NEOM: The Pinnacle of Innovation in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

NEOM, a $500 billion futuristic megacity in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Province, stands as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification. Launched in 2017 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this ambitious project is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at transforming the Kingdom into a global hub for technology and renewable energy. Spanning 26,500 square kilometers, NEOM is redefining urban living by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, and smart city technologies, positioning itself as a model for the cities of tomorrow.

A Visionary Blueprint for the Future

NEOM, derived from the Greek word “neo” (new) and Arabic “mustaqbal” (future), embodies a bold vision to create a “new future” powered by 100% renewable energy. The project is designed to attract global businesses, foster innovation, and generate approximately $100 billion in annual revenue by 2030, significantly boosting Saudi Arabia’s GDP. NEOM’s multifaceted regions—THE LINE, Oxagon, Trojena, and Sindalah—each contribute uniquely to its mission of sustainable growth and technological advancement.

THE LINE: A Linear Smart City Revolution

THE LINE, a 170-kilometer-long linear city, is a groundbreaking urban concept with no cars, no streets, and zero carbon emissions. Housed in a sleek, glass-mirrored structure 500 meters tall and 200 meters wide, THE LINE prioritizes pedestrian-friendly living, ensuring all essential services are within a five-minute walk. By 2034, the first 2.4-kilometer segment is expected to be completed, with plans to house up to 9 million residents by 2045. Powered by AI-driven transportation and IoT-enabled infrastructure, THE LINE exemplifies smart city innovation, blending efficiency with environmental stewardship.

Oxagon: The Industrial Hub of Tomorrow

Oxagon, a floating port city in the Gulf of Aqaba, is set to become a global logistics and manufacturing powerhouse. Fully automated and powered by renewable energy, Oxagon will host advanced research centers, a massive green hydrogen facility, and innovative factories. A recent $5 billion deal with DataVolt, announced in February 2025, will establish a 1.5-gigawatt net-zero AI data center, operational by 2028, reinforcing Oxagon’s role as a hub for AI-driven industrial solutions. This region is poised to drive economic growth through sustainable manufacturing and cutting-edge technology.

Trojena: A Year-Round Adventure Destination

Trojena, nestled in NEOM’s mountains, is a luxury resort destination set to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, a testament to its global appeal. Offering year-round outdoor activities, from skiing to cultural festivals, Trojena blends adventure with sustainability. Its innovative architecture and renewable energy systems ensure minimal environmental impact, while its planned completion by 2029 will attract tourists and investors alike, further diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy.

Sindalah: A Luxury Island Oasis

Sindalah, NEOM’s first completed region, opened in October 2024 as a luxury island destination in the Red Sea. Featuring world-class resorts, marinas, and eco-friendly infrastructure, Sindalah sets the standard for sustainable tourism. With 95% of its land preserved for natural spaces, it aligns with Vision 2030’s commitment to environmental conservation while offering an unparalleled lifestyle experience for global visitors.

Jaumur: A Coastal Haven for Vibrant Living

Jaumur, an exclusive coastal community along the Gulf of Aqaba, is designed to blend luxury living with cultural vibrancy. Set to house 150,000 residents, Jaumur features a stunning marina for superyachts, world-class hospitality, and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. Its iconic centerpiece, a 1.5-kilometer aero-dynamic tower, will serve as a beacon for innovation and design. With sustainable architecture and renewable energy at its core, Jaumur is poised to attract global residents and visitors, offering a harmonious balance of leisure, creativity, and environmental consciousness, further enhancing NEOM’s appeal as a global destination.

Technology and AI at the Core

NEOM is a living laboratory for emerging technologies, with AI, IoT, and robotics seamlessly integrated into daily life. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) plays a pivotal role, driving NEOM’s AI agenda through strategic partnerships with global tech giants like Huawei, IBM, and Alibaba Cloud. The 2020 National Strategy for Data and AI aims to train 20,000 specialists and establish 300 AI startups by 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia among the top 15 AI nations. NEOM’s AI-driven solutions enhance everything from urban planning and healthcare to transportation and security, creating an adaptive, resident-centric ecosystem.

The NEOM Challenge, launched by SDAIA in 2020, engaged over 400 students from 39 Saudi universities to develop innovative AI solutions for energy, entertainment, and transportation. With prizes exceeding SR500,000, this initiative underscores NEOM’s commitment to fostering local talent and innovation. Additionally, collaborations with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) are advancing AI applications for sustainable development, ensuring NEOM’s technologies align with global standards.

Sustainability: A Core Pillar

NEOM’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering. Powered entirely by wind and solar energy, the city aims to set a global benchmark for carbon neutrality. Its subsidiary, ENOWA, focuses on renewable energy, green hydrogen, and zero-waste desalination, supporting NEOM’s goal of environmental preservation. Projects like Leyja, a planned tourist destination, preserve 95% of its land for natural spaces, while biodiversity conservation zones protect endangered species through rewilding programs. NEOM’s agricultural initiatives, spanning 6,500 hectares, leverage genetically engineered crops to ensure food security, aligning with Vision 2030’s sustainable development goals.

Economic Impact and Global Appeal

NEOM is a catalyst for economic diversification, reducing Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has committed $500 billion, with additional investments from local and international partners, ensuring robust financial backing. By 2039, NEOM is projected to create 460,000 jobs and contribute $48 billion to the Kingdom’s GDP. Its business-friendly policies, relaxed visa regulations, and incentives for tech companies are attracting global talent and investment, positioning NEOM as a rival to tech hubs like the UAE.

The Global AI Summit, hosted annually in Saudi Arabia, showcases NEOM’s advancements, drawing experts, investors, and policymakers worldwide. In 2022, a $200 million deal with SenseTime established a state-of-the-art AI lab, while the ‘Elevate’ initiative with Google Cloud aims to train 25,000 women in AI and machine learning by 2027. These efforts highlight NEOM’s role as a global leader in technological innovation.

A Cultural and Social Transformation

NEOM aligns with Vision 2030’s social goals, promoting inclusivity and cultural transformation. By increasing women’s roles in leadership and fostering arts and entertainment, NEOM is creating a vibrant, progressive society. Its focus on exceptional livability ensures residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to world-class education, healthcare, and recreation. The city’s multicultural environment, spanning territories from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, fosters global collaboration and cultural exchange.

Conclusion

NEOM is more than a city; it’s a bold vision for a sustainable, tech-driven future. By harnessing AI, renewable energy, and smart city technologies, NEOM is redefining urban living while driving Saudi Arabia’s economic and social transformation. With its innovative regions, global partnerships, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, NEOM is poised to become a global hub for innovation, attracting talent, investment, and admiration worldwide. As it progresses toward its 2039 completion, NEOM stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and technological ambition, paving the way for a brighter, more connected world.