Top 10 Most Expensive Buildings In The World

Introduction

Most Expensive Buildings: Buildings tell stories that last for decades or even centuries. They give us a look into the culture, traditions, and technology of the time they were built. In this way, they link different societies to history and serve as important markers of human progress. Many of these structures also rank among the most expensive in the world. The total cost of a building includes the money spent on construction.

It may also cover the price of land, upgrades to older structures, smaller buildings that are part of the project, and other related expenses. However, determining the exact cost isn’t always easy. This is especially true for older buildings where records may be missing or incomplete. Even so, one thing remains certain: expensive buildings represent economic strength. Most are in wealthy nations that rank high in social and human development.

Top 10 Most Expensive Buildings In The World (2025)

#1. Masjid al-Haram – The USD 100 Billion Grand Mosque in Mecca

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• Located in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Masjid al-Haram is a breathtaking religious site and the most expensive building in the world, having cost about $100 billion to construct.
• This sacred mosque is a symbol of unity in Islam, attracting millions of worshippers.
• With the ability to accommodate 4 million people, Masjid al-Haram is not only a religious landmark but also a massive financial investment.
• This mosque is the center of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, which every Muslim hopes to complete. The Kaaba, located inside, is the focal point of prayer for Muslims worldwide.
• Masjid al-Haram is home to important religious sites such as the Black Stone, Zamzam Well, Maqam Ibrahim, and the hills of Safa and Marwa.
• More than just a building, it represents deep spiritual devotion and the immense resources used to preserve sacred traditions.

#2. Abraj Al Bait – The USD 16 Billion Skyscraper Complex

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• In Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the towering Abraj Al Bait complex stands as a remarkable blend of tradition and modernization.
• Costing around $16 billion, it is the second most expensive building globally, after Masjid al-Haram.
• This group of seven skyscrapers was built as part of the King Abdulaziz Endowment Project to enhance the city for religious pilgrims.
• The Mecca Clock Royal Tower, located within the complex, has the largest clock face in the world, visible from miles away.
• The complex is not just a collection of high-rise buildings—it also houses the Clock Tower Museum, hotels, and shopping centers.
• More than a modern landmark, Abraj Al Bait is a crucial part of Mecca’s continuous development, catering to millions of visitors each year.

#3. Marina Bay Sands – The USD 5.5 Billion Luxury Resort in Singapore

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• Standing tall in Singapore’s Bayfront area, Marina Bay Sands is a symbol of modern architecture and luxury.
• Built at a cost of $5.5 billion, this resort includes a hotel, a shopping mall, a casino, and entertainment venues.
• The SkyPark, a 150-meter-long infinity pool on top of the three towers, offers breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline.
• With 2,561 hotel rooms, a convention center, theatres, and luxury shopping, Marina Bay Sands is more than just a building—it is an experience. This iconic resort reflects Singapore’s drive for innovation and excellence in hospitality.

#4. Apple Park – The USD 5 Billion Futuristic Headquarters

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• In Cupertino, California, Apple Park stands as a masterpiece of design and technology. Built for around $5 billion, this circular office complex is the headquarters of Apple Inc., designed by world-famous architect Norman Foster.
• Apple Park is often called the “Spaceship” due to its unique circular shape, covering 64 acres and providing workspace for over 12,000 employees.
• Opening in April 2017, Apple Park represents Apple’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cutting-edge design.
• This massive campus is not just an office—it is a hub for creativity and technological advancement.

#5. Resorts World Sentosa – Singapore’s USD 4.93 Billion Entertainment Hub

(Source: visitsingapore.com)

• Located on Sentosa Island, Resorts World Sentosa is a luxurious entertainment complex that cost $4.93 billion to build. Opened in 2010, it is one of Singapore’s biggest attractions.
• The resort features two casinos, Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark, making it a top destination for thrill-seekers.
• Resorts World Sentosa covers 50 hectares and includes multiple hotels, a massive shopping mall, and a workforce of 15,000 people. It is a world-class entertainment hub that brings excitement, luxury, and tourism to Singapore.

#6. Wynn Palace – Macau’s USD 4.2 Billion Luxury Resort

(Source: tripadvisor.com)

• Wynn Palace, located in Cotai, Macau, is a $4.2 billion resort known for its stunning design and luxurious offerings.
• This 28-story hotel has 1,706 rooms, suites, and villas, creating an extravagant experience for visitors.
• The resort features large-scale floral displays by renowned designer Preston Bailey, adding an artistic touch to the lavish setting.
• Spanning 424,000 square feet of casino space, Wynn Palace is a blend of entertainment, fine dining, and relaxation.
• With one of Macau’s largest spas and stunning performances at its 8-acre performance lake, it is a prime destination for luxury lovers.

#7. The Cosmopolitan – A USD 4.1 Billion Gem on the Las Vegas Strip

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• Located in Paradise, Nevada, The Cosmopolitan is a high-end resort and casino that cost $4.1 billion to construct.
• This luxurious complex, featuring two massive towers—Boulevard Tower and Chelsea Tower—is a top attraction on the Las Vegas Strip.
• The Cosmopolitan has a 3,200-seat theatre, offering world-class entertainment along with its casino, restaurants, and shopping areas.
• Opened in December 2010, this resort is known for its elegance and exciting atmosphere. It was even named “The Best Hotel in the World” by Gogobot in 2013.
• Whether gambling, dining, or watching a show, The Cosmopolitan delivers a top-tier Vegas experience.

#8. One World Trade Center – The USD 3.9 Billion Symbol of Strength

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• One World Trade Center, located in Lower Manhattan, is more than just a skyscraper—it is a tribute to resilience and hope.
• With a cost of $3.9 billion, this tower is the tallest building in the United States and the seventh tallest worldwide.
• In 2012, One World Trade Center was the most expensive building in the world, with construction costs rising from an initial estimate of $3 billion to $3.9 billion.
• Built as part of the new World Trade Center complex, it was partly funded by $1 billion in insurance from the September 11 attacks. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of rebuilding and moving forward.

#9. Lotte World Tower – South Korea’s USD 3.1 Billion Skyscraper

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• The Lotte World Tower in Seoul, South Korea, is a striking symbol of architectural excellence, costing $3.1 billion.
• Standing at 1,823 feet with 123 stories, it is the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest globally.
• The tower’s exterior design is inspired by traditional Korean ceramics, blending cultural heritage with modern architecture.
• With a tapered cone shape and gently curved sides, the Lotte World Tower represents Seoul’s dedication to innovation and elegance.
• As the first 100-story building in South Korea, it has become a landmark of progress.

#10. Emirates Palace – Abu Dhabi’s USD 3 Billion Luxury Hotel

(Source: wikipedia.org)

• Located in Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is a lavish five-star hotel built for an estimated $3 billion.
• Featuring stunning Islamic architecture, this hotel is a symbol of luxury in the United Arab Emirates.
• The hotel’s central dome and 114 smaller domes are designed to reflect the colors of the Arabian Desert, creating a breathtaking visual effect.
• Opened in 2005 and operated by Kempinski until 2020, Emirates Palace combines traditional beauty with modern luxury.
• It remains one of the most expensive hotels ever built and a must-visit for those seeking a regal experience in Abu Dhabi.

#11. The New Children’s Hospital, Dublin

• Ireland’s new children’s hospital will provide top-quality medical care for kids, with more than 6,000 beds and 14 green spaces. However, the high-tech, fully digital hospital may not open until 2026.
• Its energy use per square foot is expected to be 60% to 70% lower than current pediatric hospitals.
• The building will use natural airflow whenever possible, but some challenges remain.
• For instance, a helipad on the roof means solar panels can’t be installed there, and underground water can’t be accessed through boreholes.

#12. City of Dreams, Macau

(Source: energyefficiency.com)

• Macau, known as the “Las Vegas of the East,” has three luxury resorts on this list. One of them is the City of Dreams, which includes hotels, a casino, and an entertainment center.
• In 2019, Melco Resorts, the company that owns City of Dreams, teamed up with local solar energy providers to set up Macau’s largest solar panel system.
• They installed 18,000 solar panels across 30,000 square meters of rooftop space at both City of Dreams and Studio City.

#13. Venetian Macau

• Venetian Macau is designed to reflect the beauty of Venice, complete with canals and gondolas. This impressive resort offers luxurious accommodations for travelers worldwide, a massive casino, upscale shopping, and a variety of dining options.
• The resort is also taking steps toward sustainability and was recognized in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for its efforts in areas like protecting nature and reducing food waste.
• In 2024, Sands China teamed up with Cotai Water Jet on a project to balance out carbon emissions from passenger travel by making donations on the first day of each month.

#14. SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, USA- USD 5.5 billion

(Source: mytour.vn)

• SoFi Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue that is home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers.
• It is located in Inglewood, California, and has a seating capacity of 70,000 people. Designed by HKS Architects, the stadium is part of a modern live-work-play development built on the former site of Hollywood Park Racetrack and the Los Angeles Forum.
• Its transparent roof, seating design, and landscaping create an open-air feel while still offering the benefits of a covered stadium.
• SoFi Stadium is the first stadium of its kind, combining indoor and outdoor elements. It is also the biggest NFL stadium, covering 288,500 square meters.
• The stadium features a retractable roof and sliding glass doors to allow fresh air and natural light. It also includes a 6,000-seat theater for concerts and other live events.
• In addition to sports and entertainment, the venue houses the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection. With its modern design and world-class features, SoFi Stadium is truly a unique destination.

#15. People’s Palace, Bucharest, Romania – USD 4 billion

(Source: mytour.vn)

• One of the most interesting places to visit in Bucharest is the Parliament Palace, also known as the People’s Palace.
• No matter how many palaces you’ve seen, this enormous building will impress you with its size and unique design.
• Many architects say it doesn’t follow just one architectural style but mixes several. Ordered by Romanian leader Nicolae Ceaușescu, the palace was finished in 1997.
• It covers more than 3.9 million square feet, but 70% of it remains empty. The building is home to many government offices and the Romanian Parliament, but only 5% is open to visitors.
• The People’s Palace is the biggest and most costly government building in the world. Its yearly electricity, heating, and lighting costs exceed $6 million.
• Built under Ceaușescu’s rule, it represents the luxury of the communist era. With solid wood furniture, sparkling crystal chandeliers, huge marble columns, and carefully designed interiors, this palace is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bucharest.

#16. The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas, USA – USD 4.1 billion

(Source: mytour.vn)

• The Cosmopolitan Resort Casino Las Vegas is in the center of the city, positioned between CityCenter and Bellagio and right across from Planet Hollywood and Paris Las Vegas. Locals often call it “Cosmo.”
• It blends the luxury of a five-star resort with the cozy charm of a boutique hotel. Situated on the Las Vegas Strip, it includes a casino, theatre, nightclubs, a spa, and three swimming pools. The resort has 3,027 spacious rooms spread across two sleek glass towers.
• Building this upscale hotel cost more than $4 billion and was completed in 2010. One of its most eye-catching features is the Chandelier Bar, decorated with over 2 million glass beads.
• The Cosmopolitan offers stunning views of the Strip, mountains, and desert, providing a truly unique atmosphere.
• The resort has 2,995 rooms designed like home-style suites with large private balconies, where guests can enjoy views of the Bellagio fountains, Planet Hollywood, or CityCenter.
• Thanks to its prime location and top-notch amenities, The Cosmopolitan is considered one of the best hotels in Las Vegas, drawing both tourists and business travelers.

#17. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates- 1.5 billion

• Burj Khalifa is a giant skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and holds the record as the tallest building in the world.
• It also beats two other major records: the tallest structure, which was previously the KVLY-TV mast in North Dakota, and the tallest free-standing structure, which used to be the CN Tower in Toronto.
• The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) in Chicago has three main rules for deciding what counts as a tall building.
• Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most famous tourist spots, offering observation decks near the top where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city.
• It was first named Burj Dubai but was changed to Burj Khalifa when it officially opened on January 4, 2010.
• The skyscraper is about 1.3 miles from the coast, so it doesn’t have much natural scenery nearby, like Dubai Marina.
• However, man-made lakes, ponds, and rivers surround the tower, making up for the lack of natural beauty.
• Burj Khalifa is one of the 13 most expensive buildings in the world, costing $1.5 billion to build.

Conclusion

There is a clear trend of luxury buildings moving toward sustainability. Many high-end properties are using eco-friendly technology and green practices to lower their impact on the environment. These efforts include energy-saving systems, sustainable building materials, and smart designs that cut down on waste. Some buildings have even earned LEED certification, a well-known global award for sustainability.

However, while some places, like Apple Park, lead the way in green innovation, many upscale buildings have done very little to support sustainability efforts.

Saisuman Revankar

Saisuman is a talented content writer with a keen interest in mobile tech, new gadgets, law, and science. She writes articles for websites and newsletters, conducting thorough research for medical professionals. Fluent in five languages, her love for reading and languages led her to a writing career. With a Master’s in Business Administration focusing on Human Resources, Saisuman has worked in HR and with a French international company. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and singing classical songs. At Coolest Gadgets, Saisuman reviews gadgets and analyzes their statistics, making complex information easy for readers to understand.

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