Ever pondered upon the inquiry of which building stands as the most opulent globally? Addressing such a query proves to be a formidable task, for the valuation of opulence varies based on distinct metrics. In the subsequent discourse, we shall delve into a selection of the most extravagant structures across the world, seeking to discern the paramount contender for the pinnacle position. The Palace of Versailles, despite incurring maintenance costs amounting to approximately $14.5 million, fails to secure its place among the most expensive structures erected in contemporary times.
An Exploration of the Epitome of Extravagance
While an individual’s abode may stand as their most valuable possession, on a global scale, its value likely pales compared to the exorbitant price tags associated with certain edifices. From entire metropolises to colossal sports arenas, these structures come with astronomical costs.
15. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates – $1.5 billion
Acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the loftiest structure globally, standing at an awe-inspiring height of 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa reached completion in 2010. This imposing building accommodates offices, residences, hotels, and the At The Top observation deck, featuring luxurious amenities such as an al fresco pool and a spa. The construction, demanding over 22 million labor hours, anticipates a 10% reduction in energy consumption compared to a conventional skyscraper of similar proportions, thanks to solar panels adorning its roof. Despite its formidable construction costs, the Burj Khalifa does not secure a position within the top 10 most expensive global structures. The absence of pre-existing urban infrastructure facilitated accessibility, coupled with relatively lower labor costs in the UAE.
14. City of Dreams, Macau – $2.1 billion
Distinguishable from its counterpart in Manila, the City of Dreams in Macau, with an expenditure of $2.1 billion, stands as an opulent resort complex inaugurated in 2009. Ranking as the third-largest casino globally, the venue features three distinct casinos, around 30 upscale dining establishments and bars, along with four hotels. A pivotal attraction is The House of Dancing Water, an acclaimed spectacle intertwining elements of water and fire. The complex additionally houses high-end retail spaces, spas, and an around-the-clock fitness center.
13. Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia – $2.44 billion
A monument to medical opulence, the Royal Adelaide Hospital in Australia, a property of the state government, stands as the most expensive healthcare facility ever erected. Spanning 175,000 square meters with 800 beds, colloquially known as the RAH, this colossal hospital encompasses 3.8 hectares of landscaped grounds, featuring 70 courtyards and multiple sky gardens. Boasting technological sophistication, the facility employs a fleet of robots to convey sustenance, equipment, and provisions.
12. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – $3 billion
The opulent Emirates Palace, a five-star hotel, emerges as one of the most expensive lodging establishments globally. Encompassing a sprawling 850,000 square meters, this colossal property, realized at a staggering cost exceeding $3 billion, unveiled its grandeur in 2005. The palace comprises 302 bedrooms and 92 suites, complemented by a private beach, marina, and helipad. Beyond its lavish accommodations, the Emirates Palace houses distinguished dining venues, including Hakkasan Abu Dhabi and Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi. Under the management of Mandarin Oriental, the hotel stands as a testament to grandiose architecture, adorned with gold leaf-embellished ceilings, marble staircases, and intricate mosaics.
11. Lotte World Tower, Seoul, South Korea – $3.11 billion
Soaring to a height of 555 meters and comprising 123 stories, the Lotte World Tower stands as the tallest edifice in South Korea. Completed in 2017 for $3.11 billion, the tower houses diverse enterprises and amenities, encompassing offices, retail spaces, residences, a hotel, and an observatory deck. The Sky Deck, situated at an elevation of 478 meters, secures the Guinness World Record for the loftiest glass-floor observation deck globally. Accessible via the Sky Shuttle elevator, the 117th to 123rd floors house cafes and terraces.
10. One World Trade Center, NYC, United States – $3.8 billion
Dubbed the Freedom Tower, the One World Trade Center, situated on the Manhattan site of the World Trade Center, emerges as a symbol of hope and resilience. Soaring to a symbolic height of 1,776 feet across 94 stories, it ranks as the tallest structure in the United States. The edifice incurred an estimated construction cost of $3.8 billion, commemorating the 9/11 terrorist attack. Beyond its hefty price tag, the tower encompasses the free 9/11 Memorial Museum, elucidating the history of the site and commemorating lives lost. Additionally, an observatory deck affords panoramic vistas of New York City and beyond.
9. Palace of the People, Bucharest, Romania – $4 billion
Also recognized as the Palace of the Parliament, this monolithic building in Bucharest stands as the most expensive administrative structure globally. Commanded by Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, the People’s Palace reached completion in 1997, covering over 3.9 million square feet, of which 70% remains unoccupied. Housing various government offices and the Parliament of Romania, the palace draws tourists with access limited to a mere 5% of its vast expanse. The colossal structure incurs annual expenses surpassing $6 million for electricity, heating, and lighting
8. The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas, United States – $4.1 billion
Adorning the Las Vegas Strip, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas stands as a multifaceted luxury establishment, embracing a casino, cinema, nightclub, spa, and three pools. The construction of this opulent hotel, with a cost exceeding $4 billion, reached completion in 2010. Noteworthy is The Chandelier Bar, adorned with over 2 million glass beads. The Cosmopolitan, occupying two glass-tower skyscrapers, has earned acclaim as one of the premier hotels in Las Vegas, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
7. Wynn Palace, Macau – $4.2 billion
Positioned on reclaimed land in Cotai, Macau, the Wynn Palace represents a lavish resort with an extravagant construction cost of $4.2 billion. Completed in 2016, this upscale casino and resort boasts an extensive collection of art, featuring numerous floral sculptures throughout the property. With 1,706 luxury suites, a spa, the Wynn Palace Esplanade shopping mall, and a Performance Lake equipped with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, the Wynn Palace remains a paragon of luxury. Presently undergoing expansion, the project encompasses a new 650-room hotel, gardens, a food court, and a theater.
6. Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore – $4.93 billion
Encompassing the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, a marina, retail outlets, a casino, and the S.E.A. Aquarium, the Resorts World Sentosa stands as a monumental endeavor completed in 2010, costing a staggering $4.93 billion. Situated on Sentosa Island off the southern coast of Singapore, the integrated resort features six hotels with 1,800 rooms, constituting one of the largest employers in Singapore with approximately 15,000 employees. Drawing over 18 million visitors annually, Sentosa Island has become a renowned destination.
5. Apple Park, California, United States – $5 billion
Situated in Cupertino, California, Apple Park is a complex characterized by a colossal ring-shaped main building, seven cafes, 9,000 trees, the 1,000-seat Steve Jobs Auditorium, and a 100,000-square-foot fitness center. The construction of Apple Park, with an estimated cost of $5 billion, was designed by the esteemed architect Norman Foster. The circular main building, crafted from glass and steel, is entirely powered by renewable energy. While the construction expense is substantial, Apple Park stands poised to serve as a pivotal asset for the company in the years to come.
4. SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, United States – $5.5 billion
Functioning as a sports stadium and entertainment complex, SoFi Stadium currently hosts the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. Nestled in Inglewood, California, the stadium, with a capacity of 70,000 seats, boasts a retractable roof and a sliding glass door offering an open-air experience. Complementing its sporting and entertainment facilities, SoFi Stadium encompasses The Kinsey African American Art and History Collection, rendering it a truly unique and unparalleled facility.
3. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore – $5.7 billion
A luxurious resort complex spanning 15.5 hectares, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore incorporates a hotel, casino, mall, convention center, theater, museum, and two floating pavilions. Comprising three towers and the iconic 340-meter-long SkyPark, the facility is set to expand with a fourth tower featuring an additional 1,000 hotel rooms by 2026. The rooftop infinity pool, a hallmark feature, offers breathtaking views of Singapore’s skyline, while the 56th-floor SkyPark Observation Deck stands as a sought-after viewpoint.
2. Abraj Al-Bait, Saudi Arabia – $16 billion
Situated near the Great Mosque of Mecca, the Abraj Al-Bait Towers complex encompasses seven hotels, The Clock Towers Shopping Center, apartments, office buildings, and a prayer hall. The tallest tower, the Makkah Royal Clock Tower, houses the world’s largest clock face. Overseen by the Saudi Arabian government, this monumental construction was tailored to accommodate the multitude of pilgrims visiting Mecca annually for the Hajj.
1. Masjid Al-Haram, Saudi Arabia – $100 billion
Constructed on the holiest site in Islam, Masjid Al-Haram serves as the focal point for the Hajj pilgrimage. Originating in the 7th century, the Great Mosque of Mecca has undergone two expansions and is currently in its third phase. The Expansion Project has augmented the total capacity to approximately 2.5 million worshippers, with a new water reservoir nearing completion. At an astonishing cost of $100 billion, Masjid Al-Haram stands as the most expensive buildiing ever erected, a testament to its unparalleled significance in the Islamic world.
