Jeddah Tower architect says 2km skyscrapers are feasible

Gordon Gill, co-founder of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, claims that skyscrapers reaching two kilometres in height are already technically feasible. His firm's Jeddah Tower, set to become the world's first kilometre-tall building, recently reached its 100th floor and is on track for completion in 2028. Gill contrasts the project's progress with other Saudi megaprojects like Neom, stating Jeddah Tower was always a realistic endeavour. The building broke ground in 2013 but faced multiple delays due to financial issues, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the 2017 corruption purges that removed contractor Binladin Group and detained developer Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud. Construction restarted in early 2025. Gill describes the tower's tapered, tripod-like form as extremely efficient. He also notes that Foster + Partners is reportedly working on a two-kilometre-tall skyscraper in Saudi Arabia, though it may take 10–15 years to emerge. Gill envisions future skyscrapers integrating air taxis and drone deliveries, calling it an amazing time for architects.