The Race for the Sky: Can Jeddah Tower Surpass Burj Khalifa?

Priyal DuttaMay 17, 20242 Mins read678

After nearly five years of inactivity, the Jeddah Tower project resumed development in 2023

In Dubai, The Burj Khalifa and the Empire State Building in New York have held the title of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. However, a new marvel is poised to take over this title—Jeddah Tower, a neo-futuristic landmark planned in Saudi Arabia.

Since its completion in 2009, the Burj Khalifa has been the world’s tallest structure and building, overtaking the previous record-holder, Taipei 101

Designed by the renowned Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Jeddah Tower is set to reach an astounding height of 3,281 feet. Scheduled for completion in the next four to five years, this colossal structure will overshadow the Statue of Liberty by nearly eleven times. The design, described by Smith and Gill, draws inspiration from Saudi Arabian symbolism, representing the kingdom’s future growth with its sleek, asymmetrical form that echoes the elegance of palm fronds reaching towards the sky.

The construction of the Jeddah Tower came to a halt in January 2018, when the building’s owner, JEC, suspended structural concrete work

The tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, will become a popular feature of the city’s skyline, symbolizing progress and innovation. Jeddah, the second-largest city in the country, borders the Red Sea and boasts architectural gems like the Penang Floating Mosque and the historic Al Balad district.

The Jeddah Tower was designed by American architect Adrian Smith, who also designed the Burj Khalifa

Jeddah Tower’s design uniquely blends neo-futuristic aesthetics, avant-garde elements, and cutting-edge technology. The tower’s sleek, tapering form is a nod to the graceful curves of palm fronds, a native symbol of the region.

The outside of the Burj Khalifa was finished in 2009, five years after construction began in 2004.

The construction of Jeddah Tower began in 2013 and has faced challenges. In 2018, the project was interrupted due to issues with the Binladin Group, the project’s contractor. The COVID-19 pandemic further hampered progress. However, in September 2023, reports confirmed that construction had resumed.

vcv — The Jeddah Tower project was placed on hold due to the global financial crisis of 2008 and 2009

The Jeddah Economic Company (JEC), responsible for the project, has announced that construction is back on track. It aims for completion in the next four to five years. Despite past setbacks, JEC actively seeks contractors and expects to finalize selections soon. At the pause, roughly one-third of Jeddah Tower had been completed. Once finished, it will soar to 3,281 feet, surpassing Burj Khalifa by about 564 feet.

nnn — At about one kilometre, Jeddah Tower would be the tallest building in the world to date, standing 180 meters (591 ft) taller than Burj Khalifa

Once completed, Jeddah Tower will be more than just a skyscraper. It will be a vibrant mixed-use complex that will house residential, commercial, and office spaces. The tower will also boast the world’s highest observation deck, a Four Seasons hotel, and a vast outdoor balcony initially designed as a helipad, offering visitors a unique and unparalleled experience.