Saudi Arabia is no stranger to bold construction projects, and its latest plan is set to break records. The North Pole project, recently announced by Saudi Arabia Holding Co., will feature a 2-kilometer-tall skyscraper — the tallest structure ever built.
The Rise Tower, as it’s called, will be located in northern Riyadh, forming the centerpiece of a new central business district. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has started the bidding process for the tower, with costs estimated at around USD 5 billion, though the final price will depend on the design.
To put things in perspective, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa stands at 828 meters, while the Jeddah Tower, currently under construction, is planned to reach 1,000 meters. The Rise Tower will double that height, making it a true engineering feat. The project has been designed by Foster + Partners, a well-known architectural firm from Britain.
The North Pole project isn’t just about setting records. It’s designed to be a futuristic, sustainable urban space with:
- Pedestrian-friendly streets, bike lanes, and green spaces
- Solar-powered energy and other renewable sources
- Autonomous vehicles and high-speed underground transport
- Air taxis and vertical living spaces
There’s no official opening date yet, but the project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, a government program launched by the Kingdom, which focuses on economic diversification and urban development.
With its ambitious scale and futuristic design, the North Pole project could redefine Riyadh’s skyline and set new standards for sustainable urban living.
