As of 2026, the global skyline has reached unprecedented heights, with a mix of iconic and recent megatall skyscrapers redefining urban architecture.
Topping the list remains the Burj Khalifa in the UAE at 828 meters with 163 floors. Since its completion in 2010, it has remained the tallest building in the world, featuring the highest nightclub on the 144th floor and the At.mosphere restaurant on the 122nd floor. On a clear day, its spire is visible from over 95 kilometres away.
In Malaysia, Merdeka 118 reaches 678.9 meters with 118 floors. Its spire-heavy design commemorates the nation’s independence and houses the highest Park Hyatt hotel in the world.
China’s Shanghai Tower stands at 632 meters and 128 floors. Known for its 120-degree twist that reduces wind loads, it uses 270 wind turbines to power external lighting and boasts some of the fastest elevators globally.
The Makkah Royal Clock Tower in Saudi Arabia rises 601 meters with 120 floors and features the world’s largest clock faces illuminated by 2 million LED lights visible from 25 kilometres away.
Other Chinese skyscrapers include the Ping An Finance Center at 599 meters with 115 floors and the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre at 530 meters with 111 floors, notable for its terracotta facade.
In South Korea, Lotte World Tower reaches 555 meters with 123 floors, designed to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 9.0 and offering a thrilling glass-bottomed observation deck.
The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center in the USA, stands at 541.3 meters with 94 floors, symbolizing resilience in Lower Manhattan.
While the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia is planned to exceed 1,000 meters, it remains under construction as of 2026 and is expected to take the top spot closer to 2028.
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