Burj Khalifa, currently the world’s tallest building at 828 metres, is expected to be surpassed by upcoming high-rise developments in Saudi Arabia, as two major projects continue to progress at different stages.
In Riyadh, the proposed Rise Tower is planned to reach a height of approximately two kilometres. The project, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and designed by HKS Architects, remains in the design phase. First unveiled in 2025, the tower is expected to include 678 floors, with space allocated for hotels, restaurants, observation decks, and commercial offices. It is also set to serve as the central feature of the wider North Pole masterplan, a proposed 306 square kilometre urban development.
Meanwhile, construction activity has resumed on the Jeddah Economic Company Tower, also known as Jeddah Tower. The project is planned to exceed 1,000 metres in height, positioning it ahead of Burj Khalifa upon completion. Originally launched more than a decade ago, the tower has experienced several delays but has recently regained momentum.
According to updates shared in early 2025 by Kingdom Holding Company, construction is now progressing steadily. As of March 2026, the structure has surpassed the 91st floor and reached a height of over 370 metres. Work is advancing at an average rate of one floor every five days, supported by a workforce of approximately 5,200 personnel.
The tower, designed by Adrian Smith, will include residential units, commercial spaces, and a hotel operated by Four Seasons. It will also feature an observation deck with views of Jeddah and the Red Sea. Glass façade installation has commenced as part of the ongoing construction phase.
Funding for the remaining phases of the project is estimated at Dhs6 billion and will be supported through internal resources and banking facilities by Jeddah Economic Company. The tower forms part of the first phase of a larger urban development spanning 5.3 million square metres, with 1.3 million square metres already equipped with core infrastructure, including utilities and connectivity systems.
Construction of Jeddah Tower is currently expected to be completed by 2028. Until then, Burj Khalifa will retain its position as the world’s tallest building.
