Pakistan hosts quite a few historical architectural wonders, some already discovered while others await their turn. As for examples of modern architecture, the history of skyscrapers in Pakistan dates back to 1963 when Habib Bank Limited constructed the HBL Plaza – the-then tallest building in Pakistan. The state-of-the-art structure instantly became a monument of international importance when it was declared the tallest building in Asia. The 335-feet-tall plaza acquires a significant place in the history of Pakistan’s tallest buildings, as it was the first sign of our emerging economy and economic progress.
However, in the mid of 2000s, Muslim Commercial Bank Tower — boasting a height of 380 feet — reached a new milestone and snatched the title of Pakistan’s tallest building away from HBL Plaza.
So, who’s next on our list of the tallest buildings in Pakistan? Read on to find out!
List of Tallest Buildings in Pakistan
Owing to an uptick in urbanisation and the increase in population, most cities in Pakistan are taking the vertical route to house more people in a limited space. The strategy seems to be working since all the major cities in Pakistan are now boasting towering skyscrapers and a skyline that continues to evolve with time. That being said, here are the tallest buildings in Pakistan as of 2019:
- Bahria Hotel and Bahria Icon Tower
- Ocean Tower
- Dolmen Tower
- Chapal Skymark
- Centaurus
Bahria Icon Tower and Bahria Hotel
The first and most important entries in the list of Pakistan’s tallest buildings are some wonders marvels created by Bahria Town – Bahria Icon Tower and Bahria Hotel. Although the construction of these two exceptional projects is still underway, they have already gained tremendous popularity and have completely captured the public’s attention. Standing side-by-side, these two towers are inspired by then-called New York’s Twin Towers. Once completed, Bahria Icon Tower is going to be a mixed-use high-rise dedicated to residential and commercial purposes while Bahria Hotel will be the tallest hotel in Pakistan.
Height:
Bahria Hotel: 804 feet
Bahria Icon Tower: 684 feet
Floors:
Bahria Hotel: 46
Bahria Icon Tower: 62
Location: Shahrah-e-Firdousi, Block 3, Clifton, Karachi.
Ocean Tower
Situated close to Do Talwar and in the heart of Clifton, Ocean Tower is a shiny structure with a grandeur unlike any other. Formerly known as Sofitel Hotel Plaza and constructed a few years after MCB Plaza, the 393-feet tower was the tallest building in Pakistan from 2012 to 2014. Although the foundation stone of the building was laid back in the early 2000s, the skyscraper was completed in 2012. This architectural wonder boasts its own powerhouse which produces 5 MW of electricity, enough to sustain the requirements of the building without any failure. When it comes to the security system, Ocean Tower is equipped with cutting-edge surveillance and safety systems. This intelligently built high-rise in Karachi also hosts state-of-the-art amenities including a cineplex, commercial offices, recreational spots, thematic parks, a hygienic food court coupled with a comfortable dine-in area, and a shopping centre. It’s no wonder that Ocean Tower is one of the best shopping destinations in Karachi since it features outlets of some of the most renowned international and national brands.
Height: 393 feet
Number of Floors: 30
Location: Khyaban-e-Iqbal, Block 9, Clifton, Karachi.
Dolmen Towers
Located in Clifton, near the magnificent view of Marine Drive and Clifton Beach, Dolmen Towers is one of Pakistan’s tallest buildings. The master-mind behind this mixed-use project is Dolmen Group – Pakistan’s leading builders.
Situated beside Dolmen Executive Tower – home to the iconic Dolmen Mall – Dolmen Towers are scheduled to redefine the commercial experience of Karachiites once the construction is completed. Even though the building is yet to be completed developed, it still catches the fancy of people passing by with multiple floors reserved for parking, situated above the ground.
Height: 656 feet
Number of Floors: 40
Location: Dolmen Executive Drive, Sea View Road, Clifton, Karachi.
Chapal Skymark
Positioned on Dr Ziauddin Ahmed Road, Chapal Skymark is among the most talked-about residential projects in Karachi. Seeing this luxurious and gleaming high-rise making to our list of Pakistan’s tallest building doesn’t come as a surprise since it is a protagonist in bringing the city of lights back to its glory. This splendid housing project aims to construct 50 floors, dedicated to lavish apartments, a health club, a mosque, and a café. Situated close to top-notch facilities and high-end hotels such as PIDC and Movenpick, the project gives a new meaning to living large.
Height: 656 feet
Number of Floors: 50
Location: Dr Ziauddin Ahmed Road, Civil Lines, Kashmir Mujahid Colony, Karachi.
Centaurus
Besides being the tallest addition to the skyline of Islamabad, Centaurus has an incredible infrastructure which is easily noticeable from a large part of the capital. Additionally, being a unique addition to the landmarks of Islamabad, the building is now on the list of Pakistan’s tallest buildings. The skyscraper is divided into three towers constructed close to each other, boasting the same height. The three towers are Centaurus Movenpick Hotel, The Centaurus Residencia, and The Centaurus Corporate. Situated close to the commercial engine of Islamabad – Blue Area – Centaurus has all the bragging rights to be the most magnificent skyscraper of Pakistan since it offers a complete package including a luxurious lifestyle, abundant recreational spots, and leading-edge commercial facilities.
Height: 381 feet
Number of Floors: 23
Location: F8, 4 Jinnah Avenue, F 8/4 F-8, Islamabad.
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