The iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai has reigned as the world’s tallest building since 2010, standing at 828 metres. But that record might not last much longer. According to Gulf News, three new mega-projects in Saudi Arabia and the UAE are gearing up to surpass it.
Leading the charge is Rise Tower in Riyadh, which developers say will reach an incredible 2,000 metres. That’s more than double the height of Burj Khalifa and would make it by far the tallest building on Earth. The skyscraper is part of the futuristic North Pole District and designed by renowned firm Foster + Partners. Early estimates put the cost around $5 billion, with bids from major global contractors already under review.
Meanwhile, Jeddah Tower is back in motion after years of delays. Originally announced over a decade ago, construction stalled in 2018 with about 69 floors complete. Work resumed in early 2025, and the project is finally pushing forward toward its planned 1-kilometre height. Once finished, it will anchor Jeddah Economic City, offering a mix of residences, offices, a Four Seasons hotel, and the world’s highest observation deck.
Not to be left behind, Dubai has its own contender with Burj Azizi. Planned at 725 metres with the possibility of extending closer to 1,000 metres, it will feature 131 floors filled with luxury apartments, a seven-star hotel, restaurants, and what developers claim will be the world’s highest nightclub and lobby. Completion is expected between 2027 and 2028.
These projects aren’t just about breaking records. They’re also symbols of the region’s determination to shape global skylines and push architectural boundaries. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are using mega-towers as part of their broader economic visions, attracting investment, tourism, and worldwide attention. If all goes according to plan, by the end of this decade the Middle East will not just be home to the tallest building but possibly the three tallest, completely redefining what “high-rise living” means.
