Saudi Arabia announced it will start construction on the Kingdom Tower next week, which is projected to be 3,280 feet tall. Upon its completion, it would dethrone Dubai’s Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest building.

This 20 billion dollar project does not come without its challenges. A building this tall will have to withstand high winds and nearby salt water eroding at its base. But if the building’s architects successfully complete the project, the Kingdom Tower would be much more than just the world’s tallest building.

Over the last decade, the title of world’s tallest building has changed hands more than ever before.  This proves that the title is symbolic of many things besides being simply “tall.”  As put by one of its architects, Adrian Smith,”This tower symbolizes the Kingdom as an important global business and cultural leader, and demonstrates the strength and creative vision of its people.”  Saudi Arabia is determined to show power over neighboring Dubai, which is certainly a tall task.

Written by Tristan Rhee’17