Saudi Arabia Begins Construction of World’s Largest Building
Saudi Arabia has commenced construction on the Mukaab, aiming to become the largest building globally. This monumental project is located in Riyadh and represents a $50 billion investment. It is part of a broader vision to modernize the city and enhance its skyline.
Project Specifications
The Mukaab will soar to 1,300 feet in height and span 1,200 feet in width. It will have enough space to house 20 Empire State Buildings. The total floor area will reach 2 million square feet, dedicated to various functions, including fine dining, retail, offices, and residential units.
Residential and Hospitality Features
The building will comprise 104,000 residential units and 9,000 hotel rooms, creating a vibrant downtown atmosphere. The design prioritizes human interaction, ensuring that green spaces are accessible within a 15-minute walk from any location inside the Mukaab.
Innovative Technology Integration
The New Murabba Development Company plans to incorporate artificial intelligence to enhance visitor experiences. The exterior will feature massive screens, similar to those found on the Las Vegas Sphere, providing dynamic visual displays.
Cultural and Architectural Inspiration
The Mukaab’s design draws inspiration from local ecology and traditional architecture. It will mimic wadis, with winding pathways and smaller adjacent buildings. Its square shape reflects Najdi architecture, characterized by mudbrick structures, triangular windows, and central courtyards.
Saudi Vision 2030 Initiative
The Mukaab is integral to Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. This initiative aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, promoting tourism and urban development.
Economic Impact
The Mukaab is expected to contribute over $51 billion to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP. It will create around 334,000 jobs, with 900 workers employed during construction. The project is anticipated to be completed by 2030.
Related Developments in Saudi Arabia
The Mukaab is part of several projects in the kingdom. These include Oxagon, a floating port city, Trojena, a mountain tourism site, and NEOM, a futuristic urban area. Additionally, the Line project aims to accommodate 9 million residents over 105 miles, powered by renewable energy.
All these projects are on schedule to be completed by 2030. They signify a transformative shift in Saudi Arabia’s economic landscape, focusing on sustainability and modern living.
Month: Current Affairs - October, 2024
Category: International / World Current Affairs