Mall of Arabia
Jeddah’s Icon of Retail Roof Engineering
Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Completion Year:2008
Scope of Work:Design, Engineering, Fabrication & Installation
Individual Project Area: 22,000 m²
Structural Steel Weight:1,200 tons
Steel Width:1,200 tons
Key Materials:PTFE Membrane Carbon Steel Structures Arch & Ring Trusses Flying Masts
Mall of Arabia
Jeddah’s Icon of Retail Roof Engineering
As a flagship retail development on the Red Sea coast, the Mall of Arabia required a striking tensile roofing system to serve both as a visual icon and a climate-adaptive solution. Tamimi Steel & Membrane engineered and delivered one of the largest membrane roof systems in the region, ensuring durability, efficiency, and architectural impact.
The roof spans 22,000 m² and combines flying masts, arch and ring trusses, and perimeter steel framing to achieve long-span coverage and structural stability. The PTFE membrane panels form a lightweight yet powerful enclosure, optimized for light diffusion and thermal comfort.
The steelwork used carbon steel pipes and cold-rolled beams (ASTM A53 G-A / SASO SSA 1011), assembled with stiffeners and gusseted connections. The system integrates flying masts and compression rings to distribute membrane tension and wind loads effectively across the span
The tensile roof is integrated with the mall’s main façade, acting as both a cover and a light-filtering element. The PTFE fabric allows controlled natural light, reducing HVAC load while preserving a bright, open atmosphere for shoppers.
Structure and Cultural Form
The tensile structure’s elegant curves and elevated masts provide a dynamic form that redefines the retail experience. It reflects both engineering rigor and architectural flair—perfectly aligned with the mall’s positioning as a premium destination.
