Imagine hanging 300 meters above the ground, with the sun blazing during the day, and temperatures at night not dropping below 30 °C — all while installing dozens of lights on the glass façade of an iconic skyscraper. That was exactly the nature of our recent project for the world’s largest light festival — Noor Riyadh Festival in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
It was a challenge — technical, physical, and logistical. And just the kind we enjoy most.
Rope Access the IRATA Way: Safe Even at 300 Meters
Our work was carried out according to the strict standards of the IRATA system (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association), a globally recognized methodology for working at height using rope access. The reason is simple — maximum safety, efficiency, and professionalism.
Throughout the operation, we managed the installation of lighting on two of the most prominent landmarks in the Saudi capital:
Al Faisaliah Tower – a 267-meter-high skyscraper with its iconic golden dome.
Kingdom Tower – standing at 302 meters, known worldwide for its futuristic shape and large cut-out at the top.
Installing Above a Dome and Inside a Windy Cut-out
On Al Faisaliah Tower, we installed lighting directly above a luxury restaurant located in the dome. Working in the confined space beneath a curved structure required precision, tight coordination within the team, and meticulous rigging of all equipment.
On Kingdom Tower, we worked within the open cut-out near the top of the building. There, we not only faced extreme height, but also strong air currents — making every move dependent on advanced rope access techniques and carefully planned execution.
Planning: No Detail Left to Chance
A project like this begins long before the actual installation. During the preparation phase, we closely collaborated with the light installation designers, project management team, engineering firm, and safety specialists. Every technical aspect had to be carefully assessed — from how the lights would be mounted to how the technicians would move along the façade.
It wasn’t just about getting people and lights up there — we had to do it efficiently, safely, and without disrupting the building’s operation or the festival’s flow.
Day and Night – Following the Desert’s Rhythm
Due to extreme daytime temperatures, we often worked at night. Night work at height comes with its own challenges: a different pace, limited visibility, fatigue. But with a well-coordinated team and reliable equipment, we completed every shift to 100%.
The installation took several days, with multiple teams working in rotation. The result was a precisely illuminated façade that became a true highlight of the festival.
Results That Shine (Even From a Distance)
When the lights finally came on and the city admired the outcome, we knew every hour of planning and every minute spent hanging on a rope was worth it.
It was another demonstration that professional rope access work isn’t just about physical strength — it’s about expertise, systems, and trust in your team.
Need Lighting in a Hard-to-Reach Place? We’ve Got You Covered.
If you’re looking for a partner who can handle technically demanding height access projects — whether it’s for advertising, maintenance, inspection, or lighting — we’re ready to collaborate. Locally or internationally. Day or night. Always with respect for height, space, and your vision.
📩 Get in touch with us and discover what we can achieve at height — for you.
