Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project, a key part of the Vision 2030 plan, has been significantly scaled back due to high costs. Originally designed as a futuristic smart city with advanced industrial zones and a ski resort over 26,500 square kilometers, the focus has shifted to building sports stadiums for global events over the next decade.
Launched in 2017, NEOM includes “The Line,” a linear city with towering skyscrapers stretching 170 kilometers. Initially, this city was to be powered entirely by renewable energy, featuring aerial walkways and gardens. However, following the resignation of CEO Nadmi Al-Nasr, the project has refocused its priorities.
Al-Nasr’s departure, reportedly due to unmet objectives, led to Aiman Mudaifer’s appointment as acting CEO. The revised plan now emphasizes completing infrastructure essential for hosting international sports events, like the 2034 World Cup, with a 2.4-kilometer section and stadiums as immediate priorities.
Adjustments also include integrating stadiums into “The Line” for practicality and completing the “Trojena” mountain complex for the 2029 Asian Winter Games. The project’s costs, initially estimated at $500 billion, have soared, prompting a phased approach to avoid redundancy.
The Saudi government has not commented on these changes, but further departures of NEOM officials linked to Al-Nasr are anticipated. NEOM, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to diversify the economy from oil and improve sectors like health and tourism.
This shift towards sports infrastructure aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader ambition to enhance its global presence through high-profile events. The project’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy reflects global trends, and its outcomes may impact future urban development initiatives.