New Murabba Completes 86 Percent of Excavation

The New Murabba project in Riyadh has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of its massive excavation works. Accordingly, this step paves the way for the construction of the Mukaab, a cubic structure set to redefine global architecture.

Moreover, the New Murabba Development Company has recorded more than three million safe hours. Correspondingly, this affirms its commitment to ensure its team’s utmost safety and security. Part of Vision 2030, the New Murabba project is a cornerstone of the kingdom’s efforts to transform Riyadh into a sustainable urban hub.

About New Murabba

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) heads the development of New Murabba, a 19-square-kilometer area in the heart of Riyadh. Interestingly, it is around the size of Manhattan. New Murabba will serve as the city’s new downtown, blending residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces.

Specifically, it will feature smart hotels with 100,000 residential units, along with 1.4 million square meters of office space. Once completed, the development will not only enhance Riyadh’s skyline, but also boost the city’s economic and cultural standing​.

The recent excavation of nearly five million cubic meters of material marks a major construction hurdle for the project. This process was essential for laying the foundations of the Mukaab and its surrounding podiums. The sheer scale of this work highlights the ambition behind New Murabba. This phase’s successful completion demonstrates the project’s progress and brings it one step closer to reality​.

The Mukaab, a cubic marvel

The Mukaab is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the entire project. Standing 400 meters tall, wide, and long, it will be one of the largest structures in the world. Reports claim it will be able to fit 20 Empire State buildings.

What sets it apart is its unique design—an immersive cubic building that will feature a wide range of experiences powered by cutting-edge technologies. This architectural marvel is expected to attract global attention and establish Riyadh as a city of the future​.

In July, the New Murabba Development company unveils its design for the 45-000 seating capacity New Murabba Stadium. Its construction will run in parallel with that of the Mukaab, although it will finish three years early, by 2030.

What’s next for New Murabba

The New Murabba project plays a key role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. In line with this vision, the development will generate jobs, attract international businesses, and create a vibrant urban environment. By integrating technology and sustainability, New Murabba will set new standards for urban living, making Riyadh a destination for innovation and culture​.

With the excavation phase now complete, attention turns to the next steps. Over time, the project will soon move into piling and foundation work, laying the groundwork for the Mukaab. In addition, New Murabba is actively seeking partnerships with world-class design and engineering firms to bring the project’s vision to life. These collaborations will play a critical role in ensuring the project’s success and maintaining its high standards of innovation and quality​.

Overall, the completion of the New Murabba excavation marks a significant achievement in one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious projects. As the Mukaab rises, it promises to become a global icon, symbolizing Riyadh’s transformation into a modern metropolis. With each milestone, the project takes another step toward creating a world-class destination embodying its Vision 2030 aspirations.

Photo: Saudi Press Agency