The mosque surrounding the Muslim Qibla, the Kaaba, known as Masjid al-Haram, has been declared the world’s most expensive building. British media outlet ‘The Telegraph’ recently released a list of the world’s 20 most expensive buildings. Among these, the two most expensive buildings are in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Topping the list is Masjid al-Haram, followed by Abraj Al Bait, also known as ‘The Clock Towers.’
Masjid al-Haram, located in Mecca, is the most sacred site for Muslims and can accommodate four million people at a time. It spans 400,800 square meters (99 acres) and offers prayer facilities both inside and outside. This holy site houses the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) and the Maqam Ibrahim. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter this building.
Abraj Al Bait, or The Clock Towers, is located next to Masjid al-Haram. It holds records as the world’s tallest clock towers and the world’s tallest hotel. The clock on this building is the largest in the world, with a diameter of 43 meters. Abraj Al Bait stands at 1,972 feet, making it the third tallest building in the world.
According to The Telegraph, the construction cost of Masjid al-Haram is $100 billion, making it the most expensive building in the world. Abraj Al Bait’s construction cost is $15 billion. These structures highlight the architectural and cultural significance of Mecca.
