Life in Dubai is a joy to experience. From branded outlets to theme parks and iconic skyscrapers, Dubai never fails to amaze. These days, Dubai’s towering skyline is the talk of the town.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) with cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi have long been famed for their futuristic architectural skyline. But today, it has achieved a new landmark globally. The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) has announced that the United Arab Emirates has finally overtaken the United States in the highest number of completed supertall buildings – that are 300 meters (984 feet) or taller.
This places the UAE second in the world, just behind China, and marks a major achievement in the country’s ongoing urban transformation.
Supertall Skyscrapers
The term “supertall” refers to buildings that are 300 meters or more in height. It’s one of the categories used by CTBUH to classify very tall buildings. These are not just tall towers but are engineering marvels that push the boundaries of design, technology, and construction.
To put it simply:
- 150+ meters = Tall
- 200+ meters = Very Tall
- 300+ meters = Supertall
- 600+ meters = Megatall
UAE’s Ranking: The Latest Figures
As of mid-2025, the UAE has 37 completed supertall skyscrapers, compared to 31 in the United States. This information comes from the latest data published by CTBUH and reported by Gulf News on July 8, 2025.
Here’s how the numbers compare globally:
- China 122
- UAE 37
- United States 31
Where Are These Skyscrapers Located?
Most of the UAE’s supertall skyscrapers are in Dubai, home to some of the world’s most iconic towers. The city has earned its nickname as the “Manhattan of the Middle East” due to its skyline and modern infrastructure.
Some of the most well-known supertall towers in the UAE include:
- Burj Khalifa (828 m) – the tallest building in the world since 2010
- Marina 101 (425 m) – Dubai Marina
- Princess Tower (413 m) – Dubai Marina
- 23 Marina (392 m) – Dubai Marina
- Elite Residence (380 m) – Dubai Marina
- Almas Tower (360 m) – Jumeirah Lakes Towers
All these contribute to Dubai’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative vertical architecture.
UAE Is Constructing So Many Skyscrapers
Dubai is progressing rapidly and here is why it is constructing so many skyscrapers:
1. Urban Planning & Land Use
The UAE has limited usable land in its main cities, especially Dubai. Instead of spreading out, the country builds upward to save space.
2. Tourism & Branding
Famous skyscrapers contribute to attracting worldwide attention. Projects such as Burj Khalifa and other future towers including Dubai Creek Tower are supposed to promote tourism, abroad land investment and national pride.
3. Real Estate Investment
Mixed-use developments can be achieved with high-rise structures whereby it could merge buildings, hotels, offices, shops and homes. This gives a higher rate of returns on investments per square meter.
4. Government Vision
Dubai’s leadership, particularly under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has consistently pushed for architectural innovation as part of the UAE Vision 2031 and broader plans to become a global business and lifestyle hub.
UAE’s Place in All Height Categories
According to CTBUH data and reports by The National and Gulf News, the UAE also ranks highly in other building height categories:
- 345 buildings over 150 meters – 3rd globally
- 159 buildings over 200 meters – 3rd globally
- 37 buildings over 300 meters – 2nd globally
This shows that the UAE isn’t just building one-off record-breakers. It’s creating entire skylines filled with tall buildings that serve as homes, offices, hotels, and landmarks.
How Does This Compare to the U.S.?
The United States has a rich history of skyscraper development as it was once the global leader. Cities like New York and Chicago introduced the world to high-rise living and working.
However, the U.S. market is mature. Strict regulations, zoning laws, and limited land availability have slowed down the development of supertall buildings. In contrast, the UAE offers faster approval processes, visionary urban policies, and aggressive investment in high-rise infrastructure.
What’s Next for the UAE Skyline?
While China remains the undisputed leader with 122 supertall skyscrapers, the UAE is catching up fast. Renowned projects like Dubai Creek Tower and Wasl Tower show the ambition is far from slowing down.
Furthermore, green architecture, smart cities, and sustainable construction are also gaining popularity, so it will affect future towers in the region as well.
Conclusion
When the UAE jumped to the second in the global ranking of super taller skyscrapers, it was not just the height race, it’s a sign of its long-term vision, strategic thinking and global ambition. As it rises every taller, the nation keeps raising the standards in the field of urban design and real estate.
The UAE is not merely developing some skyscrapers but is building history by having 37 supertall skyscrapers to its name with even more being developed.
