Saudi GazetteCurrently the tallest skyscraper in Saudi Arabia with a height of 302.3 m (992 ft). The third tallest building in the world with a hole (after SWFC and Tuntex Sky Tower). It contains a total of 41 f loors and 2 basement levels. The 56 m (184 ft) long skybridge atop the skyscraper, at a height of 290.4 m (953 ft) top floor, contains a public observation deck and a view of the entire city of Riyadh. The ellipse motif taken from the tower's footprint appears also in the light fixtures, ceiling panels, entrance canopy, waste bins, and furniture. Two magnificent towers stand shimmering amidst white clouds and several tall and extravagant buildings surround them. Many skyscrapers are under construction and one can clearly tell that when completed, they will be architectural masterpieces. No, this is not a description of Chicago's skyline but an impressive illustration of the present scenario of Riyadh, capital city of the Kingdom. The Kingdom tower has become Riyadh's landmark and is a stunning piece of modern architecture. Be it business, pleasure or family engagements, if you visit Riyadh, Kingdom Tower is a must see. Known as the ‘necklace' for its unusual apex, it's particularly conspicuous at night when the upper sweep is lit with constantly-changing coloured lights. A unique feature of the tower is that in one stop you will find everything a tourist wants- shopping mall with the most popular brands, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifting from cafés, elegant restaurants and fast food chains, a spa and hair salon to pamper yourself, a bank, and finally a breathtaking view from the top of the tower. Indeed, the journey up to the top of the Kingdom Tower will make your trip memorable. All you have to do is purchase an elevator ticket which is quite reasonable and costs SR 25 for adults, SR10 for children and free of cost for children below the age of two. The elevators are impressively designed with dotted lights on the celling that represent shining stars in the black sky. The elevator moves up at lightning speed at before you can even catch your breath, it reaches the 99th floor! Once you step on the walkway, you will be awed by the breathtaking view of the city. Birds-view of buildings, streetlights and cars makes the city look majestic. You can also see several landmarks of the capital city, including the Faisaliya Tower with its dazzling huge sphere at the top.To keep the memory with you forever, professional photographers are available to take your picture and give it to you within 10 minutes. One cant help but feel amazed at the spectacular development that the city has witnessed in a short span of time. Barely 25 years ago, the city was filled with nothing but dusty brown sand. In just a quarter of a century the city has boomed with top quality hospitals, excellent educational institutions, high class shopping centers, health spas, restaurants, and much more. The capital city has transformed into one of the richest and most vibrant and flourishing cities in the world. __
