Have you ever wondered how much the world’s most extravagant structures cost? Be it sacred religious sites, state-of-the-art stadiums, or luxurious casinos, these structures embody architectural and human ambition. With budgets surpassing some countries’ GDPs, each building tells a story of opulence, innovation, and cultural significance. Explore the ten most pricey buildings ever constructed and discover their unique features.
Masjid Al-Haram, Saudi Arabia: $100 billion
The Grand Mosque of Mecca, Masjid Al-Haram, is Islam’s holiest site and the world’s largest mosque, covering 356,800 square meters. Open 24/7, it accommodates up to 4 million worshipers. Blending Ottoman, Abbasid, and Umayyad styles, it’s fully air-conditioned. Estimated to have cost $100 billion, it stands as the most costly building globally.
Abraj Al-Bait, Saudi Arabia: $16 billion
Located near Masjid Al-Haram, Abraj Al-Bait, or the Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel, is a luxurious hotel and residential complex. The tower spotlights a four-faced clock, visible from 16 miles (25 kilometers) away. The clock faces are the largest globally, surpassing the Cevahir Mall clock in Istanbul. At the heart of each clock, the Saudi coat of arms is showcased, positioned behind the dials.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore: $5.7 billion
Designed by Moshe Safdie, the Marina Bay Sands has a unique architecture inspired by a deck of cards. It has received numerous accolades, including the “World’s Best Hotel” award in 2019. Its rooftop infinity pool and panoramic city views attract tourists worldwide, making it a must-visit destination in Singapore.
SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, United States: $5.5 billion
As the shared home of the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, SoFi Stadium represents a modern marvel of sports and entertainment venues. At over $5 billion, it is the most expensive stadium ever built, and it has the largest video board in sports at 70,000 square feet. Built to be earthquake-resistant, it has a seismic moat spanning 12 feet in width and 100 feet in depth.
Apple Park, California, United States: $5 billion
Apple Park, the visionary headquarters of Apple, features a circular main building surrounded by lush gardens and topped with a solar panel array. Designed by Norman Foster, it reflects Apple’s innovative ethos and dedication to sustainability. The layout is earthquake-safe, with its foundation essentially disconnected from the ground beneath it and instead sits on massive saucer structures.
Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore: $4.93 billion
A sprawling integrated resort, it features a variety of attractions, including a casino, multiple luxury hotels, theme parks, and entertainment options. Its distinct architecture and lush landscaping create an inviting atmosphere. Key highlights include Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark, making it a top destination for family vacations and high-end leisure in Singapore.
Wynn Palace, Macau: $4.2 billion
Wynn Palace, a stunning casino resort, captivates visitors with its floral-themed design, upscale accommodations, and world-class dining and entertainment. Its private lake and fountain shows enhance its lavish appeal. Wynn Palace has been ranked in the top 1% of hotels worldwide and has received Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award.
The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas, United States: $4.1 billion
In the center of the Las Vegas action, The Cosmopolitan offers a luxurious hotel and casino experience. Its impressive fusion of contemporary style and high-end amenities sets it apart. The Chandelier Bar features over 2 million glass beads. This glamorous hotspot is a top-ranked destination with vibrant nightlife, celebrity-chef restaurants, and sophisticated ambiance.
Palace of the People, Bucharest, Romania: $4 billion
Also known as the Romanian Parliament building, the Palace of the People is an enormous structure blending various architectural styles. With 3000 rooms, it is the second-largest government building in the world, and it’s 70% empty. With its opulent facilities, it costs around $6 million per year in heating, electricity, and lighting expenses.
One World Trade Center, NYC, United States: $3.8 billion
The One World Trade Center, a symbol of resilience and hope, is the centerpiece of the redeveloped World Trade Center complex. As the tallest building in the US and Western Hemisphere and seventh-tallest globally, it’s also known as the Freedom Tower, a poignant tribute to the 9/11 site.
