As part of the New Murabba development, Saudi Arabia is set to build what has been described as the “most complex structure known to man,” according to Michael Dyke, CEO of New Murabba Development Co.
Known as the Mukaab, this futuristic mixed-use landmark will redefine Riyadh’s skyline, positioned at the heart of the large-scale urban Giga-project.
Speaking at the Real Estate Future Forum, Dyke emphasised the ambitious scale of the project, developed with the backing of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“Mukaab is a structure that will be, pound for pound, the world’s most complex structure ever created—known to man or woman in the history of time,” Dyke stated.
“We have a structure that is 400 metres by 400 meters above the ground. We’re talking about a structure that will stand more than 1,000 meters above sea level,” he added.
While most attention is focused on Mukaab’s above-ground presence, Dyke highlighted the massive underground development that is integral to the project.
“Below the ground is enormous as well. It’s a complete cavernous labyrinth of various asset classes,” he explained.
“For example, the retail space beneath and around Mukaab will be the size of Dubai Mall today, with the capability of expanding even further. That’s just a small glimpse of what lies underground.”
The Mukaab will feature several multi-storey buildings within its structure.
“We will have something like two to three Empire State Buildings on each corner, anchoring the four corners of Mukaab,” Dyke revealed.
“We will also have a dome spanning 360,000 square meters, measuring 380 meters in height and 340 meters in diameter—essentially the equivalent of multiple Empire State Buildings.”
At the centre of the Mukaab, a unique tower will rise, marking an extraordinary architectural achievement.
“This will be the only skyscraper in the world housed inside another building—equivalent in size to the Eiffel Tower but fully inhabited,” Dyke noted.
The lower tower is expected to accommodate 27,000 people, while the structure will also feature the world’s largest roof, spanning 16 hectares, designed as a fully functional living space.
Mukaab’s design integrates Riyadh’s architectural heritage, featuring a fully activated Najdi façade, a tribute to the Kingdom’s historic architectural styles.
“It will showcase the most beautiful Najdi façade, reflecting the rich architectural history of the Kingdom,” Dyke said.
The project aims to deliver an immersive experience in hospitality, retail, and entertainment unlike anything seen before.
“When you step inside the dome, you’ll be transported to other worlds. These worlds will change frequently, and you won’t even see the dome when you’re inside—it will be a fully immersive experience,” Dyke added.
Using a systems-thinking approach, the Mukaab will integrate the latest technology with flexible infrastructure to redefine investment and enterprise, generating significant socio-economic impact. Upon full completion of all three phases, New Murabba is expected to house 400,000 residents and attract tens of millions of visitors to Mukaab annually. This dynamic hub will be fully integrated into Riyadh’s economy, rather than operating as a separate entity. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s capital is projected to reach a population of 10 million by 2030
