The Line megaproject, included in the Neom program, in Saudi Arabia is the biggest megaproject we have seen so far in the history of mankind. It is supposed to consist of two 170km long and 500m high skyscrapers, it is the equivalent of 2000 World Trade Center buildings. Calling the idea insane would be an understatement, but it has supposedly started construction.
The goal of the Line project is to create a vibrant and sustainable urban environment that will attract and retain talent, foster economic growth, and drive innovation in the region. To achieve this, the project will focus on building a strong ecosystem for entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors and providing the necessary infrastructure and support to help them succeed. Its creation will also create 380 thousand jobs, and there is a risk that Saudi Arabia will use a similar method of cheap nearly slave-like workers as Qatar did for its preparation for the 2022 Mundial.
It is supposed to house 9 million people if it’s complete, and have no cars. It will be connected via a superfast train line controlled by Artificial Intelligence. Also, everything a resident would need would be within a 5min walk.
One of the key features of the City Line project is its focus on sustainability. The project aims to be a model of green urban development, with a focus on reducing energy consumption, promoting the use of renewable energy sources, and improving air quality. To this end, the project is expected to include a variety of green building standards, such as LEED certification, and to incorporate technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient lighting.
In addition to its focus on sustainability, the Line project is also expected to include a range of amenities and services that will make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. These could include parks, public squares, cultural centers, and other recreational and social facilities. It will also be a huge tourist attraction.
Despite the ambitious nature of the City Line project, there are still many questions about its timeline, funding, and specific components. However, there are sightings of worksites in the region where the Line is supposed to be, but we can’t be sure when the project will be completed or if ever. Currently, we are not in the clear as to how much the project will cost or how it will be funded. It is called a trillion-dollar project but these are just speculations.
Overall, the City Line megaproject in Saudi Arabia is an exciting initiative that has the potential to completely revolutionize the way we think about mankind and its capabilities. While there are still many unknowns about the project, its focus on sustainability, innovation, and creating a vibrant urban environment make it a promising development for the city and the region.
I wonder if this project if it comes to life, will truly attract this many young entrepreneurs, business people, corporate workers, managers, etc. Because having an area made especially made for economic growth is one thing, but would people want to live in such an environment? Honestly, it reminds me a bit of the city in the Lego Movie. Life in this project could possibly be quite monotonous, if you would not even have to drive anywhere, because everything is so close, in this one urban area.