The tallest buildings in the world stand as remarkable symbols of human ambition, engineering brilliance, and architectural innovation. Rising high above city skylines, these skyscrapers are not only functional spaces for business, hospitality, and living, but also iconic landmarks that represent national pride and economic power.
From Asia to the Middle East and North America, each towering structure tells a story of technological advancement and the relentless pursuit of reaching new heights. As of 2025, the competition to build taller and more awe-inspiring skyscrapers continues, reshaping urban landscapes and capturing the imagination of people worldwide.
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai, UAE) – 828 m
Completed in 2010, the Burj Khalifa stands as the tallest building in the world to date, reaching about 828 meters (2,717 feet) and featuring 163 floors above ground . Its design draws inspiration from Islamic architecture with a spiral, Y-shaped layout, and it holds records for feats like the longest-travel distance elevators and the highest restaurant .
The tower houses a luxe mix of residences, corporate offices, and the iconic Atmosphere restaurant perched high on the 122nd floor . It also emits a signature presence in Dubai’s skyline, especially during spectacular New Year’s fireworks and light shows .
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Burj Khalifa is a symbol of modern engineering triumph—its foundation alone required an extraordinary volume of concrete, and its elevator systems and façade technology remain benchmarks in skyscraper innovation .
2. Merdeka 118 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) – ~679 m
Standing around 678.9 meters (~2,227 feet) tall with 118 floors, Merdeka 118 was completed in 2022–2023 and now ranks as the second-tallest building globally . Its design merges modern architecture with Malaysian cultural motifs, including a glass façade pattern reminiscent of homegrown art, and was crafted to symbolize the nation’s independence (“Merdeka”) .
Functionality is multifaceted: housing offices, a luxury hotel, residences, retail outlets, and observation decks—one of which, perched at roughly 566 meters, is among the highest of any observatory in the world . The tower is also envisioned as a key financial and sustainable hub in Kuala Lumpur, incorporating efficient technologies like rainwater harvesting .
As Southeast Asia’s tallest structure, Merdeka 118 not only reshapes KL’s skyline but reinforces Malaysia’s aspirations on the global stage—combining heritage, modernity, and purpose in one striking megatall profile.
3. Shanghai Tower (Shanghai, China) – 632 m
The Shanghai Tower, completed in 2015, rises approximately 632 meters (2,073 feet) over 128 floors, making it the tallest building in China and third globally . Notable for its twisting form, the design effectively reduces wind load by around 24%, showcasing both aesthetic grace and structural ingenuity .
This mixed-use tower includes offices, luxury hotel accommodations, retail space, and one of the fastest elevator systems in the world . Its double-layered glass façade enhances energy efficiency, contributing to its LEED Platinum status and sustainable building reputation .
Architecturally, the Shanghai Tower embodies both vertical beauty and environmental consciousness—setting a new standard for future skyscraper design through its combined performance, form, and function.
4. Makkah Royal Clock Tower (Mecca, Saudi Arabia) – ~601 m
Also known as the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, this building soars about 601 meters (1,971–1,972 feet), completed in 2012 with 120 floors, and ranks fourth in the world by height . It forms part of a government-backed complex designed to modernize Mecca, incorporating hotel facilities and serving millions of pilgrims annually .
Its hallmark feature—the largest clock face in the world—is visible from up to 25 kilometers away, emphasizing its function both as timekeeper and symbolic marker for the holy city .
Beyond its utility, the Clock Tower represents the fusion of religious tradition, civic ambition, and modern luxury—a monumental presence adjacent to the Grand Mosque, blending faith, functionality, and scale.
5. Ping An International Finance Centre (Shenzhen, China) – ~599 m
Completed in 2017, Ping An IFC stands at approximately 599 meters (1,965 feet) and ranks as the fifth tallest building in the world, with 115 floors primarily dedicated to office use . It serves as the headquarters for Ping An Insurance and anchors Shenzhen’s financial district .
Architecturally sleek and modern, the skyscraper features a 360-degree observation deck and integrates smoothly with the surrounding transit and commercial zones in this rapidly evolving metropolis .
The Ping An IFC is a symbol of Shenzhen’s economic dynamism and visionary urban progress—highlighting how contemporary high-rise design meets ecosystem integration and city-building vision.
6. Lotte World Tower (Seoul, South Korea) – ~555 m
The Lotte World Tower, standing roughly 554–555 meters (1,819–1,821 feet) with 123 floors, was completed in 2017 and is the sixth tallest building globally and tallest in South Korea . It combines diverse functions—including offices, a luxury hotel, residential units, retail space, and a concert hall—making it a vertical city .
Visitors can reach an observation deck on the top floors, where they’ll find cafés and gift shops alongside panoramic views of Seoul and beyond .
As a multifunctional urban nexus, the Lotte World Tower exemplifies how modern skyscrapers can deliver cultural, commercial, and communal benefits in a single architectural marvel.
7. One World Trade Center (New York City, USA) – ~541 m
One World Trade Center, completed in 2014, stands approximately 541 meters (1,776 feet) tall, including its spire—a symbolic homage to the US Declaration of Independence year—and is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere .
Architect David Childs’ design married security, symbolism, and modernity, memorializing the Twin Towers through both its presence and function. The building provides office space and hosts a 360-degree observatory with exhibitions and dining areas .
One World Trade Center stands as a powerful emblem of resilience and renewal—boldly redefining New York’s skyline while honoring the past and embracing the future.
8. Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre (Guangzhou, China) – ~530 m
Completed in 2016, the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre is approximately 530 meters tall (around 1,739 feet) and ranks among the top ten tallest globally . This mixed-use skyscraper includes offices, luxury residences, and hotel space.
Its streamlined design and vertical layout contribute seamlessly to Guangzhou’s modern skyline, reflecting both urban growth and architectural elegance.
The tower epitomizes efficient vertical planning and multifunctionality, reinforcing China’s leadership in high-rise, multipurpose developments.
9. Tianjin CTF Finance Centre (Tianjin, China) – ~530 m
Completed in 2019, the Tianjin CTF Finance Centre rises about 530 meters, placing it among the tallest towers in the world. It stands as a symbol of Tianjin’s rapid modernization and urban growth.
The building serves mixed uses, including office space, luxury residences, and possibly hotels, creating a vibrant hub in the city. Its sleek, curving design reduces wind resistance and enhances stability.
Beyond functionality, it represents China’s strong push to expand world-class architecture beyond its Tier-1 cities, highlighting Tianjin’s growing importance on the global map.
10. CITIC Tower (Beijing, China) – ~528 m
Known as “China Zun,” the CITIC Tower reaches 528 meters and was completed in 2018. Its name and design are inspired by an ancient Chinese ritual vessel, blending tradition with modernity.
The tower primarily functions as a commercial and office skyscraper, housing numerous corporations and institutions. Its flowing curves and wide top give it a distinctive silhouette in Beijing’s skyline.
Serving as a landmark in China’s capital, it reflects both cultural heritage and economic strength, reinforcing Beijing as a global business and cultural hub.
11. Taipei 101 (Taipei, Taiwan) – ~508 m
Standing at 508 meters, Taipei 101 held the world’s tallest title from 2004 until Burj Khalifa surpassed it. Its stacked pagoda-like design resembles bamboo, symbolizing resilience and growth.
The building houses offices, a shopping mall, and observation decks. It’s also known for its massive tuned mass damper that helps the tower withstand earthquakes and typhoons.
As a blend of cultural symbolism and engineering innovation, Taipei 101 remains one of Asia’s most admired skyscrapers.
12. Shanghai World Financial Center (Shanghai, China) – ~492 m
Completed in 2008, the Shanghai World Financial Center stands 492 meters tall. Its signature trapezoid opening at the top has earned it the nickname “bottle opener.”
It serves multiple functions, including offices, hotels, and observation decks, positioning itself as a key financial hub in Pudong. Visitors flock to its sky-high platforms for sweeping city views.
With its unique design, the tower remains a defining part of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline.
13. International Commerce Centre (Hong Kong) – ~484 m
The International Commerce Centre, completed in 2010, reaches 484 meters, making it Hong Kong’s tallest building. Its reflective glass façade dominates the Kowloon side of Victoria Harbour.
The tower houses premium offices, retail spaces, and the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, which occupies its upper levels. Its Sky100 observation deck is a major tourist attraction.
ICC symbolizes Hong Kong’s global role in finance and luxury living, blending practicality with prestige.
14. Wuhan Greenland Center (Wuhan, China) – ~476 m
Completed in 2023, the Wuhan Greenland Center stands at 476 meters, bringing the city into the spotlight of supertall skyscrapers.
It was designed to host modern office spaces, luxury amenities, and commercial facilities, strengthening Wuhan’s urban identity.
The tower reflects the city’s rapid transformation into a rising economic powerhouse in central China.
15. Central Park Tower (New York City, USA) – ~472 m
Central Park Tower, completed in 2020, rises 472 meters, making it the tallest residential building in the world.
It features ultra-luxury condos with unparalleled views of Central Park and Manhattan. Its amenities cater exclusively to high-end residents.
The tower showcases New York’s prestige in luxury real estate and stands as a symbol of vertical urban living.
16. Lakhta Center (Saint Petersburg, Russia) – ~462 m
The Lakhta Center, finished in 2019, is Europe’s tallest building at 462 meters. Its spiraling design makes it a striking landmark in Saint Petersburg.
It primarily houses offices, including Gazprom’s headquarters, along with conference halls and public spaces. The tower was built with cold-weather engineering in mind.
The structure stands as Russia’s bold statement in contemporary architecture and innovation.
17. Landmark 81 (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) – ~461 m
Landmark 81, completed in 2018, reaches 461 meters, becoming Vietnam’s tallest building. Its design reflects a modern bamboo bundle, symbolizing prosperity.
The tower includes luxury residences, a hotel, retail areas, and entertainment facilities. Observation decks provide panoramic city views.
It represents Vietnam’s economic growth and urban modernization on the global stage.
18. The Exchange 106 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) – ~454 m
Completed in 2019, The Exchange 106 rises 454 meters as part of Kuala Lumpur’s new financial district.
It mainly serves as an office skyscraper, offering flexible business spaces with modern facilities. Its glass façade glitters across the skyline.
The tower highlights Malaysia’s continuous expansion into global commerce and development.
19. Changsha IFS Tower T1 (Changsha, China) – ~452 m
Changsha IFS Tower T1, finished in 2018, reaches 452 meters and stands as the tallest in Hunan Province.
The skyscraper mixes offices, hotels, and retail complexes, making it a bustling urban hub. Its design emphasizes modernity and efficiency.
As a landmark, it represents Changsha’s growing importance in China’s economic and cultural landscape.
20. Petronas Towers 1 & 2 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) – ~452 m
The Petronas Twin Towers, completed in 1998, both stand 452 meters with 88 floors each. They were once the tallest buildings in the world.
Connected by a double-deck sky bridge, they are home to offices, shopping areas, and tourist attractions. Their Islamic-inspired design makes them instantly recognizable.
They remain Malaysia’s most iconic symbols of modernization and cultural pride.
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