Project Overview

The Jeddah Tower, previously known as the Kingdom Tower, is a megatall skyscraper. Located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, it will be the world's tallest man-made structure once completed. It is 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) or 1 kilometer in height, which is taller than the Burj Khalifa. It is approximately 172 meters higher than the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building in Dubai.

According to the reports, there would be a total of 157 floors above the ground. Also, it will feature 252 stories in total, although it is not confirmed how many of these will be above ground and how many will be below. 

The Jeddah Tower involves the world’s most sophisticated elevator system. It comprises 59 elevators, including 54 single-deck elevators, five double-deck elevators, and 12 escalators. Elevators serving the observatory will travel at a rate of 10 meters per second in both directions. 

Project History & Background

The idea for constructing the Jeddah Tower (previously known as the Kingdom Tower) was initially dropped in 2008. At this point, it is only in the planning stage, and the ideal height of the tower has not yet been disclosed. But it was clear that it would surpass Burj Khalifa. 

In 2009, reports claimed that the building’s construction was on hold due to the global financial crisis of 2008-2009. However, King Holdings Company immediately rejects and declares the news invalid. It was designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Architecture in Chicago. Coincidentally, it is the same architect who designed Burj Khalifa. 

Due to several reasons, the construction did not start immediately. It took three years (2013) to start construction on the Jeddah Tower. It is expected to be completed by 2020. It would be constructed in an area of 530,000 square meters. 

As of 2013, the construction of the building had made steady progress up to 2018.

Then, in 2018, the construction stopped. It happened as the primary contractor, the Bin Laden Group, was removed following the arrest of its president, Bakr bin Laden, step-brother of Osama bin Laden, as part of an anti-corruption purge initiated by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Further, it got delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Until 2018, construction was one-third complete (63 floors).

Project Scope

Jeddah Tower is located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Its primary aim is to become the tallest building in the world. The project scope includes the following. 

• Tower’s design: It is a triangular-shaped building made of high-performance, fortified concrete and steel. The advanced glass panels are designed to resist the harsh climate of Jeddah City. Over 270 piles are driven 105 meters into the ground to support the weight.

• Elevators: The tower includes a total of 59 elevators, comprising five double-deck elevators to smoothly transport residents. 

• Integration of sky lobbies: Merging sky lobbies will help manage vertical transportation more effectively.

• Boost Tourism: The Project aims to boost the economy and tourism in the country. It provides different attractions, including luxury residences, hotels, and office spaces. It will have the world’s highest observatory deck at 644 meters (over 2,000 feet). 

• Wide-ranging economic activities: The project is part of Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at boosting the economy beyond oil. 

Project Location of Jeddah Tower

The Jeddah Tower is located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on the Red Sea coast, in the northern part of the city. It is part of the larger Jeddah Economic City development project. It is the centerpiece of this city.   

Also Read: Red Sea Project - A part of Saudi Vision 2030

Project Cost of Jeddah Tower

The total cost of the Jeddah Tower is approximately USD 1.2 billion. It is a part of the Jeddah Economic City Development project, which costs a total of USD 20 billion. The construction restarted in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2028.

Construction restarted in the Kingdom Tower (Jeddah Tower)

In January 2025, construction restarted on the Jeddah Tower. The concrete was poured for the 64th floor of the Jeddah Tower. At a ceremony on January 21, key stakeholders, including Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, Chairman of Kingdom Holding Company, and representatives from Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, marked it as a milestone.

The spokesperson of the developer company claimed that they expect to complete a floor every four days and will complete the tower project by 2028. 

The project is part of Saudi Vision 2030. It aims to boost Saudi Arabia’s global image, positioning it as a key economic player on the world stage in time for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted around the kingdom. It is marked as the ‘Centerpiece of the Jeddah Economic City’ (JEC) development. 

Upon completion, the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia will comprise luxury hotels, offices, short-term rentals, and condominiums. It will be taller than the Burj Khalifa, approximately 173 meters (570 feet). It will stand twice as high as New York's Empire State Building and eleven times the height of the Statue of Liberty. 

Design & Technology of the Jeddah Tower, Saudi Arabia

The masterpiece design of the Jeddah Tower is a triangular-shaped structure influenced by the unfolding leaves of a desert plant, which denotes growth and resilience. It cuts down the wind resistance and improves stability, allowing it to reach extraordinary heights. 

The building spotlights advanced glass panels designed to resist the harsh climate of Jeddah City. It is effective in reducing heat absorption, improving energy efficiency, and creating a shimmering, futuristic aesthetic.

The total number of floors in the Jeddah Tower

The Jeddah Tower comprises a total of 157 floors, offering a diverse range of functions. It offers luxury apartments, entertainment venues, and hotels. The Tower features a record-breaking observation deck that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Red Sea. It will attract visitors from around the world, making the city a key tourism and economic destination. 

Jeddah Tower Completion Date

In January 2025, Kingdom Holding Company announced its latest timeline for the Jeddah Tower. Construction has restarted, and it expects to complete the project by 2028. Initially, it was scheduled to be completed by 2020. 

Difference between Jeddah Tower & Burj Khalifa

Investors of Jeddah Tower

Contractors of Jeddah Tower

Timeline for the project

Benefits of the Jeddah Tower

The Jeddah Tower is a key component of Saudi Vision 2030. It will bring benefits to the economic, social, and cultural sectors. The following are the benefits of Jeddah Tower. 

• Promoting the Real Estate Sector: The tower will boost property values and promote development in the surrounding area, fostering a vibrant urban landscape.

• Employment generation: The construction and operation of the tower will create abundant job opportunities. As a result, it will boost the employment rate in the city.

• Boosting Infrastructure: The project focuses on improving transportation, utilities, and public services, leading to overall infrastructure development in the region. 

• Organize International Events: Upon completion, the tower aims to host conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events, positioning the city as the center of worldwide gatherings. 

• Environmental safety: The tower represents the kingdom's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship through cutting-edge technologies. 

Conclusion

The Jeddah Tower is all set to break the records and become the tallest building in the world. Upon completion, the tower will set a new benchmark in architecture and urban development, representing a new era of progress and ambition in Saudi Arabia. 

With its rise on the global stage, the Jeddah Tower symbolizes Saudi Arabia's ambitions to lead the world in architectural feats and economic and cultural influence. The tower is more than just a building; it's a leading light for Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation, development, and sustainable growth. 

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FAQs

What materials is the Jeddah Tower made of?

High-performance fortified concrete and steel are used to construct the Jeddah Tower. These materials can withstand a harsh city climate and ensure the tower’s soundness against the wind at high altitudes and extreme temperatures. Furthermore, the materials used are eco-friendly.  

Who is the owner of the Jeddah Tower?

The Jeddah Economic City (JEC) owns the Jeddah Tower. Kingdom Holding Company, Bakhsh Group, and Sharbatly Group are its primary shareholders. Its prime investor is Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), with a 40% stake.