SOM has unveiled Retal Heights, presenting two exciting design concepts at the Cityscape Global event in Riyadh. The design concepts were showcased at Saudi Arabia’s leading real estate platform for innovation and urban transformation. Developed in collaboration with Retal Urban Development Company and Ajdan Real Estate Development Company, the proposals include Retal Heights and the Ajdan Towers, each envisioning a distinct yet complementary future Riyadh.
Aligned with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, both projects capture the Kingdom’s rapid growth in shaping a progressive and sustainable urban future. Retal Heights is envisioned as two refined towers rising from a shared podium, presented at Cityscape through a tactile timber model that reflects its design and response to Riyadh’s climate and cultural context. The Ajdan Towers adopt a similar twin-tower approach, forming a vibrant mixed-use destination that unites commercial spaces, branded residences, and retail around a shared podium with event spaces and a tranquil water garden.
Each tower is thoughtfully designed with a distinct purpose, forming a striking addition to Riyadh’s evolving skyline. Two towers with a podium form the design; one tower is dedicated to a luxury hotel and branded residences, while the other houses private apartments in a range of layouts, offering tailored living experiences. The project featuring panoramic views of the city unfolds with a carefully curated suite of amenities, including fine dining destinations, international cafés, wellness facilities, and leisure spaces.
The architectural vision for the Retal Heights is deeply informed by Riyadh’s climate, cultural context, and evolving identity, reflecting the six guiding principles of the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Design. The six principles include continuity, people-centered design, authenticity, sustainability, innovation, and liveability. The towers join a distinguished portfolio of upcoming landmarks in Riyadh, alongside forward-looking projects such as the KAFD’s Conference Center, Vertical Medina, Muqarnas Tower, and the Avenues, joining the studio’s ongoing role in shaping the city’s future skyline.
The twin towers are envisioned as a lifestyle destination, where architecture supports a refined and effortless way of living. Rental Heights presents a modern interpretation of luxury, seamlessly blending comfort, privacy, and thoughtful design. At their base, a shared podium anchors the towers as a vibrant social hub, bringing people together through flexible event spaces, landscaped settings, and a tranquil water garden.
At the Cityscape Global event, Retal Heights presented an impressive two-meter-tall timber model, offering a tangible glimpse into the project’s refined architectural vision. Members of SOM’s Middle East team, including Brian Kleiver and Alexander Drachenberg, were present alongside project partners. The presentation positioned the project as a forward-looking statement, revealing Retal Heights as a future architectural icon set to redefine contemporary luxury on Riyadh’s skyline.
Retal Heights Project Proposal Details
Project name: Retal Heights Design Proposal (Retal Heights with Retal Urban Development Company and Ajdan Towers with Ajdan Real Estate Development Company)
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Designer: SOM
Year: Design Concepts (2025)
Photography: SOM | Alexander Drachenberg and Yasser Mohammad (Cityscape event)
