Mukaab

February 23, 2023

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In News

Saudi Arabia unveiled its latest grand plan to transform its capital city Riyadh called the Mukaab – “cube” in Arabic.

About

The Mukaab is among the ambitious architectural projects planned and undertaken by Saudi Arabia as a part of its Vision 2030, aimed at revolutionising the country’s economy and lifestyle.
It will stand 400 metres high, wide and long, big enough to hold 20 Empire State Buildings.
The cubic shape of the Mukaab will ensure the ultimate utilisation of space.

Architectural Style

The Mukaab will be built using the modern Najdi architectural style – a twist on the traditional Najdi architectural style from the Najd region in the centre of the Arabian peninsula.
This architectural style was perfected over generations to be best suited for the region’s desert climate – its design focuses on naturally controlling the climate inside the structure.

Najdi Architectural Style

Najdi architecture is one of the most prevalent architectural patterns in Saudi Arabia.
Najdi architecture combines three main factors: The need to respond to the hot desert climate, the need for privacy in residential buildings, and the need to use locally available materials such as mud brick, stone and wood.
In contemporary adaptations, Najdi buildings are characterized not only by traditional materials, but also their use of thermal and environmental elements.