Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Tower to surpass Burj Khalifa, set to become world’s tallest building

The skyscraper is progressing rapidly, with a new floor added every three to four days.

According to Gulf News, the tower is expected to be completed by 2028, standing approximately 172 to 180 meters taller than Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, which currently holds the record at 828 meters.

Originally known as the Kingdom Tower, the Jeddah Tower is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ambition to surpass the Burj Khalifa.

Upon completion, it will become the first building in the world to reach a height of one kilometre.

Looking further ahead, plans are already in place for the Rise Tower, which is expected to reach two kilometres in height.

Located in Jeddah Economic City, the tower will have over 160 floors and a mix of uses, including a Four Seasons Hotel, luxury residences, serviced apartments, and premium office spaces.

One of the most anticipated attractions is a sky-high observation deck offering panoramic views of the Red Sea and the city below.

Designed by Adrian Smith, who also co-designed the Burj Khalifa, the tower incorporates sustainable technologies such as energy-efficient systems and advanced cooling suited for the desert climate.

High-speed elevators capable of traveling at over 10 meters per second will transport visitors throughout the structure.

Burj Khalifa: The current record holder

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai remains a marvel of modern architecture, holding multiple world records including the tallest building, tallest free-standing structure, and highest occupied floor.

The skyscraper has 163 floors with observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148, along with At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant on level 122. Its exterior features more than 26,000 glass panels designed to withstand Dubai’s extreme heat.

Construction of the Burj Khalifa began in 2004, involving over 12,000 workers and engineers, and took nearly six years to complete at a cost of approximately $1.5 billion.

With construction moving at a rapid pace, Jeddah Tower is on track to redefine the limits of skyscraper engineering and architecture, cementing Saudi Arabia’s place in the race for the world’s tallest building.