The desert state is planning the next bold giant project. A skyscraper in the shape of a cube is being built in the middle of the Saudi capital Riyadh – opening a gateway to a new world.
A utopian world.
In which people travel virtually to Mars. Immerse yourself in fantasy worlds or in an underwater landscape. Or very basic: one where you can go on vacation, buy an apartment or rent office space.
Riyadh is being expanded by 19 square kilometers for the project called “New Murabba” (New Square) and will be home to hundreds of thousands of people. The building will be 400 meters high, wide and deep. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced that the volume of the block would be enough to accommodate 20 Empire State Buildings.
A gateway to another world: #TheMukaab will be the world’s first immersive, experiential destination. The global icon is big enough for 20 Empire State Buildings and contains innovative technologies to transport you to new worlds.#NewMurabbahttps://t.co/5R4DqQdPyS pic.twitter.com/vr9M8cTI1I
— Public investment fund (@PIF_en) February 16, 2023
Between past and future
The shape of the building is very reminiscent of the Kaaba in Mecca, the main shrine of Muslims. There is about 800 kilometers as the crow flies between the future utopian city and the birthplace and holiest city of Islam.
However, the planned center is not intended to attract pilgrims, but to stimulate tourism. The country is trying to reduce its dependence on oil and shake off its image of a conservative state.
Capitalism: The New Religion in Saudi Arabia
The question is whether the mega project – based on the house of God – will appeal to Arab circles. Murtaza Hussain, a journalist at The Intercept, tweeted: “A new shrine is soon to be built next to the Kabaa in Saudi Arabia. But this is not dedicated to God, but to capitalism».
Building a new Kabaa exclusively dedicated to capitalism is a little too high on the agenda. https://t.co/qQtwxoFYdd
— Murtaza Hussain (@MazMHussain) February 16, 2023
Apart from the utopian plans, a technology and design university and numerous cultural and entertainment venues will be built in the mega building. The building will be surrounded by its own transport system, an enormous green zone and walking and cycling paths that should improve the quality of life (especially for the rich).
The project is part of the so-called Saudi Vision 2030 – and is expected to open its doors along with the other utopian buildings in seven years.
(cst)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
