DIFFERENT regions in Saudi Arabia narrate a unique story steeped in rich culture, heritage and resplendent architecture. From the stone houses adorned with wood carvings in the Aseer region to the prevalent Najdi architecture in Diriyah, the original design of buildings was determined by the weather, geography and local resources.
Saudi Arabia’s buildings, old and new, blend ancient history with a visionary future, combining olden engineering and craftsmanship with modern skyscrapers and pioneering giga projects. For example, the Kingdom Centre Tower in Riyadh, a symbol of modernity, stands in contrast with the ancient mud-brick city of Diriyah, home to the 300-year-old Unesco World Heritage Site in At-Turaif.
Kingdom Centre Tower, Riyadh
Saudi’s bustling capital, home to eight million people, is a vast and vibrant city. The Kingdom Centre Tower, rising boldly against the Riyadh skyline is one of the tallest buildings in the world. With its sleek design and towering presence, the 300-metre-tall tower features a reflective glass wall to combat the heat. Its unique “hole” has a glass Sky Bridge that offers visitors unparalleled views of Riyadh from the 99th floor. The east wing of the Tower houses the Al-Mamlaka shopping mall, featuring over 150 luxury brands stores such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. On its third level, you can dine at Al-Mamlaka Social Dining, a unique dining destination. Among its many floors, the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh sits high within the soaring Kingdom Centre Tower, offering a romantic dinner experience with a panoramic view of Riyadh. Visitors can also visit the highest mosque in Saudi, the King Abdullah Mosque, on the 77th floor.
