Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Tower has reached a new milestone by surpassing 80 floors, marking significant progress in its construction. This development signals the tower’s steady climb toward becoming the world’s tallest skyscraper.
The resumption of construction reflects a strategic move by the Saudi government to revive megaprojects. These efforts aim to diversify the kingdom’s economy beyond oil by boosting large-scale developments nationwide.
Design and Structural Advancements
Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture leads the design, with Thornton Tomasetti providing structural engineering services. The Jeddah Tower is planned to exceed 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and include approximately 130 floors. Its mixed-use layout will house luxury hotels, office spaces, serviced apartments, high-end condominiums, and the world’s highest observation deck.
Thornton Tomasetti confirmed that surpassing 80 floors has been a crucial construction milestone in the current year. The project uses an advanced exterior wall system designed to reduce thermal loads and improve energy efficiency. This innovation aligns with global trends toward sustainable high-rise building.
Engineering Highlights
Due to its immense height, the building incorporates a highly sophisticated elevator system. The tower will feature 59 elevators, including 54 single-deck and five double-deck models, supported by 12 escalators. This system addresses vertical transit challenges in supertall buildings.
The tower’s structural design emphasizes both stability and functionality, enabling it to withstand extreme wind loads and seismic activity. Its architectural team draws experience from designing the Burj Khalifa, currently the tallest structure globally, also by Adrian Smith.
Statements from Project Stakeholders
In a recent statement, Thornton Tomasetti emphasized the project’s significance: “Jeddah Tower, Saudi Arabia’s landmark megatall mixed-use tower, made significant construction progress this year, surpassing 80 floors. Upon completion, it will stand as the first human-made structure to reach a full kilometer.”
Robert Forest, partner at AS+GG Architecture, shared that site activity has intensified: “Construction activities have ramped up, and the atmosphere on site is robust. The entire team is committed and focused on realizing this iconic structure for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
Future Developments in Saudi Arabia’s Skyline
Completion of the Jeddah Tower is targeted for late 2028. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia continues its pursuit of architectural landmarks. Plans are underway for the Trump Tower in Jeddah and the $5-billion Rise Tower in Riyadh, projected to reach 2 kilometers (6,562 feet), doubling Jeddah Tower’s height.
These megaprojects form part of a broader national vision to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in innovative urban architecture. They also reflect economic diversification strategies focused on tourism, real estate, and global investment.
Key Project Facts
- Construction resumed recently after an initial pause starting in 2018.
- The tower currently exceeds 80 floors, aiming for about 130 total.
- Designed height is over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet).
- Mixed-use spaces: hotel, offices, apartments, condominiums.
- Advanced elevator count: 59, including double-deck units.
- Completion anticipated by late 2028.
The progress of Jeddah Tower demonstrates a renewed commitment to megastructures shaping the future of urban landscapes. Its record-breaking height will set new standards for engineering and design in the global architectural community.
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