Satellite images reveal that Saudi Arabia’s Neom project includes a lavish palace for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, featuring private beaches, gardens, a golf course, and multiple helipads. The project is central to diversifying the Saudi economy away from oil dependency. Challenges in attracting foreign investments and addressing human rights issues impact the ambitious timeline of the Neom initiative.
Satellite imagery obtained by Business Insider reveals ongoing developments in Saudi Arabia’s Neom project, particularly highlighting a lavish palace associated with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Located along the Red Sea coast in the northeast region of Saudi Arabia, the palace features private beaches, expansive gardens, a golf course, and ten helipads.
The insights from the satellite images, captured by Maxar Technologies in January, indicate that the palace forms part of a broader initiative to construct five royal palaces approximately 105 miles west of Tabuk. These plans, which include Moroccan-style architecture and luxury amenities, align with information disclosed in a 2018 Reuters report regarding initial Neom contracts awarded.
The Neom project is a centerpiece of Crown Prince Mohammed’s vision to diversify the Saudi economy beyond fossil fuels, emphasizing technology, innovation, and tourism. The documentary from Business Insider showcases the ambitious development of “The Line,” a proposed 110-mile-long vertical city, while addressing various controversies surrounding the design, environmental implications, and human rights issues.
Originally, the entirety of The Line was set to inaugurate by 2030; however, current projections indicate that only a partial segment, specifically a 1.5-mile “Hidden Marina,” will meet this timeline. Furthermore, Crown Prince Mohammed is known for his luxurious assets, including a $300 million chateau in France and a $400 million superyacht.
Despite Saudi Arabia investing substantial oil revenues into the Neom project, reports suggest challenges in attracting adequate foreign investments to fulfill the ambitious construction schedules. Neom has yet to provide any comment in response to inquiries from Business Insider.
In conclusion, the satellite images expose a magnificent palace under construction within the Neom megacity project, which symbolizes the broader aims of Saudi Arabia to shift its economic focus. The lavish features and scale of the palace reflect the luxurious lifestyle of its rulers, while the Neom initiative continues to face scrutiny and investment challenges. Sustainable and ethical considerations remain central to the project as it moves forward.
Original Source: www.businessinsider.com
