Saudi Arabia Pauses Planning of Riyadh’s Cube-Shaped “Mukaab” Project

RIYADH:Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended planning work on the massive cube-shaped building known as the “Mukaab,” which was to form the centerpiece of the New Murabba development in the capital Riyadh, Reuters reported.

The decision was taken to reassess the project’s financial and practical feasibility, signaling a more cautious approach by the kingdom toward large-scale and costly projects under its Vision 2030 agenda.

Saudi Arabia’s $925 billion sovereign wealth fund has begun reviewing its spending priorities and the use of financial resources, leading to the scaling back or postponement of some expensive megaprojects. The kingdom is now shifting focus away from highly ambitious future developments toward projects considered more immediate and potentially profitable.

Experts say priority is being given to infrastructure linked to the 2030 World Expo and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, as well as other major initiatives such as the $60 billion Diriyah cultural zone and the Qiddiya tourism megaproject.

The Mukaab was designed as a giant cube measuring 400 meters in length and width, featuring a dome-like internal structure and the world’s largest AI-powered display, visible from heights of more than 300 meters inside the building.

Project CEO Michael Dyke said at a conference in December that entering the Mukaab would feel like stepping into “another world,” though he acknowledged that delivering such an advanced and unique structure would be extremely challenging.

The future of the project now remains uncertain. Apart from excavation and foundation work, all construction activities have been halted, although surrounding real estate developments will continue.

Saudi Arabia is increasingly directing its financial resources toward sectors expected to deliver quicker returns, including infrastructure, logistics, mining and artificial intelligence. The move comes amid pressure on public finances due to oil prices remaining below desired levels.

Other major projects are also under review. Saudi Economy Minister Faisal Alibrahim said the government is transparently reassessing, postponing or restructuring projects, without naming any specifically. However, the Mukaab has emerged as the first major Riyadh project to be reevaluated on feasibility grounds.