The tallest building in 2028 is projected to be the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia. While construction is currently on hold, its planned height of over 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) would make it significantly taller than any existing structure. Its completion date remains uncertain, but it holds the title of the world’s tallest building under construction.
The Race to the Sky: Identifying the Tallest Building in 2028
The quest for the world’s tallest building is a continuous architectural and engineering marvel. As of early 2026, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, stands as the undisputed champion. However, the landscape of supertall skyscrapers is always evolving, with several ambitious projects vying for the top spot in the coming years. Understanding the tallest skyscraper by 2028 involves looking at both completed structures and those currently under construction or in advanced planning stages.
What Defines "Tallest"?
Before diving into specific buildings, it’s crucial to clarify what "tallest" means in this context. The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) has established criteria for measuring building height. These include:
- Height to Architectural Top: This is the most commonly accepted measurement, including spires but excluding antennae, signage, flagpoles, or other functional-technical equipment.
- Highest Occupied Floor: This measures the height of the highest usable floor within the building.
- Height to Tip: This measures the absolute highest point of the building, including antennae or flagpoles.
For the purpose of identifying the tallest building in 2028, we will primarily focus on the height to the architectural top, as this is the standard for ranking.
Current Record Holder: The Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa, completed in 2010, has held the title of the world’s tallest building for over a decade. Standing at a staggering 828 meters (2,717 feet), it’s a testament to human ingenuity and advanced construction techniques. Its iconic design and sheer scale continue to inspire awe and attract millions of visitors annually.
The Contenders for the Future Crown
While the Burj Khalifa remains supreme, several projects have been initiated with the ambition to surpass its height. The most prominent among these is the Jeddah Tower.
Jeddah Tower: The Mile-High Ambition
The Jeddah Tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was designed to be the first building to surpass the kilometer-high mark, reaching an astonishing 1,000 meters (3,281 feet). Construction began in 2014, and significant progress was made. However, work on the tower was halted in early 2018 due to financial and legal disputes.
As of early 2026, the Jeddah Tower’s completion date is uncertain. If construction resumes and is completed by 2028, it would unequivocally be the tallest building in the world. Its design features a slender, needle-like structure that tapers as it rises, with a distinctive sky bridge at its peak. The project aims to be a mixed-use development, incorporating residential, hotel, and office spaces.
Other Notable Supertall Projects
While Jeddah Tower is the most direct contender for the absolute tallest, other supertall buildings are under construction or in advanced planning that will significantly alter the global skyline. These include:
- Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: This building has already topped out at 678.9 meters (2,227 feet) and is expected to be fully completed soon. While not surpassing the Burj Khalifa, it is currently the second tallest in the world.
- Central Park Tower in New York City, USA: Standing at 472 meters (1,550 feet), it is the tallest residential building in the world.
- Various projects in China: China continues to be a leader in skyscraper construction, with numerous buildings exceeding 500 meters (1,640 feet) either completed or in development.
Will Jeddah Tower be the Tallest in 2028?
The answer hinges entirely on the resumption and successful completion of its construction. If the project recommences with renewed vigor and funding, it is highly probable that the Jeddah Tower will be the world’s tallest building by 2028. However, the extended pause in construction introduces a significant element of uncertainty.
The economic climate, investor confidence, and logistical challenges will all play a role in determining its future. If the Jeddah Tower remains stalled, the Burj Khalifa will continue to hold its title, at least until another project with a confirmed completion date surpasses its height.
Factors Influencing Future Tallest Buildings
Several factors influence the development of supertall skyscrapers:
- Economic Growth: Ambitious projects require substantial investment, often driven by strong economies and a demand for prime real estate.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in materials science, engineering, and construction methods make taller and more complex structures feasible.
- Urbanization: Growing populations in major cities create demand for vertical development to maximize land use.
- Global Prestige: For some nations and cities, constructing the world’s tallest building is a symbol of progress, technological prowess, and international standing.
What to Expect by 2028
By 2028, the global skyline will undoubtedly feature more impressive supertall structures. The Jeddah Tower remains the most significant potential claimant to the title of the tallest building. Its fate will be a key story in the world of architecture and construction.
Even if the Jeddah Tower’s timeline shifts, the ongoing development of supertall buildings in Asia and the Middle East ensures a dynamic future for vertical architecture. The pursuit of height is a testament to human ambition and our continuous drive to push the boundaries of what is possible.
People Also Ask
### What is the tallest building in the world right now?
As of early 2026, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the tallest building in the world. It stands at an impressive 828 meters (2,717 feet) tall and has held this record since its completion in 2010.
### Has the Jeddah Tower been completed?
No, the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia has not been completed. Construction began in 2014 but was halted in early 2018. Its completion date is currently uncertain, making its status as the future tallest building speculative.
### How tall is the Jeddah Tower supposed to be?
The Jeddah Tower is designed to be over 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) tall, making it the first building in the world to surpass the kilometer mark. This ambitious height would significantly dwarf the current record holder, the Burj Khalifa.
