Saudi Arabia is building a giant gold cube in the heart of Riyadh, and it’s about to make jaws drop. Dubbed the Mukaab, this mega-project is already making headlines not just for its size but for the buzz it’s stirring. With a mind-blowing 400 metres in height, width, and length, it might just claim the title of the world’s largest building. But there’s more, Mukaab has a fair share of admirers and critics alike, thanks to comparisons with Mecca’s Kaaba. Now, let’s dive into this architectural marvel with a splash of humour and awe.
Riyadh’s Mukaab: A Giant Gold Cube Stirring Ambitions And Controversy
View this post on Instagram
Imagine squeezing 20 Empire State Buildings into one structure. That’s what the Mukaab promises! This colossal cube will be the crown jewel of the New Murabba development, which is spread across 19 square kilometres in northwest Riyadh. Behind this ambitious project is the engineering genius of AtkinsRealis, a firm tasked with transforming vision into reality.
As part of a $50 billion investment, the Mukaab isn’t just about size it’s about experiences. The building will house 100,000 homes, with retail shops, hotels, offices, and entertainment spaces woven seamlessly within. Designed to reflect the architecture of the Najd region, this futuristic cube is a fusion of heritage and innovation
A Golden Dream Of Saudi Arabia
While the Mukaab is turning heads, it’s also ruffling feathers. Some critics argue that the cube’s resemblance to the Kaaba in Mecca could spark controversy. But the Kingdom insists the Mukaab draws from local traditions and will reflect cultural pride, not imitation. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is spearheading this initiative as part of Saudi’s Vision 2030, a strategic plan to diversify the economy and reshape the country’s global image.
Despite the chatter, the Mukaab is undoubtedly a bold statement, both in scale and ambition. It represents a new chapter for Riyadh, one that blends the traditional with the contemporary. And with the excitement building around Expo 2030, this golden cube might soon become one of the most talked-about structures on the planet.
Also Read: 45000-Seat New Murabba Stadium Designs Revealed; Will Feature Restaurants, Shops & More
The Mukaab Is Coming
The Mukaab isn’t just a building, it’s a revolution in architecture, ambition, and cultural storytelling. Whether you’re mesmerised by its grandeur or intrigued by the debate it stirs, one thing’s for sure: Riyadh is aiming high, and the Mukaab is proof. With groundwork nearly complete and the world watching closely, this giant gold cube promises to steal the spotlight long before Expo 2030 even begins. So, mark your calendars because Riyadh’s Mukaab is gearing up to change the game, and maybe redefine how we think about architecture altogether!
Cover Image Courtesy: New Murabba/Website
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: October 28, 2024 11:45 AM