Architecture

Riyadh’s Mukaab: Is This the Most Ambitious Building Project Ever?

The construction of Mukaab, the surreal cubic megastructure set to become the largest building on Earth by volume, has begun and is progressing at an impressive pace.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
The Mukaab, a new architectural marvel, soon to rise in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will stand apart from all other skyscrapers built to date / Photo via Forbes
The Mukaab, a new architectural marvel, soon to rise in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will stand apart from all other skyscrapers built to date / Photo via Forbes

The Mukaab, a new architectural marvel, soon to rise in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will stand apart from all other skyscrapers built to date. Unlike the towering Burj Khalifa or the horizontal expanse of the upcoming The Line, this structure will take the form of a massive cube, housing a spiraling tower within an interior space equivalent to placing 20 Empire State Buildings side by side.

 

Recognized as one of the most ambitious architectural endeavors in history, Mukaab serves as the centerpiece of the New Murabba project, positioned in the heart of the Saudi capital. Its presence will transform the city’s skyline, adding a mega-structure visible from virtually any point in Riyadh.

Recognized as one of the most ambitious architectural endeavors in history, Mukaab serves as the centerpiece of the New Murabba project, positioned in the heart of the Saudi capital / Photo via ArchDaily
Recognized as one of the most ambitious architectural endeavors in history, Mukaab serves as the centerpiece of the New Murabba project, positioned in the heart of the Saudi capital / Photo via ArchDaily

With a height of 400 meters and identical measurements on all sides, this monumental cube will provide two million square meters of interior space, designated for commercial, cultural, and hospitality functions, including a luxury hotel featuring 500 rooms.

Giant Cube Will Transform Riyadh

Additionally, the building will encompass a diverse range of entertainment facilities, such as theaters, exhibition centers, and interactive spaces. According to Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba, “The construction of Mukaab is designed to be a transformative element in Riyadh’s skyline, comparable to the great architectural icons of other world capitals,” citing landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower.

 

Beyond being the world’s largest skyscraper, Mukaab will be the first structure of its kind, featuring an immersive interior capable of projecting dynamic visuals on its vast internal walls, transporting visitors to different environments around the world. This innovative experience is comparable to the Las Vegas Sphere but on a much grander scale—intended not merely for concerts but as a space for daily living. Dyke describes it as a place where “you can fall asleep in the Serengeti and wake up in New York.”

The building will encompass a diverse range of entertainment facilities, such as theaters, exhibition centers, and interactive spaces / Photo via Riyadh
The building will encompass a diverse range of entertainment facilities, such as theaters, exhibition centers, and interactive spaces / Photo via Riyadh

The exterior design of Mukaab will incorporate interwoven triangular patterns inspired by traditional Najdi architecture, while the interior will host ten major attractions distributed throughout the building. At its core, a central tower will rise to the structure’s ceiling, offering panoramic views of the immense internal space.

Future of Urban Living

As part of its first development phase, the project will also introduce a high-capacity public transportation network designed to accommodate large passenger volumes, ensuring an average wait time of fewer than five minutes. This system will seamlessly connect all districts within the project, enhancing accessibility for both residents and visitors.

The exterior design of Mukaab will incorporate interwoven triangular patterns inspired by traditional Najdi architecture / Photo via ArchDaily
The exterior design of Mukaab will incorporate interwoven triangular patterns inspired by traditional Najdi architecture / Photo via ArchDaily

Key information

  • What is the architectural significance of Mukaab? It is the largest building in the world by volume and features an immersive interior projection system.
  • How does Mukaab differ from traditional skyscrapers? Unlike traditional towers, it is a massive cube containing a spiraling tower within its vast interior space.
  • What cultural influences are reflected in Mukaab’s design? Its exterior incorporates interwoven triangular patterns inspired by traditional Najdi architecture.

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