2026 is being prescribed as a landmark year for the global architectural scene. At a time when cities are looking for answers to sustainability and the need for new urban symbols, skyscrapers are making a dynamic return to the forefront. From Asia and Latin America to Europe and the Mediterranean, ambitious colossal buildings are heading towards completion, aspiring not only to ‘touch the sky’ but also to redefine the way we live, work, and move around the city. In 2026, the global urban horizon is changing, and with it the concept of height is changing.

China Merchants Bank Headquarters – Shenzhen, China

The new headquarters of China Merchants Bank in Shenzhen is one of the most iconic tall buildings expected to be completed in 2026 and is designed by the architectural firm Foster + Partners. The tower, with a height exceeding 380 meters, was conceived as a modern symbol of financial power for one of China’s largest banks, as well as a new landmark for Shenzhen’s rapidly developing urban landscape.
Its architecture is characterized by an elegant vertical form with strong emphasis on transparency and natural light, reflecting Foster + Partners’ philosophy of sustainable and “open” buildings. The façade is designed to reduce the building’s energy footprint, while the interior is organized around flexible workspaces, shared areas, and green terraces adapted to the needs of modern work.

Downtown One – Tirana, Albania

Downtown One in Tirana is one of the most characteristic examples of the new architectural identity of the Albanian capital and is designed by the Dutch firm MVRDV. With a height of about 140 meters, the building is expected to be completed in 2026 and become the tallest building in the country, marking Tirana’s transition into a more outward-looking, modern urban era.
The tower’s distinctive form is based on a “pixelated” architectural concept, with protruding volumes and stepped surfaces that create a dynamic silhouette. The façade is not merely decorative: it incorporates green spaces, terraces, and semi-outdoor zones, aiming to transfer the concept of outdoor living—so characteristic of the city—into a vertical building.
Downtown One will host offices, residences, retail spaces, and public functions, operating as a “vertical urban hub” in the center of Tirana. At the same time, its design reflects MVRDV’s philosophy of buildings that do not dominate the city but instead engage in dialogue with their surroundings, integrating elements of local culture and everyday life.

Central Bank of Iraq – Baghdad, Iraq

The new building of the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad, designed by the renowned firm Zaha Hadid Architects, is expected to be completed in 2026 and is one of the most striking architectural projects in the Middle East. With a height of about 170 meters, the tower combines functionality, contemporary architecture, and strong symbolism, and is intended to become a new landmark for the capital.
The architecture reflects the characteristic dynamic morphology of Zaha Hadid Architects, with fluid, organic lines and curves that suggest movement and flow. The building incorporates office spaces, conference halls, exhibition areas, and outdoor platforms, creating an environment that combines technology, security, and aesthetics.

Mercedes-Benz Places – United Arab Emirates (Dubai)

Mercedes-Benz Places, designed by the architectural firm Binghatti, is expected to be completed in 2026 in Dubai and to become one of the region’s most impressive projects. With a height of about 341 meters, the skyscraper—combining residences, offices, retail spaces, and leisure facilities—will be among the tallest buildings in the city.
The architecture is characterized by modern, elegant lines, while the façade features high-performance glass and aluminum elements aimed at reducing heat loss and enhancing energy sustainability. The design emphasizes the experience of residents and visitors, integrating shared spaces, sky parks, and viewing platforms overlooking the city skyline.

262 Fifth Avenue – New York, USA

262 Fifth Avenue, designed by the architectural firm Meganom, is expected to be completed in 2026 and to become a striking new landmark in New York City. With a height of about 305 meters, the skyscraper fits into Manhattan’s dense urban fabric and aims to combine high-quality residences, retail spaces, and shared areas in an elegant vertical complex.
The New York–based firm SLCE serves as architect of record, while WSP provides infrastructure and engineering services. The project emphasizes sustainability and resident comfort, with energy-efficient systems, communal areas, and green rooftop terraces. Upon completion, 262 Fifth Avenue is expected to enhance the Manhattan skyline, combining contemporary aesthetics with the functional needs of one of the world’s most densely populated and multifaceted cities.

Tour F – Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Tour F, designed by the renowned architect Pierre Fakhoury, is expected to be completed in 2026 in Abidjan and to become the tallest building in Côte d’Ivoire. With a height of about 421 meters, the tower incorporates elements of contemporary architecture while also preserving features that connect its design to local culture and history.
The building’s form combines vertical lines with dynamic curves, creating a recognizable silhouette on Abidjan’s skyline. Tour F will host multifunctional spaces, including offices, commercial zones, and shared facilities, while sustainability is emphasized through energy-efficient systems and green roofs.