Africa’s skyline is undergoing a dramatic transformation. A wave of architectural ambition is sweeping across the continent, resulting in skyscrapers that not only touch the clouds but also redefine what is possible in modern construction.
These towering structures are more than just steel and glass; they are symbols of economic growth, innovation, and a continent on the rise.
This post will guide you through the latest list of Africa’s tallest buildings as of 2025. We will explore the new champions of height, their unique designs, and the impact they have on their cities and the architectural world.
The New Kings of the African Skyline
For decades, the title of Africa’s tallest building was held by a select few. However, recent years have seen a major shake-up in the rankings.
New projects have reached completion, setting records and pushing architectural boundaries. Let’s look at the skyscrapers currently dominating the continent.
1. Iconic Tower – Egypt
Height: 392 meters (1,286 feet)
Location: New Administrative Capital, Egypt
The undisputed champion of Africa’s skyline is the Iconic Tower in Egypt. As the centerpiece of the country’s New Administrative Capital, this 77-floor marvel has shattered previous records to become the tallest building on the continent.
Its sleek, obelisk-inspired design pays homage to ancient Egyptian history while embracing a futuristic vision.
The tower is a mixed-use development, housing offices, luxury apartments, and a high-end hotel. Its observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the new city.
The project was primarily constructed by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), showcasing a major international collaboration. The Iconic Tower is not just a building; it’s a statement about Egypt’s future.
2. Mohammed VI Tower – Morocco
Height: 250 meters (820 feet)
Location: Rabat, Morocco
Rising elegantly above the Bouregreg River, the Mohammed VI Tower is a testament to Morocco’s modern ambitions.
This 55-story skyscraper combines contemporary design with traditional Moroccan art and motifs, creating a truly unique aesthetic. Its environmentally conscious design has earned it LEED Gold and HQE certifications, making it a leader in sustainable construction in Africa.
The tower contains a mix of luxury residences, office spaces, and a prestigious hotel. Its state-of-the-art facade features intricate patterns that also serve a practical purpose by providing solar shading.
The Mohammed VI Tower stands as a beacon of progress for Rabat and the entire nation.
3. The Leonardo – South Africa
Height: 234 meters (768 feet)
Location: Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa
Once the tallest building in South Africa and a former continental leader, The Leonardo remains a significant landmark in Johannesburg’s financial district.
This 55-floor skyscraper is a mixed-use development that includes luxury apartments, premium office space, a hotel, and a range of retail stores.
Its most notable feature is the Leonardo Art Gallery, which showcases works from leading South African and international artists throughout the building.
This integration of art and architecture provides a unique cultural experience for residents and visitors. The Leonardo stands as a symbol of the sophisticated, urban lifestyle of modern Johannesburg.
4. Carlton Centre – South Africa
Height: 223 meters (732 feet)
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
For over 40 years, the Carlton Centre was the undisputed tallest building in Africa. Though it has been surpassed, this 50-story skyscraper remains an iconic part of Johannesburg’s history.
Opened in 1973, it has witnessed the city’s transformation over several decades.
The building houses both offices and a shopping center. Its observation deck, known as the “Top of Africa,” still provides stunning views of the city.
While no longer the tallest, the Carlton Centre’s legacy as a long-reigning pioneer of African high-rise architecture is secure.
5. Britam Tower – Kenya
Height: 200 meters (656 feet)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
With its striking prismatic shape, the Britam Tower is a standout feature of the Nairobi skyline.
This 31-story commercial building is renowned for its unique design, which tapers from a four-sided base to a two-sided pinnacle topped with a 60-meter mast. This mast holds three helical wind turbines, adding a sustainable energy feature to its design.
The tower serves as the headquarters for the Britam Group, a financial services company. Its modern facilities and innovative architecture reflect Nairobi’s growing status as a major business hub in East Africa.
The Britam Tower is celebrated not just for its height but for its bold and futuristic design.
Notable Mentions and Future Contenders
The race to the top is far from over. Several other buildings across the continent are notable for their height and architectural significance.
- UAP Old Mutual Tower (Kenya): Standing at 163 meters in Nairobi, this 33-story office complex was the tallest in Kenya upon its completion in 2015.
- NECOM House (Nigeria): Located in Lagos, this 160-meter telecommunications tower has been a prominent feature of the city’s skyline since 1979.
- Ponte City (South Africa): This iconic 173-meter cylindrical skyscraper in Johannesburg is one of the most famous residential buildings on the continent.
Looking ahead, several ambitious projects are in various stages of planning and construction.
The proposed Pinnacle Tower in Nairobi, for example, aims to reclaim a top spot on the list if it overcomes development hurdles. These future projects signal that the competition for Africa’s tallest building will only intensify.
The Future of African Architecture
The recent boom in skyscraper construction across Africa reflects a continent experiencing rapid urbanization and economic development.
These buildings are more than just landmarks; they are critical components of urban development, providing much-needed office, residential, and commercial space.
Modern African architecture is increasingly focused on sustainability, cultural integration, and smart technology.
Architects are finding innovative ways to blend local heritage with cutting-edge design, creating buildings that are both globally competitive and uniquely African.
As cities like Cairo, Rabat, Johannesburg, and Nairobi continue to grow, their skylines will keep evolving.
The current list of tallest buildings is just a snapshot in time, representing a dynamic and ambitious chapter in the continent’s history. The sky is truly the limit for African architecture.
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