10 Burning Questions About NEOM—Finally Answered

Curious about NEOM but overwhelmed by the buzz? You’re not alone. As Saudi Arabia’s $500 billion megacity continues to make headlines, the world is watching—and wondering. Here are the 10 most frequently asked questions about NEOM, answered clearly so you can understand what all the hype is about.

1. What is NEOM?

NEOM is a futuristic region currently under development in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Unveiled in 2017, it aims to be a hub for innovation, clean energy, AI, biotech, tourism, and more. NEOM is not just a city—it’s a vision for a new model of civilization.

2. Where is NEOM located?

NEOM stretches across 26,500 square kilometers along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba in the Tabuk region. Its location connects Asia, Europe, and Africa—positioning it at the intersection of global trade routes.

3. What are the key components of NEOM?

NEOM is made up of several major sub-projects:

• The Line: A 170km-long city without roads or cars.
• Oxagon: The world’s largest floating industrial complex.
• Trojena: A mountain destination with year-round skiing.
• Sindalah: A luxury Red Sea island that opened in 2024. Each one targets a different area of innovation, tourism, or industry.

4. What is NEOM’s purpose?

NEOM aims to drive Saudi Arabia’s shift away from oil dependence. It’s a testing ground for new industries and ideas—serving as a global magnet for talent, capital, and cutting-edge technology. It’s also designed to set new benchmarks for sustainability and quality of life.

5. How is NEOM being funded?

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia is the primary investor behind NEOM, with a long-term commitment. The project is also actively seeking private and international investment, including a $3 billion loan guarantee from Italy’s SACE in 2024.

6. What’s the timeline for completion?

While some parts—like Sindalah—opened in 2024, other areas like The Line and Oxagon are in active development. The full vision of NEOM is expected to unfold over the next two decades, with significant milestones by 2030 and completion stretching to 2045 or beyond.

7. Is NEOM environmentally sustainable?

Yes—sustainability is at NEOM’s core. It plans to be powered entirely by renewable energy, with zero cars, zero carbon emissions, and a focus on conservation. However, environmentalists continue to monitor its real-world impact.

8. How are local communities affected?

NEOM has required land for development, which has impacted local communities. The Saudi government has promised fair compensation and engagement, but the project has faced scrutiny from human rights groups regarding relocations.

9. Can foreigners live and work in NEOM?

Absolutely. NEOM is designed to be a multicultural, global city. It’s actively recruiting talent from around the world across industries like architecture, tech, engineering, tourism, and environmental science.

10. How does NEOM fit into Vision 2030?

NEOM is one of the crown jewels of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. It embodies the goals of economic diversification, innovation, sustainability, and global integration. It’s not the whole vision—but it’s the most visible and ambitious symbol of it.

Final Word

Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, an urban designer, or just someone watching from afar—NEOM is one of the most fascinating projects of the 21st century. And as it rises from the desert, it’s rewriting what we thought was possible.

This article is published in The Vision Gazette, where Saudi Arabia’s future takes shape.