The project Neomlaunched in 2017 by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Ben Salman, symbolizes the kingdom's ambition to establish itself at the forefront of urban innovation. With a titanic budget estimated at 500 billion dollarsthis architectural project located in the desert of northwest Saudi Arabia is part of the Vision 2030 program, which aims to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons. But despite its futuristic promises, Neom faces significant challenges that raise questions about its feasibility and influence.
Neom: what is behind these ambitious projects?
Neom is a mosaic of spectacular elements intended to transform the region into a global hub of innovation and luxury. Among these components is a strategic commercial port on the Red Sea to strengthen the Saudi commercial position. There's also an ultra-luxurious island resort, designed to attract the ultra-rich from around the world.
Another daring idea: a ski resort in mountains that are almost never snow-covered, thus defying Mother Nature to offer a unique experience to visitors. However, it is “The Line”, this futuristic city and techno hub spanning over 150 kmwhich really captures the attention. Imagine a glass wall reaching 500 meters tall!
Despite the great ambitions, the development of Neom fell quite behind schedule and the objectives had to be revised. Last October, only the chic resort island Sindalah was inaugurated — meager progress compared to initial expectations. As for “The Line”, although the plan called for reaching 170 km in 2023only 2,4 km have emerged so far.
These delays are due to several factors such as management problems and difficult conditions encountered by workers. Next to 100 000 Workers mainly from Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Philippines work there in often precarious conditions. Housed in camps where hygiene leaves much to be desired, they also suffer serious abuses such as “gang rapes, attempted murder and drug trafficking”.
When humans and infrastructure clash
The human and infrastructural consequences linked to the Neom project are seriously worrying. Rapid infrastructure growth has led to a notable increase in road accidents in the region. Incidents as serious as children as young as eight years old driving trucks have been reported.
In addition, the surprise departure of CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr at the end 2024 added to the internal turmoil of the project. His interim successor, Aiman Al-Mudaifer, tried to explain these adventures by invoking the upheaval inherent in a project of such magnitude.
A worrying human picture
The figures paint a worrying human picture since the launch of the Vision 2030 program in 2016 in Saudi Arabia. A British documentary reveals that 21,000 Indian, Bangladeshi and Nepalese nationals have died in the country since that date.
Aiman Al-Mudaifer nevertheless assures that Neom is “entering a new phase”, hoping to turn things around despite all the obstacles encountered so far.
As Neom continues its bumpy path towards partial or total realization, it is essential for international and local observers to carefully analyze not only the technological advances but also the social and ethical implications associated with this colossal futuristic urban project. (a real headache!).
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