The competition for building the tallest structure in the world has been ongoing for centuries, with new buildings rising higher and higher as engineering and construction technology advances. From the Eiffel Tower to the Empire State Building, many iconic structures have claimed the title of the tallest building globally throughout history. However, in recent years, this competition has become even more intense, with newer and more daring structures taking the lead. In this article, we have explored the top five tallest buildings globally, all of which were constructed in 2010 and beyond. These buildings, located in various parts of the world, showcase the impressive capabilities of modern engineering and architecture. They stand as a testament to human creativity and determination to push the limits of what is possible.
1. Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is an extraordinary building that stands at a staggering height of 2,717 feet. This makes it the tallest recorded building globally, with a height that is twice that of the Empire State Building, which held the title of the world’s tallest building in 1930, less than a century ago. With a total of 163 floors, the tower boasts various amenities such as restaurants, apartments, business suites, and the tallest elevator shaft globally, which offers a breathtaking view to those daring enough to ride to the top. The Chicago-based architectural firm, Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM), designed this colossal tower.
2. Merdeka 118
Merdeka 118, situated in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is the tallest building in Southeast Asia and the second tallest globally, nearing completion. This impressive structure towers 2,220 feet above the city and offers stunning views. Once open, visitors will have the opportunity to climb to the very top of the building’s spire. The building was designed by Australian architects Fender Katsalidis in partnership with the local architectural firm RSP Architects Sdn Bhd. It is set to officially open in mid to late 2023 and boasts a total of 118 floors, named after Malaysia’s Independence Day, Merdeka.
3. Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower, located in Shanghai, China, is currently the third tallest building in the world, standing at an impressive height of 2,073 feet. Its construction, which began in the early 1990s, was plagued by funding issues, causing a nearly 20-year delay before its completion in 2015. American architectural firm, Gensler, designed the building and won the prestigious Architectural Design of the Year award in 2016. The tower features one of the fastest elevators globally, capable of reaching a speed of 20.5 meters per second, which takes visitors up to the top of its remarkable 128 floors. Although Burj Khalifa remains the tallest structure globally, Shanghai Tower boasts the highest number of usable floors inside.
4. Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower
Located in the heart of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower was designed by Lebanese architectural firm Dar Al-Handasah. The tower was completed in 2012 after six years of construction work and stands at an impressive height of 1,972 feet, making it the fourth tallest building globally as of 2023. The building boasts several world records, including having the largest clock face globally, measuring 43 meters in circumference. Additionally, Abraj Al-Bait has the largest floor area of any man-made structure, adding to its impressive status.
5. Ping An International Finance Centre
Ping An International Finance Centre, located in Shenzhen, holds several notable records. Standing at a height of 1,966 feet, it is the tallest building in the city, the second tallest building in China, and the fifth tallest building in the world. The building’s impressive infrastructure was completed by New York architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, while the structure, made from a composite of stainless steel and glass, was designed by New York-based design firm Thornton Tomasetti. The building’s unique design and towering height make it a significant landmark in Shenzhen and China.
In conclusion, these five towering structures are some of the most significant engineering and architectural feats of modern times. From the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building globally, to the Ping An International Finance Centre in Shenzhen, each building holds its unique record and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and innovation. The Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai Tower in China, and the Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower in Mecca, all boast remarkable heights and impressive designs, making them landmarks in their respective cities. With each building being designed and constructed by renowned architects and firms, they showcase the power of human creativity and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.