5 Architectural Splendors From across the Middle East
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
The Burj Khalifa, which stood at 828 meters when it was finished in 2010, was actually the highest structure in the world as it surpassed Taipei 101 of Taiwan. Numerous world records are held by it, including the highest restaurant in the world and the structure with the most floors (163). Because of its height, the sun sets on the observation deck three minutes later than it does on the ground. You can book your tickets from Get Your Guide, and have a blast!
Makkah Royal Clock Tower, Makkah
The tower, which stands 601 meters tall and is a component of the Abraj Al Bayt complex, provides a view of the Kaaba and the Great Mosque of Makkah. The minute hands alone are 23 meters long, and it features the largest and tallest clock faces in the world, the tower was completed in 2012. You can go see the royal clock during Umrah or Hajj and mesmerize at this beautiful structure.
Al Hamra Tower, Kuwait City
Kuwait’s highest structure is distinguished by its sculpted concrete facade, which is the tallest of its kind in the world. It is 412 meters long and has offices, retail, and a rooftop restaurant. It was finished in 2011. The structure has the impression of a subdued, attractive, and contemporary sculpture of a person dressed in a delicate crystal veil that reflects the shape of the peninsula. If you’re looking to dine in with a view, then you should definitely go treat yourself at The Bowl and munch on some delicious meals.
Burj Mohammed bin Rashid, Abu Dhabi
Developed by Aldar Properties, Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid Residences is a residential skyscraper. This 92-story tower is the tallest building in Abu Dhabi, with a height of 1,251 ft. tall. The building has direct access to the World Trade Centre (WTC). It consists of 474 residential units with 1 to 4-bedroom apartments and 4-bed penthouses. These include spacious balconies that provide a view of the Corniche beach and surrounding urban life. If you love nothing more than shopping, you can go and check out all the brands that you’ll find there like Pandora and H&M.
Desert Sidescraper, Saudi Arabia, NEOM
Plans for a $1 trillion, 75-mile-long, a mirror-glass skyscraper in Saudi Arabia’s desert that will be taller than the Empire State Building in New York have been announced last week. The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that the desert city known as NEOM, will include The Mirror Line. The Mirror Line will span 75 miles of desert, coastal, and mountainous terrain with two 1,600-foot-tall structures running parallel to one another.
It is important to note that the fundamental drawback of skyscrapers is their propensity to dominate cities. With their omnipresence, they frequently isolate people instead of fostering surface-level engagement. People interact in cities, and skyscrapers don’t do much to promote that interaction. However, some people claim otherwise as they are the best way to have as much work or retail space in a few city blocks as possible. This also allows for a larger profit margin, since a tall building often generates more lease income for its owner. We also can’t forget the touristic nature of some of these buildings and how they serve as a touristic destination for many guests.