The race to create the tallest building on Earth is far from over. While Burj Khalifa in Dubai currently holds the crown, a thrilling lineup of towering projects is underway across the globe. Each of these colossal skyscrapers represents the cutting edge of engineering and design, fueled by regional ambition and a desire to push the limits of what humanity can build.
Here is an approachable look at some of the tallest buildings under construction or planned, reflecting both innovation and the spirit of competition.
Jeddah Tower: A Kilometer High Vision
The Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia is widely regarded as the next big contender to surpass Burj Khalifa. Construction originally started in 2013, but after some slowdowns, the project regained momentum in 2025. Once completed, it aims to be the first building over one kilometer tall, reaching about 1,008 meters (3,307 feet).
The tower symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s drive to make a mark on the world stage with futuristic architecture and ambitious economic development. It is a bold statement of human ingenuity and the desire to break records.
Dubai’s Growing Skyline: Burj Azizi and Beyond
Dubai remains a hotspot for supertall skyscrapers, with ongoing projects like Burj Azizi, which is planned to reach around 725 meters. In addition, several notable towers are rising in the emirate, including the Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences at 595 meters, Tiger Sky Tower (532 meters), and Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina (517 meters).
These towering structures reflect Dubai’s continuous quest to showcase luxury and architectural innovation on a global platform, further enriching its status as a city of superlatives.
China’s Ambitious Urban Giants
China continues to dominate the skyscraper scene with a host of impressive projects. Goldin Finance 117 in Tianjin, planned for 597 meters, has resumed construction after delays and is expected to finish by 2027. Many other cities, like Nanjing, Chengdu, Wuhan, Shenzhen, are also building high-rise towers frequently exceeding 400 meters.
These buildings support China’s rapid urban expansion and economic growth, often integrating sustainable technologies and modern amenities.
Expanding the Skyline Globally
Tall buildings are also emerging beyond the Middle East and China. Brazil’s Senna Tower, planned to reach 544 meters by 2030, honors Formula One legend Ayrton Senna and signals South America’s ambition in the high-rise arena. Mexico plans Torre Rise at 475 meters, and the Ivory Coast aims to build Tour F to a height of 421 meters.
These developments show that the race for height is truly international, marking a global embrace of vertical urban development.
The Bold Vision of Rise Tower in Saudi Arabia
A project with even more breathtaking ambition is the Rise Tower proposed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This tower, if completed, would soar to 2,000 meters (2 kilometers), dwarfing every existing skyscraper. While still in early planning phases, this project embodies Saudi Arabia’s vision of futuristic urban landscapes and mega-structures designed to transform skylines and inspire awe.
Engineering Challenges and Sustainability
Building higher than ever presents many challenges. Wind forces, seismic considerations, and the weight of materials require innovative engineering solutions. Many new skyscrapers use advanced materials like carbon-fiber composites for strength without excess weight.
Sustainability is also a major focus, with features such as energy-efficient glazing, advanced climate control, rainwater harvesting, and smart building systems employed to minimize environmental impact.
These innovations are key to making ultra-tall buildings more practical and responsible.
Looking Upwards: The Future of Tall Buildings
The drive to exceed previous height records is as much about symbolic achievement as it is about practicality and economic growth. These projects reflect regional pride, investment in futuristic technologies, and the desire to create iconic landmarks.
From the kilometer-high Saudi giants to the cluster of supertalls in Dubai and China, the future skyline promises to be more dramatic and innovative than ever before. As engineers and architects rise to the challenge, we can expect to see tall buildings that not only reach extraordinary heights but also embrace sustainability and smart design to shape the cities of tomorrow.
Image by Felix Dilly from Pixabay
