New images of the $2 trillion (€1.8 billion) city in Saudi Arabia, considered by many to be an “impossible” mission, have finally been released, revealing a glimpse of the ambitious project known as The Line.
The Line is the country’s bold attempt to build a city for nine million people, stretching 169 kilometers across the desert, by 2030. Recent images provide updates on that project, although some doubts remain.
Located in the Tabuk region of Saudi Arabia, the urban area is called NEOM, after the construction company behind this multi-million dollar project. Among the project’s future elements is a mirrored skyscraper and floating buildings above NEOM’s private marina.
But what is Marina’s goal? In addition to a private beach, a luxury golf resort, it is intended to house luxury yachts for the residents of “A Linha”, and even a playground located 300 meters above the ground.
Described by NEOM’s social media accounts as a place that will “change the way we live” and “redefine livability,” the initial goal was to house 1.5 million people within the revolutionary city’s borders by 2030.
Aerial photos published show buildings “floating” above the marina, indicating an imagined future. However, critics point out that this vision may not line up with reality, raising environmental concerns, such as potential impacts on local birds.
Moreover, from the beginning of this ambitious project, experts have questioned the environmental impacts and human rights issues involved. The local Al-Huwaitat tribe protested the forced removal of their homes to make way for The Line project, while foreign workers reported abusive working conditions.
While the city aims to complete it by 2030, much of the project remains shrouded in secrecy, with speculation surrounding its final cost, which could reach $2 trillion (1.8 billion euros), if all phases are implemented as planned.
This huge project is an initiative of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the country’s economy away from dependence on oil.
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