The growth of skyscrapers has accelerated rapidly over the last 20 years. This is partly due to necessity; many cities are growing so quickly, the only way to accommodate people is by building upwards rather than outwards.
Super tall structures are a relatively new phenomenon. The Great Pyramid of Giza, standing at 146.5 m (481 ft) tall, was the tallest structure in the world for 3,871 years (2560 BC – 1311 AD). It held this record until 1311 when Lincoln Cathedral stole the tallest structure crown with a height of 160 (525 ft). It held this title until a storm destroyed its central spire in 1549. You would expect buildings to have been built higher and higher around this time, however that is not what happened. The tallest structure in the world in 1889 was the Washington Monument in Washington DC. That was only 9 metres higher than Lincoln Cathedral, which was built 578 years earlier. That same year the Eiffel Tower was completed in Paris. At 300 metres high, it can be considered the start of our march towards the sky.
I spoke about the tallest structures in history in April. Today I would like to walk you through the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Skyscrapers are fascinating. It is difficult not to be in awe of such a tall structure when you are standing at the bottom looking up….or standing at the top looking down. I find it amazing how humans have developed fully-functional buildings into the sky. So let’s take a look at the tallest skyscrapers in the world in 2013.
* This list only includes skyscrapers, therefore structures such as radio and television towers have not been included in the list.
* Some skyscrapers have been built in a complex with an identical tower by its side (e.g. Petronas Towers 1 & 2). They have been listed as one entry in this list.
* Skyscrapers that have topped out (i.e. when the last beam is placed at the top of the building), but have yet to be opened, have also been included in the list.
1. Burj Khalifa
Official Website: burjkhalifa.ae/en/
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 828 m (2,717 ft)
Floors: 163
Built: 2010
There is one word to describe the Burj Khalifa: Wow! Known as Burj Dubai before it was completed, the skyscraper dominates the Dubai landscape. The previous tallest skyscraper in the world was Taipei 101, though the Burj Khalifa took the crown easily in 2007, three years before it was even completed. The final size of the building is over 50% taller than Taipei 101 .
The skyscraper holds a number of records such as most floors, tallest building and highest elevator. It also has the highest restaurant and nightclub in the world.
The Kingdom Tower, which started getting built in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, two months ago, is planned to be a whopping 1,000 metres high; however, that is not scheduled for completion until 2018. So it looks like the Burj Khalifa is going to hold onto the title as the tallest skyscraper in the world for another five years.
2. Shanghai Tower
Location: Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Height: 632 m (2,073ft)
Floors: 121
Built: 2014
Topped out in August 2013, Shanghai Tower is due for completion sometime in 2014. Built upon a former driving range in the Lujiazui district of Shanghai, the skyscraper will officially be the second tallest building in the world on its completion. The tower will be one of many super skyscrapers in the area.
3. Abraj Al Bait (Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel)
Location: Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Height: 601 m (1,971 ft)
Floors: 120
Built: 2012
The Abraj Al Bait has to be one of the most interesting skyscrapers in the world. It towers above the most important Islamic mosque in the world, Mecca. Whilst most modern skyscrapers stand alone, Abraj Al Bait is part of a series of buildings with its tall clock tower standing above. In addition to having the largest clock face in the world, it also has the most floor space of any skyscraper. To put its floorspace into perspective: Only one airport has more room than it (T3 of Dubai International Airport).
The building was not without its opponents. To make way for the building, the Saudi government destroyed the historic Ottoman citadel Ajyad Fortress.
4. One World Trade Center
Official Website: onewtc.com
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 541 m (1,776 ft)
Floors: 104
Built: 2013
Built upon the site of the destroyed World Trade Centers in New York, the One World Trade Center was originally going to be called Freedom Tower. The top of the building was only finished last month, however it is not planned to open until 2014. It is a stylish skyscraper that fits in well with the famous New York landscape.
5. Taipei 101
Official Website: taipei-101.com.tw
Location: Taipei, Taiwan
Height: 509 m (1,670 ft)
Floors: 101
Built: 2004
Officially the tallest skyscraper in the world from 2004 to 2010, Taipei 101 was the first skyscraper to be reach over 500 metres in height. It was designed to withstand typhoons, which is why it has the world’s largest tuned mass damper. It was also designed to withstand earthquakes and is so efficient that it still holds the title as the world’s most green building (i.e. eco-friendly, not its colour).
Representing an Asian pagoda, Taipei 101 got its name for its location and number of floors.
6. Shanghai World Financial Center
Official Website: swfc-shanghai.com
Location: Shanghai, China
Height: 492 m (1,614 ft)
Floors: 101
Built: 2008
The futuristic Shanghai World Financial Center has the same number of floors as Taipei 101, but is slightly smaller due to a lack of spire at the top. It was the second tallest building in the world when it opened in 2008.
The adjacent Shanghai Tower, which you can see being constructed in the photo below, is scheduled to be completed in 2014. It is already taller than Shanghai World Financial Center, and upon completion it will be a massive 632 metres in height.
7. International Commerce Centre
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 484 m (1,588 ft)
Floors: 118
Built: 2010
Completed in 2010 and opened a year later, the International Commerce Centre dominates the Union Square development in West Kowloon. It is known for having the world’s highest swimming pool on its top floor.
8. Petronas Tower
Official Website: petronastwintowers.com.my
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Height: 452 m (1,483 ft)
Floors: 88
Built: 1998
The Petronas Towers were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 (the remain the tallest twin-buildings). Both buildings are connected at the base and via a bridge on the 41st and 42nd floors.
Interestingly, the Petronas stole the title of the tallest buildings in the world from Willis Tower due to its spires at the top.
9. Zifeng Tower
Official Website: zifengtower.com
Location: Nanjing, China
Height: 450 m (1,476 ft)
Floors: 89
Built: 2009
Zifeng Tower is a multi-use skyscraper that was opened at the end of 2010. The design is divided into different sections, with each section being used for a different purpose (e.g. office, retail).
10. Willis Tower (Formerly Sears Tower)
Still referred to by many by its former name Sears Tower, Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world between 1973 and 1998. It is very popular with tourists, who can go to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor and look down on the streets below in a glass balcony.
Official Website: /www.willistower.com
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 442 m (1,450 ft )
Floors: 108
Built: 1973
11. Kingkey 100
Location: Shenzhen, China
Height: 442 m (1,449 ft)
Floors: 100
Built: 2011
Boasting 100 floors, Kingkey 100 is a tall office building that holds a hotel in the top floors.
12. Guangzhou International Finance Center
Official Website: gzifc.com
Location: Guangzhou, China
Height: 440 m (1,440 ft)
Floors: 103
Built: 2010
Previously known as Guangzhou West Tower, the 103 floor Guangzhou International Finance Center is going to be part of the Guangzhou Twin Towers. The second tower is called Chow Tai Fook Centre (formerly Guangzhou East Tower) and will be 90 metres taller. It is not due to be completed until 2017.
13. Marina 101
Official Website: marina101.com
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 432 m (1,417 ft)
Floors: 101
Built: 2014
In 2011 the outer structure was completed, yet the full building has not been completed as yet. It is due to be completed in 2013 and be opened in 2014. Upon its launch, it will be the tallest residential building in the world.
14. Trump International Hotel and Tower
Official Website: trumphotelcollection.com/chicago
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 423 m (1,389 ft)
Floors: 98
Built: 2009
Trump International Hotel and Tower is a beautiful skyscraper that stands above the Chicago river. It has residential and hotel space. It was designed to blend in with the surrounding area, with each setback being the same height as a building in the surrounding area.
15. Jin Mao Tower
Official Website: jinmao88.com/en/jinmao_edifice.htm
Location: Shanghai, China
Height: 421 m (1,380 ft)
Floors: 88
Built: 1999
Standing to the side of the taller Shanghai World Financial Center building, Jin Mao Tower was designed with proportions around the number 8 (which is lucky within Chinese Culture). It was designed to withstand typhoons and strong earthquakes.
16. Princess Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 414 m (1,358 ft)
Floors: 101
Built: 2012
Currently the tallest residential building in the world. It is located within the Marina district of Dubai and was only completed near the end of 2012.
17. Al Hamra Firdous Tower
Official Website: alhamra.com.kw
Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait
Height: 413 m (1,354 ft)
Floors: 77
Built: 2011
One of the most unique and stylish skyscrapers in the world. Al Hamra Firdous Tower holds the title of the tallest sculpted tower in the world. The stone part of the building was designed to adds protection from the strong Kuwait sunshine.
18. 2 International Finance Centre
Official Website: ifc.com.hk
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 412 m (1,352 ft)
Floors: 88
Built: 2003
The International Finance Centre contains two skyscrapers. The tallest has 88 floors whilst the smaller one has 55 floors. It is known for being one of the tallest office buildings in the world.
19. 23 Marina
Official Website: hircon-me.com
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 395 m (1,296 ft)
Floors: 89
Built: 2012
23 Marina is one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. It has a whopping 57 swimming pools within its tower.
20. CITIC Plaza
Location: Guangzhou, China
Height: 391 m (1,283 ft)
Floors: 80
Built: 1997
CITIC Plaza holds the title of being the tallest concrete building in the world. When it was completed, it was one of the top ten buildings in the world.
21. Shun Hing Square
Location: Shenzhen, China
Height: 384 m (1,260 ft)
Floors: 69
Built: 1996
The second tallest building in Shenzhen after Kingkey 100. It is predominantly used for offices and retail.
22. The Domain Tower (Central Market Project)
Official Website: wtcad.ae
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Height: 381 m (1,251 ft)
Floors: 88
Built: 2012
The Central Market Project is a complex of three skyscrapers that is scheduled to open this year. The tallest tower is called Domain Tower and is set to be the tallest building in Abu Dhabi.
23. Empire State Building
Official Website: esbnyc.com
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 381 m (1,250 ft)
Floors: 102
Built: 1931
Even to this today, the iconic Empire State Building is probably the most famous skyscraper in the world. No other building has been captured on film as much. It’s art-deco style is still loved by many today its outdoor observatory at the top has been visited by over 100 million people
The Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world from from 1931 to 1972, and is still the third tallest in the United States.
24. Elite Residence
Official Website: eliteresidencecondos.com
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 380.5 m (1,247 ft)
Floors: 87
Built: 2012
Elite Residence is another residential skyscraper in Dubai. It has 695 apartments and a range of different services for residents such as spas and gyms.
25. Tuntex Sky Tower
Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Height: 378 m (1,240 ft)
Floors: 85
Built: 1997
The Tuntex Sky Tower has a great looking design that resembles something like a skyscraper. The design is apparently inspired by the chinese character for tall.
26. Central Plaza
Official Website: centralplaza.com.hk/eng/index.php
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 374 m (1,227 ft)
Floors: 78
Built: 1992
Central Plaza was the tallest reinforced concrete building in the world when it was completed in 1992. It still holds the title for the highest church in the world inside a skyscraper.
27. Bank of China Tower
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 367 m (1,205 ft)
Floors: 70
Built: 1990
The Bank of China Tower is a famous skyscraper in Hong Kong that has been applauded for its beautiful design. It was the tallest building in Asia when it was completed in 1990.
28. Bank of America Tower
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 366 m (1,200 ft)
Floors: 54
Built: 2009
A billion dollar project that was completed in 2009. It was designed with many environmental features. The building was made using lots of recycled material and captures water for reuse.
29. Almas Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 363 m (1,191 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2009
A beautiful skyscraper that had the title of being the tallest in Dubai when it was completed. The title was quickly lost when Burj Khalifa was completed.
30. The Pinnacle
Location: Guangzhou, China
Height: 360 m (1,181 ft)
Floors: 60
Built: 2012
Inspired by the famous Empire State Building in New York, The Pinnacle is currently the third tallest in Guangzhou.
31. SEG Plaza
Official Website: seg.com.cn
Location: Shenzhen, China
Height: 356 m (1,168 ft)
Floors: 70
Built: 2000
Completed in only three years, SEG Plaza boasts an observation tower that lets you see Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
32. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Tower 1 and 2
Official Website: marriott.com/hotels/travel/dxbjw-jw-marriott-marquis-hotel-dubai
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 355 m (1,234 ft)
Floors: 82
Built: 2012
A skyscraper with 82 floors is always going to grab attention. Placing two towers of the same height next to each other will stop traffic. The complex holds the title of the world’s tallest hotel.
33. Emirates Office Tower
Official Website: boulevarddubai.com
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 355 m (1,163 ft)
Floors: 54
Built: 2000
Another complex that is connected to a second tower. Emirates is situated next to the slightly smaller Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel building.
34. Aon Center
Official Website: aoncenter.info/toc.cfm
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 346 m (1,136 ft)
Floors: 83
Built: 1973
Originally known as the Standard Oil Building, Aon Center was completed in the early 1970’s. It is the second tallest skyscraper in Chicago after Willis Tower. Interestingly, the outer surface of the tower was originally designed using marble, however this proved to be unsafe, so it was replaced with granite.
35. The Center
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 346 m (1,135 ft)
Floors: 73
Built: 1998
Structured entirely from steel, The Center is an iconic skyscraper that was featured in The Dark Knight.
36. Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower
Official Website:
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
Height: 345 m (1,132 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2011
Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower is the second tallest building in Vietnam and the tallest in the capital Hanoi. With a floor area of over 600,000 m2, it is one of the biggest skyscrapers in the world by volume.
37. John Hancock Center
Official Website: 360chicago.com
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 344 m (1,128 ft)
Floors: 100
Built: 1969
Completed in 1969, the John Hancock Center was the tallest building in the world outside of New York. It boasts the world’s highest ice skating rink and its iconic design can be seen in movies throughout the last forty five years.
38. Ahmed Abdul Rahim Al Attar Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 342 m (1,122 ft)
Floors: 76
Built: 2010
Due for completion in 2014, Ahmed Abdul Rahim Al Attar Tower will be one of the tallest residential buildings in the world.
39. Mercury City Tower
Official Website: mercury-city.com
Location: Moscow, Russia
Height: 339 m (1,112 ft)
Floors: 75
Built: 2013
Mercury City Tower is known for being Europe’s tallest building. It is distinguishable by the copper that is used on the building’s walls.
40. Hefei Feicui TV Tower
Location: Hefei, China
Height: 339 m (1,112 ft)
Floors: 75
Built: 2013
A stunning skyscraper that is situated in the east of China.
41. Tianjin World Financial Center
Location: Tianjin, China
Height: 337 m (1,105 ft)
Floors: 79
Built: 2010
Located in the populous city of Tianjin, the World Financial Center is a modern skyscraper that is used for a variety of uses.
42. The Marina Torch
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 337 m (1,105 ft)
Floors: 79
Built: 2011
Skyscrapers normally stand out, however The Marina Torch is situated in an area that has many skyscrapers. When it was completed in 2011, it became the tallest residential building in the world.
43. Shimao International Plaza
Location: Shanghai, China
Height: 333 m (1,094 ft)
Floors: 61
Built: 2005
A 60 floor skyscraper that hosts the super expensive Le Royal Méridien Shanghai hotel.
44. Rose Tower
Official Website: rotana.com/rayhaanhotelandresorts/unitedarabemirates/dubai/roserayhaanbyrotana
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 333 m (1,093 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2007
Home of the Rose Rayhaan Rotana hotel, Rose Tower is famous for being alcohol free. It was the world’s tallest hotel until 2012.
45. Modern Media Center
Location: Changzhou, China
Height: 332 m (1,089 ft)
Floors: 57
Built: 2013
A modern skyscraper that is close to being completed in Changzhou, China.
46. Minsheng Bank Building
Official Website:
Location: Wuhan, China
Height: 331 m (1,087 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2007
Another Chinese super skyscraper. When the top of the skyscraper was finished in 2006, it was the 18th tallest building in the world.
47. China World Trade Center Tower 3
Official Website:
Location: Beijing, China
Height: 330 m (1,083 ft)
Floors: 74
Built: 2009
The China World Trade Center probably looks a little familiar to you. That is perhaps due to its similarity to the World Trade Center buildings that were destroyed in New York in 2001.
48. Ryugyong Hotel
Official Website: ryugyong.org
Location: Pyongyang, North Korea
Height: 330 m (1,083 ft)
Floors: 105
Built: 1992
I have always been a fan of skyscrapers that are not hidden by other tall buildings. Which is why I find the Ryugyong Hotel so impressive. Against the smaller buildings in the capital of North Korea, the hotel can be seen from dozens of miles. Interestingly, the building was topped out in 1992, however the building was not fully completed until 20 years later.
49. The Index
Official Website: up.ae/index
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 328 m (1,076 ft)
Floors: 80
Built: 2010
The Index is a unique skyscraper that has been optimised to protect inhabitants from the hot desert sun of Dubai.
50. Al Yaqoub Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 328 m (1,076 ft)
Floors: 69
Built: 2013
Due for completion in 2013, the Al Yaqoub Tower is situated upon the busy Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.
51. Longxi International Hotel
Location: Huaxi Village, China
Height: 328 m (1,076 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2011
Looking like something that was made in the future, the Longxi International Hotel is one of the most unique skyscrapers in the world.
52. The Landmark
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Height: 324 m (1,072 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2012
A modern skyscraper that was completed in Abu Dhabi last year.
53. Deji Plaza Phase 2
Location: Nanjing, China
Height: 324 m (1,072 ft)
Floors: 62
Built: 2013
Currently under construction, Deji Plaza Phase 2 topped out in 2012.
54. Q1
Official Website: q1.com.au
Location: Gold Coast, Australia
Height: 323 m (1,058 ft)
Floors: 80
Built: 2005
Located in Surfer’s Paradise in Australia, Q1 was the tallest residential building in the world until 2011. Its design is apparently inspired by the Sydney 2000 Olympic torch and the Sydney Opera House.
55. Wenzhou World Trade Center
Location: Wenzhou, China
Height: 322 m (1,056 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2010
The tallest skyscraper in the city of Wenzhou, the World Trade Center is used as office space and a hotel.
56. Burj Al Arab
Official Website: jumeirah.com
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 321 m (1,053 ft)
Floors: 60
Built: 1999
Iconic, beautiful, amazing. The Burj Al Arab is one of the most famous hotels in the world. Standing on a man-made island, the hotel is marketed as being the world’s only seven star hotel.
57. Nina Tower
Official Website: ninatower.com.hk/tch
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 319 m (1,049 ft)
Floors: 80 & 42
Built: 2007
Nina Tower consists of two towers of 80 and 42 floors. It was originally designed to be the tallest building in the world, however its height was restricted due to its proximity to Chek Lap Kok Airport.
58. Chrysler Building
Official Website: tishmanspeyer.com/properties/chrysler-center
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 319 m (1,047 ft)
Floors: 77
Built: 1930
Less famous than the Empire State Building, but arguably more beautiful, the Chrysler Building is an iconic skyscraper that is known for its art deco style. It was the tallest building in the world for 11 months.
59. New York Times Building
Official Website: newyorktimesbuilding.com
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 319 m (1,046 ft)
Floors: 52
Built: 2007
As the name suggests, the New York Times Building is home to the The New York Times. It is a modern building that has many green features which promote energy efficiency.
60. HHHR Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 317 m (1,042 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2010
Another skyscraper that is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, HHHR Tower is one of the highest residential buildings in the world.
61. Bank of America Plaza
Official Website: bentleyforbes.com/bank-of-america-plaza/
Location: Atlanta, USA
Height: 317 m (1,040 ft)
Floors: 55
Built: 1992
Shaped like a pencil, Bank of America Plaza is a beautiful skyscraper that dominates that Atlanta skyline. It was completed in only fourteen months. Its design is inspired by art deco skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.
62. Moi Center
Location: Shenyang, China
Height: 311 m (1,020 ft)
Floors: 75
Built: 2013
A complex of three towers. The tallest tower is 311 metres high, with the smaller towers being 188 metres and 163 metres high respectively.
63. U.S. Bank Tower
Official Website: mpgoffice.com/USBankTower
Location: Los Angeles, USA
Height: 310 m (1,018 ft)
Floors: 73
Built: 1989
Originally known as the Library Tower, the U.S. Bank Tower is the tallest building in California. For fifteen years it was the tallest building in the world with a roof-top heliport and the whole building was designed to resist earthquakes.
64. Menara Telekom
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Height: 310 m (1,017 ft)
Floors: 55
Built: 2001
Designed to resemble a bamboo shoot, Menara Telekom complex hosts a 2,500 person theatre hall and a large prayer room.
65. Ocean Heights
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 310 m (1,017 ft)
Floors: 82
Built: 2010
Completed in 2010, Ocean Heights is currently the fifth tallest residential building in the world. It is located in the Dubai Marina district of Dubai.
66. Sky Tower
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Height: 310 m (1,017 ft)
Floors: 74
Built: 2010
Located on Al Reem Island, Sky Tower offers a mix of residential and office space.
67. Pearl River Tower
Location: Guangzhou, China
Height: 310 m (1,016 ft)
Floors: 71
Built: 2012
An eco-skyscaper that is known for being one of the most ecological friendly buildings in the world. It was built with many modern features such as raised floors ventilation, cooling ceilings, wind turbines and solar collectors.
68. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel
Official Website: jumeirah.com/en/
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 309 m (1,014 ft)
Floors: 56
Built: 2000
A 56 floor hotel that is connected to the smaller Emirates Office Tower.
69. Eurasia Tower
Official Website: Eurasiatower.ru
Location: Moscow, Russia
Height: 308.9 m (1,013 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: Estimated 2014
A modern skyscraper that is currently under construction in Moscow, Russia. It was topped out in 2012.
70. Franklin Center
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 307 m (1,007 ft)
Floors: 60
Built: 1989
A retro designed skyscraper that is currently the fifth tallest in Chicago. It is primarily used for office and retail space.
71. Cayan Tower
Official Website: Cayan.net/cayan-tower.php
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 306 m (1,005 ft)
Floors: 76
Built: 2013
Known as Infinity Tower before it was completed, Cayan Tower was designed by the same company that designed the Burj Khalifa and Trump Tower in Chicago. Its unique 90 degrees twisting design sets it apart from all other buildings in the area.
72. One57
Official Website: one57.com
Location: New York City, USA
Height: 306 m (1,004 ft)
Floors: 75
Built: 2013
Once One57 is completed, it will be one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. The 10,923-square-foot duplex penthouse at the top of the skyscraper was sold for more than $90 million dollars in 2012.
73. East Pacific Center Tower A
Location: Shenzhen, China
Height: 306 m (1,004 ft)
Floors: 85
Built: 2013
A skyscraper complex that contains four buildings. The two tallest buildings are reserved for residential use whilst the two smaller buildings will be used for offices.
74. The Shard
Official Website: the-shard.com
Location: London, UK
Height: 306 m (1,004 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2012
Designed to resemble a shard of glass, The Shard is the tallest building within the European Union. Its beautiful structure dominates the London skyline; a city which does not have many tall buildings.
75. The Address Downtown Burj Khalifa
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 306 m (1,004 ft)
Floors: 63
Built: 2008
A beautiful five star hotel and residential skyscraper that is located closed to the Burj Khalifa.
76. JPMorgan Chase Tower
Official Website: chasetower.com
Location: Houston, USA
Height: 305 m (1,002 ft)
Floors: 75
Built: 1982
Famed for being the tallest building in Texas and the tallest five-sided building in the world. It was partially damaged in 2008 due to Hurricane Ike.
77. Etihad Tower 2
Official Website: etihadtowers.com
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Height: 305 m (1,002 ft)
Floors: 79
Built: 2011
A skyscraper complex that contains five different buildings (yes…five!). The buildings range in size from 218 metres to 305 metres, with tower 2 being the tallest.
78. Northeast Asia Trade Tower
Location: Incheon, South Korea
Height: 305 m (1,001 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2010
Apparently the most expensive private real estate project ever taken on, the Northeast Asia Trade Tower is the largest building in South Korea.
79. Baiyoke Tower II
Official Website: baiyokehotel.com
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Height: 304 m (997 ft)
Floors: 85
Built: 1997
Baiyoke Tower II can be seen from almost anywhere in Bangkok. It is the tallest building in the city, tallest hotel in Southeast Asia and the fourth tallest hotel in the world. The observation tower at the top of the building lets you see for many miles.
80. Two Prudential Plaza
Official Website:
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 303 m (995 ft)
Floors: 64
Built: 1990
Built using reinforced concrete, Two Prudential Plaza currently has the unique distinction of being the tallest building in the world under 1,000 feet.
81. Moi City
Location: Wuxi, China
Height: 303 m (994 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2013
A new skyscraper that is due to be completed.
82. Leatop Plaza
Official Website: leatop.com
Location: Guangzhou, China
Height: 303 m (993 ft)
Floors: 65
Built: 2011
A modern glass and steel skyscraper located in Guangzhou.
83. Wells Fargo Plaza
Official Website: wellsfargoplaza.com/home.axis
Location: Houston, USA
Height: 302 m (992 ft)
Floors: 71
Built: 1983
Wells Fargo Plaza is the tallest glass building in the Western hemisphere. The skyscraper offers direct access to the Houston tunnel system.
84. Kingdom Centre
Official Website: kingdomcentre.com.sa
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Height: 302 m (992 ft)
Floors: 41
Built: 2002
The second tallest skyscraper in Saudi Arabia is easily recognisable by its inverted parabolic arch in the top of its structure. At the very top of the building is a 56 metre skybridge and the main building contains a hotel and many state of the art apartments.
85. Gate of the Orient
Location: Suzhou, China
Height: 302 m (990 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2014
Due for completion in 2014, the Gate of the Orient is intended to represent a gate to China and the significance of Suzhou as a city.
86. Moscow Tower (City of Capitals)
Official Website: capitalcity.ru/en/
Location: Moscow, Russia
Height: 302 m (989 ft)
Floors: 76
Built: 2010
City of Capitals is a complex in Moscow that features two towers: One representing Moscow and one representing St. Petersberg. The 76 floor tower is known as Moscow Tower whilst the 65 floor tower is known as St. Petersburg Tower.
87. We’ve the Zenith Tower
Location: Busan, South Korea
Height: 301 m (987 ft)
Floors: 80
Built: 2011
A complex of three residential towers that was designed by the same company that designed Taipei 101. Tower A is the tallest with a height of 301 metres. In total there are 1,788 apartments.
88. Aspire Tower
Location: Doha, Qatar
Height: 300 m (984 ft)
Floors: 36
Built: 2007
Designed as a centrepiece for the 2006 Asian Games, Aspire Tower is supported by a reinforced-concrete cylinder in its core. Due to its design, it is sometimes known as the torch.
89. Arraya 2
Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait
Height: 300 m (984 ft)
Floors: 60
Built: 2009
A grade-A office tower that has a 45-metre spire at the top.
90. Gran Torre Santiago
Official Website: www.costaneracenter.cl
Location: Santiago, Chile
Height: 300 m (984 ft)
Floors: 64
Built: 2014
Estimated for completion in 2014, Gran Torre Santiago was topped out in 2012. It is the tallest building in South America and the second tallest in the Southern hemisphere. It is primarily used for offices.
91. One Island East
Official Website: islandeast.com/eng/index.htm
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Height: 298 m (979 ft)
Floors: 67
Built: 2008
A commercial skyscraper that is located on Island East in Hong Kong.
92. Shanghai Wheelock Square
Location: Shanghai, China
Height: 298 m (978 ft)
Floors: 58
Built: 2009
A modern skyscraper in Shanghai that is used for offices.
93. First Canadian Place
Official Website: myfirstcanadianplace.ca
Location: Toronto, Canada
Height: 298 m (978 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 1976
First Canadian Place is Canada’s tallest skyscraper and the sixth tallest in the world when it was initially completed. It is the home to many broadcasting institutions in radio and tv.
94. Four World Trade Center
Official Website: eurekaskydeck.com.au
Location: New York, USA
Height: 298 m (977 ft)
Floors: 72
Built: 2012
Four World Trade Center is part of the new World Trade Center complex in New York. One World Trade Center is taller and the second and third towers that are being built will be higher too.
The original Four World Trade Center was destroyed in the terrorist attacks of 2001.
95. Eureka Tower
Official Website:
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Height: 297 m (975 ft)
Floors: 91
Built: 2006
A beautiful stylish skyscraper that had the title of being the world’s tallest residential tower when it was initially completed. It features an observation deck on the 88th floor and a glass viewing cube that extends from it that allows viewing.
96. Comcast Center
Location: Philadelphia, USA
Height: 297 m (975 ft)
Floors: 57
Built: 2008
A beautiful glass skyscraper that was designed with many modern ecological features. It uses 40% less water than other office buildings and low-emissivity glass blocks 60% of heat but allows 70% of sunlight to go through.
97. Yokohama Landmark Tower
Official Website: yokohama-landmark.jp/page/
Location: Yokohama, Japan
Height: 296 m (972 ft)
Floors: 73
Built: 1993
Yokohama Landmark Tower is the tallest skyscraper in Japan and the third tallest structure after Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. It contains a hotel, shops, offices and clinics.
98. Emirates Crown
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 296 m (971 ft)
Floors: 63
Built: 2008
A residential tower that is situated in Dubai Marina.
99. Islamic Bank Office Tower
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 294 m (964 ft)
Floors: 49
Built: 2011
Also known as Central Park Towers, the complex contains two skyscrapers. The taller has 49 floors and stands at 294 metres. The smaller building has two more floors, yet its height only reaches 261 metres.
100. Khalid Al Attar Tower 2
Location: Dubai, UAE
Height: 294 m (964 ft)
Floors: 61
Built: 2010
A modern skyscraper that hosts the Millennium Plaza Hotel.
101. 311 South Wacker Drive
Official Website: 311southwacker.com/home.axis
Location: Chicago, USA
Height: 293 m (961 ft)
Floors: 65
Built: 1990
When it was completed in 1990, 311 South Wacker Drive had the title of the tallest reinforced concrete building in the world. It has a range of retail and office clients.
102. Trump Ocean Club International Hotel & Tower
Official Website: trumpoceanclub.com
Location: Panama City, Panama
Height: 293 m (961 ft)
Floors: 68
Built: 2011
A waterfront condominium and hotel skyscraper that sits right on the beach. It is the tallest building in Panama and contains shops, a hotel and a casino.
I hope you enjoyed this list of the tallest 101 skyscrapers in the world. What was your favourite building? Please let me know in the comment area 🙂
Thanks,
Kevin
Update 27 November 2013: Shanghai Tower added to Number 2 position.
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The second I came onto your blog again you posted a new post! Strange.
It’s quite depressing that I’ve only been to/inside 3 of these
I’ve been to several. I didn’t realise how many I had been in before I did the list. Some of the newer skyscrapers are amazing.
I have never really been enticed by Dubai. Shopping malls in the middle of the desert doesn’t appeal to me; however the sheer number of skyscrapers there does. Could be worth a holiday there just to check some of them out.
You made a mistake to add the Shanghai Tower at #2 – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shanghai_Tower
Thanks for noticing Sari. It wasn’t a mistake, per say. The tower had not been topped out when I wrote this article. There are so many skyscrapers being built that this list changes almost every week. I have added Shanghai Tower to the number two position 🙂