The modern skyline is defined by towering skyscrapers that push the boundaries of engineering and architectural design. These buildings not only serve as symbols of technological prowess but also reflect the ambitions of the cities that host them. In this article, we explore the 20 tallest buildings in the world, from the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai to newer constructions that continue to redefine the limits of vertical living and working spaces. These architectural marvels represent human ingenuity at its finest, each contributing to the global race to touch the sky.
1. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE (828 meters / 2,717 feet)
The Burj Khalifa has been the tallest building in the world since its completion in 2010. Standing at 828 meters (2,717 feet), it dominates the Dubai skyline. This architectural marvel has 163 floors above ground and two additional levels below ground. The building is a symbol of Dubai’s rapid growth and ambition to be a global hub for business and tourism. It features offices, residential apartments, and the prestigious Armani Hotel. Visitors can ascend to observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors to take in breathtaking views of the city and desert.
2. Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (678.9 meters / 2,227 feet)
Merdeka 118, located in Kuala Lumpur, is the second tallest building in the world and is set to be fully completed by 2024. Standing at 678.9 meters (2,227 feet) with 118 floors, this building represents Malaysia’s growing stature in global architecture. It is named after the nearby Merdeka Stadium, where Malaysia declared independence. The mixed-use tower will include office spaces, retail outlets, luxury residences, and a hotel. Its design draws inspiration from Malaysian culture, and it is set to become an iconic landmark in Southeast Asia.
3. Shanghai Tower, Shanghai, China (632 meters / 2,073 feet)
The Shanghai Tower, completed in 2015, is the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world at 632 meters (2,073 feet). Its 128 floors host office spaces, hotels, and cultural facilities, making it a hub of activity in Shanghai’s financial district. The building’s distinctive spiraling form helps reduce wind loads, and it incorporates several environmentally friendly features, including a rainwater recycling system and double-layered glass façade that improves energy efficiency. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck on the 118th floor.
4. Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, Mecca, Saudi Arabia (601 meters / 1,972 feet)
The Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, part of a government-owned complex in Mecca, stands at 601 meters (1,972 feet). Completed in 2012, it is the fourth tallest building in the world and features the world’s largest clock face. The tower is primarily a hotel, accommodating pilgrims visiting the nearby Masjid al-Haram, the holiest site in Islam. The complex also includes residential apartments, a shopping mall, and a conference center. Its unique location and religious significance make it one of the most visited buildings globally.
5. Ping An Finance Centre, Shenzhen, China (599 meters / 1,965 feet)
The Ping An Finance Centre in Shenzhen reaches a height of 599 meters (1,965 feet), making it the fifth tallest building in the world. Completed in 2017, the 115-story tower is a symbol of Shenzhen’s rapid development as a global financial hub. It houses offices, retail spaces, and a conference center. The building’s sleek design and advanced engineering allow it to withstand typhoon-level winds, a critical feature in this coastal city. Visitors can access observation decks to get sweeping views of Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
6. Lotte World Tower, Seoul, South Korea (555.7 meters / 1,823 feet)
Lotte World Tower in Seoul is the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest in the world at 555.7 meters (1,823 feet). Completed in 2016, the tower features 123 floors, with spaces for retail, offices, residences, and a luxury hotel. It also houses observation decks, including the highest glass-bottomed observation deck in the world. The building’s sleek, tapered design is inspired by traditional Korean ceramics. Lotte World Tower has become a prominent landmark in Seoul, offering stunning views of the city and beyond.
7. One World Trade Center, New York City, USA (541.3 meters / 1,776 feet)
One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, standing at 541.3 meters (1,776 feet) to symbolize the year of American independence. Completed in 2014, it is the centerpiece of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan. The 104-story skyscraper serves as a symbol of resilience and renewal following the 9/11 attacks. Its design includes advanced safety features, and its observation deck provides panoramic views of New York City, making it a popular tourist destination.
8. Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, Guangzhou, China (530 meters / 1,739 feet)
The Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre stands 530 meters (1,739 feet) tall, making it the eighth tallest building in the world. Completed in 2016, the 111-story skyscraper is located in Guangzhou’s Zhujiang New Town district. It is a mixed-use building that houses offices, residential units, and a hotel. The tower’s innovative design features a distinctive double-layer façade that improves its energy efficiency. It also has one of the world’s fastest elevators, reaching speeds of up to 20 meters per second.
9. Tianjin CTF Finance Centre, Tianjin, China (530 meters / 1,739 feet)
The Tianjin CTF Finance Centre, completed in 2019, stands at 530 meters (1,739 feet) and is tied for the eighth tallest building in the world with its counterpart in Guangzhou. The tower features 98 floors and is designed to house offices, luxury residences, and a hotel. Its sleek, tapering design is meant to minimize wind resistance and reduce structural loads. The building is an important part of Tianjin’s growing role as a financial and commercial hub in northern China.
10. CITIC Tower, Beijing, China (528 meters / 1,732 feet)
The CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, is the tallest building in Beijing and ranks as the tenth tallest in the world. Standing at 528 meters (1,732 feet), the tower was completed in 2018 and features 108 floors. Its design is inspired by a traditional Chinese wine vessel known as a zun, giving the building a distinctive curving silhouette. The tower houses offices and is a key feature of the Beijing central business district.
11. TAIPEI 101, Taipei, Taiwan (508 meters / 1,667 feet)
TAIPEI 101, completed in 2004, held the title of the world’s tallest building for six years until it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa. Standing at 508 meters (1,667 feet), it is the 11th tallest building in the world today. The tower features 101 floors above ground and five underground. Its unique design incorporates traditional Asian elements and advanced engineering to withstand earthquakes and typhoons, making it one of the most structurally resilient skyscrapers globally. TAIPEI 101 serves as a major financial and business hub, with offices, restaurants, and an observatory that offers panoramic views of Taipei.
12. Shanghai World Financial Center, Shanghai, China (492 meters / 1,614 feet)
The Shanghai World Financial Center, completed in 2008, is a prominent feature of Shanghai’s skyline, standing at 492 meters (1,614 feet) tall. With its signature rectangular aperture at the top, often referred to as the “bottle opener,” the building houses offices, hotels, and retail spaces across its 101 floors. It is located in Shanghai’s financial district and is a key part of the city’s status as a global financial center. The observation deck on the 100th floor provides stunning views of the Huangpu River and neighboring skyscrapers, including the Shanghai Tower.
13. International Commerce Centre, Hong Kong (484 meters / 1,588 feet)
The International Commerce Centre (ICC) in Hong Kong is the tallest building in the city and the 13th tallest in the world. Completed in 2010, the ICC stands at 484 meters (1,588 feet) with 118 floors. It is part of the Union Square complex, which includes luxury residential buildings, a shopping mall, and a major transportation hub. The ICC houses offices, a hotel, and an observation deck known as Sky100, offering sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline.
14. Central Park Tower, New York City, USA (472 meters / 1,550 feet)
Central Park Tower, completed in 2020, is the tallest residential building in the world and the 14th tallest overall, standing at 472 meters (1,550 feet). Located on Manhattan’s Billionaire’s Row, this 98-story skyscraper offers some of the most expensive apartments globally, with unparalleled views of Central Park and the New York skyline. The building’s sleek design and luxurious amenities make it a symbol of opulence and modern architecture. It is home to both high-end residences and retail spaces, catering to New York’s elite.
15. Lakhta Center, Saint Petersburg, Russia (462 meters / 1,516 feet)
The Lakhta Center in Saint Petersburg is the tallest building in Russia and Europe, standing at 462 meters (1,516 feet). Completed in 2019, this 87-story tower is the global headquarters of Gazprom, one of the largest energy companies in the world. The Lakhta Center’s twisting design reduces wind load on the structure and gives the building a dynamic, modern appearance. It also features sustainable design elements, such as energy-efficient systems and a façade that helps regulate indoor temperatures. The tower houses offices, retail spaces, and public observation decks, becoming a key landmark in Saint Petersburg.
16. Landmark 81, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (461.2 meters / 1,513 feet)
Landmark 81 is the tallest building in Vietnam and the 16th tallest globally, reaching 461.2 meters (1,513 feet). Completed in 2018, this mixed-use skyscraper is located in Ho Chi Minh City and is a centerpiece of the Vinhomes Central Park development. The tower features luxury apartments, a hotel, offices, retail spaces, and an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city and the Saigon River. Its modern design reflects the city’s rapid growth and aspirations to become a global financial hub.
17. Changsha IFS Tower T1, Changsha, China (452 meters / 1,483 feet)
Changsha IFS Tower T1, completed in 2018, is the tallest building in Changsha and stands at 452 meters (1,483 feet), ranking 17th in the world. The 94-story tower is part of the larger Changsha IFS complex, which includes retail spaces, offices, luxury residences, and a hotel. The building’s design combines modern architecture with functional spaces that cater to both business and leisure. Its central location and commanding height make it a key feature of Changsha’s urban landscape.
18. Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (451.9 meters / 1,483 feet)
The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur are perhaps one of the most recognized skyscrapers in the world. Standing at 451.9 meters (1,483 feet), these twin towers were the tallest buildings globally from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin buildings in the world. Completed in 1998, the towers house offices, a shopping mall, and an observation deck. Their design, inspired by Islamic architecture, reflects Malaysia’s cultural heritage. The towers are connected by a sky bridge on the 41st and 42nd floors, which is open to visitors.
19. Zifeng Tower, Nanjing, China (450 meters / 1,476 feet)
Zifeng Tower, also known as Greenland Center-Zifeng Tower, stands at 450 meters (1,476 feet), making it the 19th tallest building in the world. Completed in 2010, the 89-story skyscraper is located in Nanjing, China, and houses offices, a hotel, and retail spaces. The building’s sleek, modern design is a prominent feature of the Nanjing skyline, and its observation deck offers panoramic views of the city and the Yangtze River. Zifeng Tower is an important symbol of Nanjing’s modernization and economic growth.
20. The Exchange 106, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (445.1 meters / 1,460 feet)
The Exchange 106, completed in 2019, is the second tallest building in Malaysia and ranks 20th globally, standing at 445.1 meters (1,460 feet). The tower is part of the Tun Razak Exchange, a major financial district in Kuala Lumpur. The 95-story skyscraper is primarily used for office spaces and has quickly become a key player in Malaysia’s efforts to position itself as a global financial hub. The building’s modern design and central location make it an important part of Kuala Lumpur’s ever-evolving skyline.