A new Kaaba of commercialism in Riyadh?

Exterior of the 400m by 400m by 400m structure, the Mukaab, set to be built in Riyadh by 2030, represents Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s latest plan for a massive structure in the Saudi capital. Resembling the holy Kaaba in Mecca, the Mukaab will be the centerpiece of The New Murabba, a neighborhood aimed at attracting tourists to a new commercial Mecca. This gargantuan edifice is expected to measure big enough to fit 20 Empire State buildings inside, offering visitors a shape-shifting fantasy experience. Additionally, the area will consist of green spaces as depicted in renderings and the plan includes the planting of 1 million mangrove trees. However, some have voiced concerns about prioritizing nature and sustainability, rather than building large, futuristic structures. With 100,000 residential units, 1.4 million square meters of office space, and tourist attractions, the Mukaab aims to redefine the city’s downtown area. Saudi Reddit users have expressed mixed opinions, while others have criticized the project for its resemblance to the Kaaba and its relevance to Saudi Arabia’s architectural traditions. The project calls into question the significance of prioritizing nature and sustainability in urban development, as well as potential human rights concerns related to similar developments in the region.