Burj Khalifa Tops The World: Explore Top 5 Tallest Buildings Defining Global Skylines – News18

Last Updated:May 20, 2025, 11:57 IST

Tall buildings are marvels of modern engineering, symbolising progress and ambition.

In a world filled with breathtaking skyscrapers, one structure soars above the rest—the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. As the tallest building on Earth, it stands as a striking symbol of modern innovation and architectural mastery. Measuring a staggering 828 metres (2,717 feet) in height, the Burj Khalifa commands the skyline and holds its title with unmatched grandeur. Here’s an in-depth look at this extraordinary feat of design and engineering.

Officially inaugurated in 2010, this iconic structure has pushed the boundaries of architecture and engineering. More than just a skyscraper, it stands as a testament to human ambition and cutting-edge design.

Why Is the Burj Khalifa So Tall?

The Burj Khalifa’s record-breaking height is a result of pioneering engineering and smart structural planning. Inspired by the Hymenocallis flower, its Y-shaped floor plan effectively reduces wind pressure on the building. Built to endure seismic activity and extreme weather, the tower is capable of slight movement to adapt to temperature shifts and strong winds.

Its foundation is equally impressive—supported by 125 reinforced concrete piles, each measuring 1.5 metres in diameter and extending 50 metres deep. Construction involved over 12,000 workers from around the world, spanning from 2004 to 2010.

Top 5 Tallest Buildings In The World (2023–2024)

Burj Khalifa, Dubai – 828 m

The tallest structure on the planet, this skyscraper set a new benchmark for global architecture and continues to inspire future projects.

Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur – 679 m

Combining modern design with cultural symbolism, this Malaysian tower features a spire that reflects the country’s national heritage.

Shanghai Tower, China – 632 m

With its spiraling structure, the Shanghai Tower represents innovation and growth, standing tall in the heart of a thriving metropolis.

Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower, Mecca – 601 m

Located near the Grand Mosque, this iconic tower includes the world’s largest clock face and serves millions of pilgrims each year.

Ping An Finance Centre, Shenzhen – 599 m

This sleek and modern skyscraper is a hub of finance and business, showcasing China’s rapid economic rise.

Fascinating Facts About the Burj Khalifa

Concrete Equivalent to 100,000 Elephants

The structure used over 330,000 cubic metres of concrete—enough to match the weight of approximately 100,000 elephants.

Aluminium Equal to Five Airbus A380s

The exterior features 103,000 square metres of glass and 15,500 square metres of decorative steel. The aluminium used weighs as much as five Airbus A380 jets.

One of the Fastest Elevators in the World

Elevators inside the tower travel at 10 metres per second, taking just around 60 seconds to reach the 124th-floor observation deck.

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Over 1,000 Art Installations

Inside the Burj Khalifa are more than a thousand artworks by celebrated artists from around the world, chosen to highlight themes of unity and culture.

Eco-Conscious Design

The building recycles condensation from its air conditioning systems for irrigation. Additionally, rooftop solar panels heat over 140,000 litres of water daily, promoting sustainable energy use.

The Burj Khalifa stands not just as a feat of engineering, but as a beacon of human ingenuity and imagination. With its groundbreaking height, eco-conscious technology and artistic flair, it continues to captivate and inspire people across the globe.

Location :

Delhi, India, India

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