Since the Industrial Revolution, technology and the economy have rapidly advanced, giving rise to various towering skyscrapers.

The construction costs of these buildings have repeatedly set new records. So, which building globally is considered the most expensive? Here are some examples:

1. The Mecca Grand Mosque, located within the affluent kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is undoubtedly the most opulent building globally, recognized for its extravagance. With a history spanning over a century, this building has undergone several expansions, two of which occurred in the 20th century.

Even in the 21st century, expansion continues, and upon completion, the total area is expected to surpass 800,000 square meters. The construction cost of this mosque has soared to a staggering $100 billion.

2. The Dubai Mall is one of the world's largest shopping centers, boasting a retail area of 502,000 square meters. It houses over 1300 stores, around 200 restaurants, and attractions such as an aquarium, virtual reality park, cinema, and an Olympic-sized ice rink. Opened in 2009, it has become the most visited shopping mall globally, with construction costs reaching $24 billion, ranking it second in cost.

3. The Abraj Al Bait Clock Tower in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, has seven towers. The hotel itself stands at a height of 602 meters with 120 floors. This tower serves as a luxurious hotel, residential apartments, and the central hub for a 5-story shopping center. As part of a donation project by King Abdulaziz, it overlooks the world's largest mosque and features the world's most enormous clock face. The construction value of this building is $15 billion, ranking it third in terms of cost.

4. Apple's headquarters in California, USA, designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, is a circular structure often called the "spaceship" due to its aerial view. The building covers an area of 260,000 square meters and took eight years to complete. Described by Steve Jobs as a "landed spaceship," it is also likened to a "giant glass donut" by the American media. The construction cost amounts to $5 billion, ranking it fourth.

5. Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore is a well-known family vacation destination covering 49 hectares. It includes a maritime museum, an aquarium, resort hotels, and a convention center with a construction cost of more than 39 billion dollars.

6. The Emirates Palace Hotel in the United Arab Emirates doesn't resemble a typical hotel; instead, it looks more like a mosque or a massive castle from afar. This classical Arabic palace-style building is luxurious, with eight BMW 760s and two Rolls-Royces providing transportation for guests. This hotel costs $3 billion, presenting an exceptionally grand appearance.

In the ever-evolving tapestry of global architecture, these monumental structures stand as testaments to human ingenuity and ambition. From the grandeur of the Mecca Grand Mosque to the innovative design of Apple's headquarters, each building reflects a unique blend of tradition, luxury, and modernity.

As we marvel at these construction feats, they remind us of the limitless possibilities when creativity and resources converge. Adorned with such awe-inspiring skyscrapers, the world continues to showcase the boundless pursuit of excellence in architectural marvels.