Unearth The Voyage
Skyscrapers have always captured our imagination, reaching toward the clouds and pushing the limits of what humans can build. Around the globe, cities compete to create the tallest, most impressive towers that redefine their skylines and showcase their ambitions. From the deserts of the Middle East to the bustling streets of Asia and North America, these record-breaking structures tell stories of innovation, culture, and dreams reaching new heights.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa dominates Dubai’s skyline as the world’s tallest building. Completed in 2010, this architectural marvel broke multiple records at its grand opening, including the highest occupied floor and the longest elevator travel distance.
The building represents Dubai’s bold vision to redefine luxury and scale in modern construction. Visitors flock to the “At The Top” observation decks, where they can survey the sprawling desert-cityscape stretching below. Beyond this iconic tower, Dubai’s record-breaking spirit shines through in other mega-projects like super-talls, artificial islands, and even indoor ski slopes.
For travellers, the Burj Khalifa serves as more than just a structure. It’s a focal point for breathtaking city views, high-end hospitality experiences, and a fascinating window into Dubai’s global-city mindset.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Merdeka 118 rises dramatically in Kuala Lumpur as a 118-storey megatall skyscraper, the tallest building in Southeast Asia. At approximately 678.9 metres tall, it became Malaysia’s tallest structure when it opened in early 2024.
Its neo-futurist design incorporates beautiful Malay cultural motifs, making it both a vertical landmark and a powerful national statement. The tower houses office space, a luxury hotel, observation decks, and a retail podium. Situated near historic sites like the old Merdeka Stadium, the height of Merdeka 118 perfectly blends Malaysia’s rich past with its ambitious future.
For visitors, ascending this tower means accessing one of the highest public viewpoints on Earth. You’ll appreciate Kuala Lumpur’s unique blend of modern high-rise ambition and tropical metropolis charm from this incredible vantage point.
Shanghai, China
Shanghai’s skyline features the magnificent Shanghai Tower, soaring to 632 metres as one of the world’s tallest buildings. Located in the bustling Pudong district, the tower houses offices, retail spaces, a hotel, and observation decks, all connected by high-speed elevators that reach dizzying heights.
This record-breaking tower symbolizes China’s urban and economic might. Travellers enjoy panoramic views over the Huangpu River and the historic Bund across the water. The tower’s distinctive spiral-twist design incorporates sustainability innovations and cutting-edge modern engineering techniques.
When visiting, guests experience how this record-tall structure interacts with one of Asia’s busiest city centres. The combination of vertiginous height with dense urban culture, vibrant street life, and futuristic architecture creates an unforgettable experience that captures Shanghai’s dynamic energy.
New York City, USA
On a site of resilience and rebirth stands One World Trade Center, reaching 1,776 feet (541 metres) into the Manhattan sky. It holds the title of tallest building in the United States and serves as a powerful symbol of renewal after the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
Opened in 2014, the tower’s height carries deep symbolism—referring to the year of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Structurally, it incorporates high-security features, advanced architecture, and observation decks offering stunning vistas over Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond.
For travellers, visiting One World Observatory offers more than just views. It provides reflection on history, urban scale, and architectural ambition. The building anchors a site of memory, commerce, and skyline dominance, making it a powerful example of how towers shape city identity.
Shenzhen, China
Ping An Finance Centre rises majestically in Shenzhen’s Futian District to approximately 599.1 metres, making it the tallest building in Shenzhen and China’s second-tallest. Completed in 2017, the tower anchors the city’s modern skyline and reflects Shenzhen’s remarkable transformation from manufacturing centre to global tech and finance hub.
Its design incorporates advanced structural features, including a tapered form for wind resistance and a high-speed elevator system. The observation deck offers sweeping views over the Pearl River Delta and even Hong Kong on clear days.
Visiting Shenzhen gives travellers a front-row seat to one of the world’s fastest-growing metropolitan stories. The record-breaking tower acts as both symbol and vantage point, showcasing how quickly this city has evolved into a major global player.
Seoul, South Korea
Lotte World Tower rises impressively in Seoul to 555 metres and 123 floors, claiming the title of South Korea’s tallest building. Completed in 2017 in the Songpa District (Jamsil), this super-tall skyscraper combines a luxury hotel, retail spaces, offices, and observation decks.
The “Seoul Sky” deck sits near the summit, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The tower’s design draws inspiration from traditional Korean art and geometry, making it not just a height achievement but also a meaningful cultural statement.
For visitors, the tower affords spectacular vistas over the Han River and greater Seoul. Paired with the vibrant neighbourhood and rapid transit access, it offers a dynamic yet accessible “record-tower” experience. Seoul’s blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation comes alive from this incredible vantage point in a major Asian capital.
Beijing, China
CITIC Tower (also known as China Zun) stands proudly in Beijing’s central business district as the city’s tallest building at 528 metres and 109 floors above ground. Completed in late 2018, the tower’s unique design takes influence from an ancient Chinese ritual wine vessel called “zun.”
This creates a distinctive profile that is broader at the base and top, narrower in the middle. It represents Beijing’s modern architectural ambitions while respecting historical contexts.
For travellers, visiting the tower offers a fascinating juxtaposition of modern skyline views and proximity to famed Beijing sites. You can combine a tower visit with historic hutongs or the Forbidden City to experience the captivating swirl of old and new that defines this ancient yet modern capital city.
Guangzhou, China
Guangzhou boasts the impressive Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre, rising to 530 metres and ranking among China’s tallest skyscrapers. Located in the Zhujiang New Town area, the tower forms part of the fast-expanding Pearl River Delta megacity region.
With office floors, hotel suites, and sky-lounges, the tower reflects both economic scale and ambitious design. Its riverside setting allows visitors to enjoy a perfect blend of high-rise vistas and urban river-front promenades.
Visiting Guangzhou provides access to one of China’s major urban growth corridors. The landmark tower blends business, luxury, and skyline spectacle in ways that showcase the city’s rapid development. Travellers can experience how this southern Chinese metropolis combines commercial energy with stunning vertical architecture along the Pearl River.
Hong Kong, China (SAR)
Hong Kong’s skyline features impressive structures like the International Commerce Centre, standing at approximately 484 metres among the tallest in the city and region. Located in Kowloon, the tower overlooks the famous Victoria Harbour and serves as a major mixed-use skyscraper.
It houses a hotel, offices, and observation areas that give visitors spectacular views. For travellers, the tower serves as a perfect vantage point to appreciate one of the world’s most renowned city skylines—especially magical at dusk when the harbour and buildings light up in brilliant colors.
Hong Kong’s unique mix of vertical density, iconic harbour views, and super-tall towers make it an essential stop for anyone interested in record-tower cities. The energy and architecture create an unforgettable urban experience.
Chicago, USA
Chicago is home to the legendary Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), reaching approximately 442.1 metres and once holding the title of world’s tallest building. Though not currently the tallest globally, its historical significance and Chicago’s famous architecture-tour culture make it an important “record tower” destination.
Visitors can experience the thrilling Skydeck, where they step out onto a glass ledge and gaze down onto the city grid and Lake Michigan beyond. The views are absolutely breathtaking and slightly terrifying!
Chicago’s record-tower heritage blends beautifully with river-architecture tours and neighbourhood vibrancy. The city offers a rich visitor experience deeply rooted in skyscraper culture, making it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the history of tall buildings.
Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei 101 stands proudly in Taiwan’s capital, reaching 508 metres and holding the title of world’s tallest building when completed in 2004. It remains an iconic structure and major visitor attraction featuring high-speed elevators and impressive observation levels.
For travellers, Taipei 101 offers not only stunning skyline views but also access to Taiwan’s vibrant city life, bustling night markets, and easy access to beautiful mountainous surroundings. The tower represents the early era of super-tall towers in Asia.
As a durable record-breaker turned beloved landmark, it continues to draw millions of visitors each year. The building’s distinctive design and cultural significance make it a symbol of Taiwan’s technological prowess and modern identity in the global community.
Mecca, Saudi Arabia
The Makkah Royal Clock Tower (part of the Abraj Al-Bait complex) rises dramatically over Mecca to about 601 metres, serving as one of the tallest towers worldwide. The massive clock tower sits near the Grand Mosque and serves both practical and deeply symbolic functions.
It houses hotel rooms, prayer areas, and observation decks for visitors and pilgrims. For visitors, especially during pilgrimage seasons, it offers a unique melding of religious, architectural, and vertical scale experiences that exist nowhere else on Earth.
The tower’s height and sacred location make it a standout among record-towers globally. Its presence transforms the holy city’s skyline while serving millions of pilgrims who visit Mecca each year for spiritual journeys.
Saint Petersburg, Russia
In Europe’s tower race, the Lakhta Center in Saint Petersburg stands at around 462 metres, claiming the title of tallest building in Europe. Completed in 2018, it towers dramatically over the Gulf of Finland and modernizes a city traditionally known for classical architecture and imperial palaces.
For visitors, the striking contrast between historic palaces and this ultra-modern skyscraper delivers a compelling urban experience. The tower represents height achievement for Europe, reflections of modern Russia, and skyline observation opportunities that aren’t confined to Asia or North America.
Saint Petersburg’s unique blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge architecture makes it a fascinating destination. The Lakhta Center stands as a bold statement of contemporary Russian ambition within a city steeped in centuries of cultural heritage.
