TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, still holds the record as the world's tallest building at 828 meters. However, that position is likely to change soon, given Saudi Arabia's ambitions to build even taller buildings and Dubai's efforts to renew its iconic project. This architectural competition marks a new chapter in large-scale infrastructure development in the Middle East.
As reported by Time Out Dubai on February 6, 2026, Saudi Arabia is planning the construction of the Rise Tower in Riyadh. Designed by the architectural firm HKS, the building aims to reach a height of two kilometers, or twice the current height of the Burj Khalifa. The Rise Tower is planned to have 678 floors and will be the centerpiece of a future development area called the North Pole. This project demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to leading the global modern architecture landscape.
In addition to the Rise Tower, Saudi Arabia is also continuing construction of the Jeddah Economic Company Tower in Jeddah. The building is planned to be at least one kilometer long and is targeted for completion in 2028. Work on the building's glass facade has already begun, which will house luxury residential facilities, commercial areas, and a five-star Four Seasons hotel. This move underscores Saudi Arabia's readiness to shift the dominance of skyscrapers from Dubai.
Dubai Creek Tower
On the other hand, Dubai has responded by reviving the Dubai Creek Tower project. As reported by the Daily Express on January 30, 2026, Emaar Properties has updated the building's design to surpass the height of the Burj Khalifa, maintaining Dubai's status as the world's tallest building. The project initially had an investment value of around $1 billion (approximately IDR 16.8 trillion), with a design by Santiago Calatrava inspired by Islamic traditions.
The tender process for construction will be held soon, while the surrounding residential area has already begun to develop. Overall, this ongoing project provides tourists with a glimpse of the changing face of the Middle East, which will become even more magnificent with the arrival of these iconic towers.
IMANDA ZAHWA
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