Known as The Line, this linear urban development was to redefine the concept of a city, boasting a 105-mile stretch of glass-walled structures in the desert. However, recent developments suggest a considerable scale back, with the project now expected to extend merely a mile and a half by 2030, a far cry from its original scope.
The Line: A Vision of the Future Confronts Reality
Envisioned as part of the broader Neom project, the Line promised a revolutionary approach to urban living. Designed to house around 9 million people within 13 square miles, the project was a bold statement against traditional city planning, featuring car-free streets and one of the world’s fastest trains for connectivity.
The vision was not just about building a city but about creating a new way of life, as promoted. However, recent reports indicate that the project is under pressure, with budget constraints and a changing vision leading to downsized ambitions and layoffs among contractors.
Challenges and Criticisms: The Road Ahead for Neom
The journey of The Line from a grandiose dream to its current state reflects broader challenges within Saudi Arabia‘s ambitious Neom project. Initially pitched with a budget of $1.5 trillion, the venture aimed to position itself as a landmark of urban innovation.
Yet, it has been stuck in controversy and scepticism, from the displacement of tribes to allegations of unrealistic planning and execution. The financial underpinnings of the project have also come into question, with the 2024 budget for Neom still pending approval amid fading cash reserves of the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund.
Promoted as a leap into a utopian future, where artificial intelligence ensures an unparalleled quality of life, The Line has faced its share of criticism for its elevated ambitions.
Critics argue that the project’s portrayal often veers into the realm of fantasy, overshadowing practical and ethical concerns. As Saudi Arabia moves forward with its vision for Neom, balancing ambitious innovation with realistic planning and sensitivity to human and environmental impacts remains a critical challenge.