, referred to in industry reports as the provisional name Rise Tower, would be located in the north of the Saudi capital and would form part of a larger urban development. Despite the impressive figures being discussed, the authorities have not released an official timeline nor confirmed construction contracts, indicating that the project is still in the technical and financial planning stages.

The initiative has gained momentum after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) initiated contact with international companies for the comprehensive management of the project. According to specialized sources, the tender would not be limited to the skyscraper alone, but would also include the design and development of the surrounding urban environment, with the intention of creating a new economic and business hub in Riyadh.

In addition to this 2-kilometer project in Riyadh, there is another major project underway in Saudi Arabia: the Jeddah Tower, located in the coastal city. This building was designed to be the first to exceed 1,000 meters in height, surpassing the 830 meters of the Burj Khalifa. However, its construction was halted in 2018 and resumed steadily in 2025. It is expected to be completed around 2027-2028, housing a Four Seasons hotel, offices, and luxury residences.

Hotels and restaurants thousands of meters high

The preliminary design of the building envisions a mixed-use development combining offices, retail spaces, and leisure areas. Among the most striking features are the addition of luxury hotels and restaurants situated at exceptional heights, a commitment to offering unique experiences and enhancing the complex’s appeal to tourists.

The project fits within Vision 2030, the strategy with which Saudi Arabia seeks to diversify its economy, reduce its dependence on oil and position itself as a key player in tourism, business and major infrastructure.

If it finally materializes, the 2-kilometer tower would not only set a new world record, but would also solidify Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead the era of global mega constructions.

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