I would like to have the option to keep my xcode project open regardless of closing all tabs using cmd + w.
Xcode 26 close the project when closing all tabs using cmd + w
Enhancements to Xcode's functionality should be filed through Feedback Assistant so the appropriate teams can consider the request. It would be helpful to detail why you'd like Xcode to behave as you describe and how that would help your development workflows when you file that.