Lamar Towers

Lamar Towers Jeddah Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Lamar Towers, now also known as Sumou Towers, are among the most prominent architectural landmarks on the Jeddah Corniche, Saudi Arabia. These twin skyscrapers, rising along the Red Sea waterfront, symbolize Jeddah’s aspiration to become a global urban center. Conceived in 2007, the towers have undergone periods of financial challenge and revitalization, culminating in their current status as a modern mixed-use development that features luxury residences, commercial outlets, and leisure amenities. Their impressive heights—reported between 320 and 385 meters—afford panoramic views of the Red Sea and Jeddah’s dynamic cityscape. The complex’s proximity to cultural gems like Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city’s famed Corniche makes the towers a pivotal destination for visitors.

Despite historic construction delays and a transition in ownership, the towers—now under the Sumou brand—remain a focal point for both residents and tourists. While upper residential and office floors are private or still in development, public podium areas with shopping, dining, and promenades are accessible, offering a taste of Jeddah’s modern luxury and vibrant urban life. This comprehensive guide covers visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, architectural highlights, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your time at one of Saudi Arabia’s most impressive skyscraper complexes. For real-time updates, reference official resources such as the Lamar Towers Official Site, the Jeddah Tourism Board, and the KASKTAŞ project page.

Contents Overview

Welcome to Lamar Towers: Jeddah’s Architectural Marvel
Origins and Development Timeline
Visiting Lamar Towers: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Architectural Features and Urban Integration
Exploring the Surroundings: Jeddah Corniche and Nearby Attractions
Socio-Economic Impact and Urban Significance
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Architectural Vision and Urban Context
Structural Engineering Highlights
Design Features and Aesthetic Elements
Practical Visitor Information
Visitor Experience
Visual and Media Resources
Sumou Towers: Project Status & Future Facilities
Essential Contacts and Planning Resources
Summary & Recommendations

Welcome to Lamar Towers: Jeddah’s Architectural Marvel

Standing tall along the Corniche, Lamar Towers offer a unique blend of luxury living, commercial activity, and breathtaking Red Sea vistas. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or architecture enthusiast, this guide will help you plan an insightful visit to one of Jeddah’s most iconic skyscrapers.

Origins and Development Timeline

Launched in 2007 during Jeddah’s economic boom, Lamar Towers were designed to anchor the city’s evolution into a cosmopolitan hub. The project occupies a 34,800-square-meter site on the prestigious Corniche, featuring two high-rise towers—T1 (322 meters, 57 floors) and T2 (293 meters, 49 floors)—set atop a 13-floor podium with luxury residences and commercial amenities (Global Construction Review). Construction was interrupted by the global financial crisis, but revived in 2013 with new investment and a $460-million contract to complete the towers. After further transitions—including a change in ownership to Sumou Holding Company—the towers are structurally topped out, with final interior works underway as of 2025 (ArabMLS).

Visiting Lamar Towers: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Public Areas: The podium’s retail and dining spaces are open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The Corniche promenade surrounding the towers is accessible 24/7.
Tickets: General entry to public spaces is free. Special events or exhibitions may require tickets—check the official website or the Jeddah Tourism Board for current details.
Accessibility: Lamar Towers are equipped with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and dedicated parking to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Guided Tours: Regular guided tours are anticipated to begin mid-2025. Until then, occasional tours and special events are announced via official channels.

Architectural Features and Urban Integration

Lamar Towers’ modern, twin-tower design, connected by a sweeping podium, is a defining feature of Jeddah’s skyline. The 13-floor podium merges retail, leisure, and communal areas, creating a lively mixed-use environment. The towers’ location ensures panoramic Red Sea views and seamless integration with the Corniche, making them a highlight for architecture fans and tourists.

Exploring the Surroundings: Jeddah Corniche and Nearby Attractions

Lamar Towers are ideally located for exploring Jeddah’s top waterfront and cultural destinations:

Jeddah Corniche: Parks, walking and cycling paths, public art, and gardens.
King Fahad’s Fountain: The world’s tallest fountain, especially stunning at night.
Al Rahma Mosque (Floating Mosque): An architectural marvel just north on the Corniche.
Al-Balad (Historic Jeddah): A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional souqs and historic architecture (Jeddah Tourism).
Red Sea Mall, Al Shallal Theme Park, ATHR Gallery, and Nassif House Museum: All within easy reach for shopping, family fun, art, and history.

Socio-Economic Impact and Urban Significance

Lamar Towers are instrumental in Jeddah’s transformation into a diversified, global city. Attracting international residents, businesses, and visitors, the towers support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and add value to the Corniche district, enhancing Jeddah’s profile as a business and tourism destination.

Tips for Visitors

The best photo spots are along the Corniche promenade, especially at sunset with the Red Sea as a backdrop.
For a lively atmosphere and illuminated towers, visit in the evening.
Combine a trip to Lamar Towers with nearby historical and cultural sites for a well-rounded Jeddah experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there observation decks open to the public?
A: There is currently no dedicated observation deck, but retail and dining areas offer scenic views.

Q: Is there parking available?
A: Yes, ample parking is provided, including accessible spaces.

Q: Are events or exhibitions held at Lamar Towers?
A: Occasionally, yes. Check the official website or local event listings.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Late afternoon into the evening offers comfortable weather and the best lighting for photos.

Architectural Vision and Urban Context

The twin towers, connected by a 13-floor podium, integrate residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in a vertical, mixed-use complex. The podium serves as both a structural support and a social hub, with retail outlets and communal zones that blend seamlessly into the urban fabric.

Structural Engineering Highlights

Built on a challenging coral limestone foundation, the towers feature deep excavations, advanced diaphragm walls, and extensive pile systems tested with the Osterberg Cell method. These engineering solutions ensure structural stability and minimize environmental impact (KASKTAŞ project page).

Design Features and Aesthetic Elements

Twin Tower Configuration: Maximizes natural light and sea views.
Podium Integration: Transparent glazed facades with public access.
Facade Treatment: Reflective glass and steel for energy efficiency and visual appeal.
Vertical Zoning: Retail and leisure spaces below, luxury residences and offices above.
Sustainability: Innovative foundations and facade orientation to reduce energy use.

Practical Visitor Information

Location: Northern Corniche, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Getting There: Accessible by car, taxi, or ride-hailing services; parking is available.
Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended in line with local customs.
Safety: Lamar Towers features advanced security and emergency response systems.

Visitor Experience

Public podium areas offer upscale shopping, diverse dining, and stunning Red Sea views. The surrounding Corniche promenade is perfect for strolls, photography, and enjoying Jeddah’s coastal atmosphere.

Visual and Media Resources

Explore high-quality images, videos, and interactive maps on the KASKTAŞ project page and the official Lamar Towers website for a virtual preview of the towers and their amenities.

Sumou Towers: Project Status & Future Facilities

With ownership transitioned to Sumou Holding Company, the towers—now branded Sumou Towers—are structurally topped out, with interior finishing underway. Once opened, the complex will feature:

Luxury apartments and penthouses
Commercial office spaces
A shopping mall with international brands and fine dining
Leisure, wellness, and fitness facilities
Multi-level parking for residents and visitors
Event and conference venues

Public access to these amenities is expected after the project’s completion and official opening (anticipated post-2025; check for updates).

Essential Contacts and Planning Resources

Lamar Towers Official Site
Visit Jeddah
Jeddah Tourism Board
KASKTAŞ project page
Emergency: 999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance), 998 (Fire)

Summary & Recommendations

Lamar Towers (Sumou Towers) stand as a testament to Jeddah’s rapid urban transformation, blending world-class architecture, luxury amenities, and cultural significance. While not all areas are currently accessible, visitors can enjoy public podium spaces, nearby attractions, and the lively Corniche. The towers’ future opening will further enhance Jeddah’s appeal with premium residences, retail, leisure, and event facilities.

Stay informed via the official Lamar Towers website, Jeddah Tourism Board, and KASKTAŞ project page for the latest updates, ticketing details, and visitor services. For a seamless experience, download the Audiala app for curated guides, real-time updates, and exclusive offers.