The Guardian reported on Wednesday, May 21, that the Tiger Group, led by Syrian-Emirati businessman Walid al-Zoubi, intends to apply for a license to begin construction on the high-rise development. “We are studying several sites,” al-Zoubi said, “and we propose building 45 floors, which can be increased or decreased according to the plan.”
Al-Zoubi estimated the tower’s construction cost at between $100 million to $200 million, with an expected timeline of three years, contingent upon legal approval from the Syrian transitional government and securing rights from the Trump Organisation.
“This project is our message,” al-Zoubi added, “that this country, whose people have suffered and been depleted for so many years, especially during the last 15 years of war, deserves to take a step towards peace,” he said.
Once the building permit is secured, al-Zoubi will need to negotiate branding rights with the Trump Organisation. However, the project still faces significant hurdles, including unresolved U.S. sanctions, Syria’s battered economy, and a fragile political climate, according to the report.
Related: How are Lifting Sanctions Used as a Political Tool?
The proposed skyscraper is reportedly part of a broader initiative by the Syrian transitional government to attract U.S. President Donald Trump’s support. The government hopes the project will contribute to efforts to lift American sanctions and normalise ties with Washington. The Guardian noted this proposal came alongside offers of access to Syrian oil and investment opportunities for the United States, as well as assurances regarding Israel’s security.
According to the newspaper, al-Zoubi is expected to travel to Damascus this week to formally submit the application for construction permits.
Al-Zoubi, who has overseen 270 projects across the Middle East, is currently developing the $1 billion Tiger Sky Tower in Dubai, which he claims will feature the world’s highest infinity pool.
In January, he met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s transitional phase, in Damascus.
The idea for a Trump-branded tower in the Syrian capital originated with Congressman Wilson’s remarks to Congress in December. The proposal gained momentum following a meeting on May 14 in Riyadh between President Trump and al-Sharaa, held in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
That meeting followed Trump’s announcement at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh that the United States would lift sanctions on Syria.
