NEOM is Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plan to create a futuristic mega-city where innovation, sustainability, and forward-thinking design converge. Announced in 2017 under Vision 2030, this project spans 26,500 km² in Tabuk Province and aims to transform how we live and work.
In this 2025 guide, you’ll discover what NEOM really means, its cost, major projects like The Line and Trojena, current status, and what to expect in the coming years.
Quick Facts: NEOM Saudi Arabia
- Meaning: “Neo” (new) + “M” (for Mohammed / future)
- Area: ~26,500 km² in Tabuk Province
- Founded: 2017 · Owner: Public Investment Fund (PIF)
- Estimated Cost: USD 500 billion+ (some estimates higher)
- Major Projects: The Line · Oxagon · Trojena · Sindalah
Key Projects in NEOM
The Line
A linear smart city running for ~170 km, designed to house millions, with no cars & 100% renewable energy. There have been updates regarding the feasibility and redesign.
Oxagon
Float-industrial complex over Red Sea water, focusing on advanced manufacturing and research.
Trojena
Mountain resort with year-round skiing, outdoor recreation, and tourism infrastructure.
Sindalah
Luxury Red Sea island for tourism, marinas, and yachts.
Other Zones (Leyja, Aquellum, etc.)
Newer zones announced to expand NEOM’s footprint and diversify its offerings.
Cost, Timeline & Status Updates
- Original budget: ~USD 500B, but cost escalations suggest higher figures.
- Some projects (e.g. Sindalah) have visibly moved forward; others (e.g. The Line) are under review or redesign.
- Timeline: many parts expected to be functional by mid-2020s; long-term components likely to stretch beyond 2030.
Governance & Leadership
- Owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
- CEO role has seen changes — keeping updated with the current leader is important for credibility.
- Legal/economic zone setup includes special regulations, sustainability mandates, and innovation requirements.
Misconceptions & Criticism
- Is NEOM actually going to be built? Yes—but scaled versions; some plans have been modified.
- What about environmental & human rights concerns? Acknowledged in various reports; part of the public debate.
- Is NEOM just a vision vs reality? Many completed projects show progress (Sindalah, preliminary infrastructure).
FAQs
- What does NEOM mean in Saudi Arabia?
It represents “new future” — combining “Neo” (new) with “M” (Mohammed / future). - How much will NEOM cost?
Estimated at around USD 500 billion+, but some sources suggest much larger costs depending on the scope. - Who is the CEO of NEOM?
The leadership has changed; refer to the latest “About NEOM” from the official NEOM site for current information. - Is NEOM going to be built?
Yes, many components are underway; some are delayed or redesigned, but most master plans remain active. - When will NEOM be completed?
There’s no one single completion date; many opening phases are expected in the mid-2020s; full build-out may continue into the 2030s. - Can you visit NEOM today?
Certain areas, like Sindalah, are open for visitors; others are not yet operational. Always check with NEOM’s official tourism portal.
Conclusion
NEOM is not just a futuristic dream—it’s a landmark project that stretches Saudi Arabia’s ambition in innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness. While many parts are still under development and costs are large, the direction is clear: expect bold projects like The Line, Trojena, and Oxagon to define the region’s landscape increasingly.
For travelers, NEOM complements iconic destinations like Mecca and Medina and evolving hubs such as Riyadh. Investors can also connect the NEOM story to Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 mega projects, shaping the Kingdom’s future economy.
Whether you’re an investor, traveler, or curious viewer, understanding NEOM’s vision and status is essential to seeing Saudi Arabia’s upcoming chapter.
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