A massive £6.8 trillion futuristic city project in the Saudi Arabian desert is facing significant challenges. Neom, the ambitious development, has already consumed vast amounts of funding but is struggling with major construction delays.
In response, the Saudi government has launched a review that could lead to a substantial reduction in the project’s scope. The original plans for Neom included The Line, an extensive chain of skyscrapers reaching half a kilometer high and spanning 125 miles through the desert.
Initially envisioned with a budget of around £365 billion and a target completion year of 2030, the project seemed unstoppable. However, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who championed the initiative to reduce the country’s reliance on oil, is reportedly frustrated with the persistent setbacks faced by various schemes.
Numerous other projects have been put on hold or abandoned, and Neom is now under scrutiny. There are talks of shifting focus towards artificial intelligence data centers instead of the envisioned sprawling city, according to reports.
Insiders familiar with the review shared with The Sunday Times that the fate of The Line hangs in the balance, with the possibility of being either completely scrapped or significantly downsized.
Despite the challenges, the crown prince sees potential in Neom to alleviate the strain on overcrowded cities like Riyadh. The original concept for Neom included a vast nature reserve spanning 6,500 square kilometers and Trojena, a mountain retreat featuring the country’s first outdoor ski slopes.
Trojena was slated to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, but officials have acknowledged that it will not be completed on time. The Line, designed with mirror-clad structures, aimed to accommodate nine million residents and redefine urban development by providing easy access to facilities within a short walking distance and a rapid transit system for quick transportation.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 described The Line as a revolutionary city that prioritizes human needs while preserving the surrounding environment. Despite the high aspirations set for these projects, declining oil revenues have prompted a reassessment of spending by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.
As of now, the only operational component of Neom is the Sindalah yachting destination, which has faced criticism for its lack of success. Neom is now undergoing a fresh evaluation as Saudi Arabia and the UAE shift focus towards artificial intelligence to establish themselves as global tech leaders.
In addition to economic changes, the kingdom has witnessed significant social transformations in recent years, such as reforms in policing and granting women the right to drive. Prince Mohammed’s initiatives have garnered praise from many younger Saudis, although criticism has led to severe penalties for dissent on social media.
Express.co.uk has reached out to NEOM for comments.
