Construction has officially commenced on what is set to become the world’s largest building, the Mukaab supertall skyscraper, a marvel that can fit 20 Empire State Buildings. The excavation for Mukaab and its surrounding podium areas is already 86% complete, marking a significant milestone for New Murabba, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) company behind the project.
The rapid pace of development and dedication to worker safety underscore New Murabba’s commitment to a world-class urban landmark. “Our team’s skill and dedication drive this progress,” said New Murabba’s CEO, Michael Dyke. “We’re proud of the steps we’re taking in shaping Riyadh’s future.” Over 3 million safe work hours have been logged, reflecting the company’s emphasis on the well-being of its workforce.
Excavation has involved around 250 excavators and over 400 pieces of equipment, emphasizing the scale of this development. A temporary bridge crossing King Khalid Road will connect construction sites, easing logistics by reducing public truck movements by nearly 800,000 for earthworks alone. This measure aims to positively impact local infrastructure, a core value held by New Murabba.
With almost 900 employees working there every day, the project is moving quickly closer to its 2030 completion date. 100,000 residences, 980,000 square meters of retail space, 1.4 million square meters of commercial space, hotels, cultural centers, a university, an immersive theater, and a unique museum will all be housed within the building. Neom is the most well-known of the 14 mega projects being developed in Saudi Arabia, including New Murabba.
Designed by AtkinsRéalis, the Mukaab will merge Najdi architectural elements with cutting-edge technology, including immersive digital and holographic experiences. It will offer premium hospitality, cultural and tourist attractions, retail, and recreation spaces, setting a new standard for sustainable, visionary urban architecture in the Kingdom.