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'Wall of Death for Birds': Saudi Arabia's 105-Mile Mirror Megastructure Will Obliterate Wildlife Along Vital Migration Routes
'Wall of Death for Birds': Saudi Arabia's 105-Mile Mirror Megastructure Will Obliterate Wildlife Along Vital Migration Routes

Sustainability Times

time3 hours ago

  • General
  • Sustainability Times

'Wall of Death for Birds': Saudi Arabia's 105-Mile Mirror Megastructure Will Obliterate Wildlife Along Vital Migration Routes

IN A NUTSHELL 🌍 The Line project in Saudi Arabia is a transformative urban initiative spanning 105 miles, aiming to redefine city living with sustainability. project in Saudi Arabia is a transformative urban initiative spanning 105 miles, aiming to redefine city living with sustainability. 🦅 Environmental concerns arise due to the project's impact on migratory bird routes, as the mirrored exterior poses a collision risk for birds. 🚧 Construction delays are anticipated, with only 300,000 residents expected by 2030, far fewer than the planned nine million. ⚖️ The project highlights the challenge of balancing innovation with ecological preservation, sparking global discussions on sustainable urban development. The ambitious Line project in Saudi Arabia is stirring a significant dialogue across the globe. As part of the Vision 2030 initiative, this 105-mile long urban endeavor promises to redefine city living through cutting-edge design and eco-friendly technology. Yet, amidst its futuristic allure, the project is shadowed by environmental concerns, particularly the threat it poses to migratory birds. This article explores the immense ambition driving The Line, the potential ecological repercussions, and the broader implications for urban development in harmony with nature. The Scale and Ambition of The Line Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has set the stage for groundbreaking transformations, with The Line being a centerpiece of this initiative. Spanning 105 miles and soaring 1,640 feet, this linear city aims to accommodate nine million residents. Its mirrored facade is designed to seamlessly integrate with the desert landscape, embodying a commitment to advanced sustainability. The city promises to be a beacon of eco-conscious innovation, showcasing how urban living can evolve in tandem with technological progress. However, this impressive ambition is not without its challenges. The project has drawn significant scrutiny from environmentalists who fear its impact on the surrounding ecosystems. The towering walls of glass, integral to the city's aesthetic, could pose lethal threats to bird populations migrating along this critical corridor. The reflective surfaces, while visually striking, risk becoming deadly obstacles for avian species mistaking them for open sky or water. Thus, while the project aims to lead in urban innovation, it also faces the daunting task of addressing these environmental concerns. 'America's First Nuclear Reactor in 50 Years': This Ultra-Compact Power Source Will Deliver Electricity Where No Grid Can Reach Environmental Implications and Avian Threats The environmental implications of The Line are profound, particularly concerning the region's migratory bird routes. Each year, billions of birds traverse this area, relying on it as a key passage between their seasonal habitats. The mirrored exterior of The Line stands as a potential hazard, as birds often collide with reflective surfaces that they mistake for natural elements. Environmental assessments have underscored the dangers posed by such a design. Experts emphasize that the project must reconcile its urban ambitions with the preservation of natural habitats. The threat to birdlife is not just a matter of individual species loss; it represents a broader challenge to maintaining ecological balance. As The Line advances, the question looms: can urban development and environmental preservation coexist without detrimental consequences? 'Deepest Hole on Earth': Quaise Energy Unveils Revolutionary Wave Drilling Tech to Pierce the Planet's Crust Like Never Before Construction Hurdles and Project Delays In addition to ecological concerns, The Line is grappling with substantial construction delays. Initially slated to house nine million residents by 2030, projections now suggest that only 300,000 individuals will reside there by the deadline. These delays stem from the complex task of developing such a vast project in an environmentally sensitive region. Beyond logistical challenges, the project is a flashpoint for debates on urban growth versus environmental stewardship. The ambitious scope of The Line prompts critical questions: Can large-scale urbanization coexist with nature conservation? What ecological costs are we prepared to bear for the promise of futuristic cities? As construction moves forward, these questions remain at the forefront of discussions on the project's feasibility and impact. Japan Stuns the World with 310,000-Ton Oil Behemoth That Shatters Records and Reinvents the Future of Energy Transport Balancing Innovation and Ecological Preservation The Line project embodies the intricate balance between human innovation and environmental care. While poised to usher in a new era of urban living, its ecological footprint and impact on local wildlife cannot be ignored. The massive construction endeavors threaten to overshadow its potential benefits, especially concerning migratory birds. As we look toward the future, the challenge lies in innovating without compromising the natural world. Can sustainable cities emerge without sacrificing the ecosystems that sustain our planet's biodiversity? The Line may serve as both a symbol of progress and a cautionary tale, illustrating the environmental consequences of unchecked development. As Saudi Arabia strives to bring this visionary project to life, the world watches closely, pondering the potential outcomes of such a daring venture. In examining The Line, we confront a critical question: how can we pursue technological dreams while ensuring the protection of our natural environment? The unfolding story of this urban experiment invites reflection on the balance between progress and preservation, urging us to consider the future we wish to build. What lessons will we learn from Saudi Arabia's ambitious endeavor, and how will they shape our approach to sustainable development? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (22)

Meet the ‘Neom' WAGS – glam Brit TikTok housewives of Saudis building $1tn mega city… and why it's hiding a dark secret
Meet the ‘Neom' WAGS – glam Brit TikTok housewives of Saudis building $1tn mega city… and why it's hiding a dark secret

The Irish Sun

time2 days ago

  • The Irish Sun

Meet the ‘Neom' WAGS – glam Brit TikTok housewives of Saudis building $1tn mega city… and why it's hiding a dark secret

IN the deserts of north-western Saudi Arabia sits a gated Brit family enclave - and while wives stay home to look after their young kids, their husbands are busy building Neom - the $1 trillion mega-city. But the glamorous Brit influencers also act like they too are working for the project as they spend their days posting social media content, painting a glossy picture of life there - but it hides a dark secret. 19 Women who live in Neom have taken to TikTok to share what life is like there Credit: TikTok/follow_eisha 19 A dozen now-influencers - most with young children - made the move months or even years ago Credit: instagram/@aidamcphrsn 19 A residential facility in NEOM designed for 10,000 residents A dozen now-influencers - most with young children - made the move months or even years ago as their husbands landed various jobs working for the Saudi project. The high salaries are said to be the main attraction for a new life in the desert - as well as the often free accommodation - with some senior executives offered over $1 million annually. It appears that most, if not all of the women had normal jobs before taking up social media as they moved thousands of miles away. And, by offering an insight into the project and their luxurious life there, the women have accumulated thousands of followers across Instagram and TikTok. Footage uploaded to social media shows perfect pre-schools, playgrounds, virtually zero traffic and community-building activities like coffee mornings for the housewives. Families also come together in a central food hall on the site for buffet-style eating for every meal of the day. The temporary accommodations are also equipped with luxury amenities like swimming pools, spa facilities, playgrounds and football pitches. One TikToker shared a video on how items compare price-wise in Saudi supermarkets, with a punnet of strawberries or blueberries costing up to £10. But the Brit expat insists, "considering where we are, the prices are really really good". And to help deal with such a change in environment, UK chocolates and sweets are stocked on the shelves. Humiliation for Saudi Arabia as £1trillion 110-mile long sideways skyscraper The Line will only be 1% of planned size But the rosy image posted of Neom couldn't be further from the underlying truth, having been built on bloodshed and slavery - with women in the country reportedly slaughtered for speaking out against the ruling regime. Neom was announced as part of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's Project 2030 in 2017 - a major push to wean the oil-rich nation's economy off its reliance on fossil fuels. The anticipated cost of delivering the gargantuan scheme is reported to have spiralled from a $500bn (£386bn) estimate to a head-spinning $8.8 trillion (£6.8 trillion), according to But even more shocking are the human rights abuses and brutal conditions for workers looming over Neom - issues that have plagued the country well before the project. I absolutely love the community here, and I just wouldn't change it for the world. Samantha Brit mum As many as But as some international workers continue to ensure the high-tech, blood-soaked utopia is built on time, their families are residing in a gated community equipped with everything they could possibly need - including a Starbucks. Nick McGeehan from NGO FairSquare told The Sun how mumfluencers in Saudi are "very clearly a public relations strategy" - and "quite an effective one". He said: "It is trying to attract all sorts of investment into the country to sort of realise its commercial ambitions for the country, and to do that, it needs to sort of exhibit this progressive, tolerant face. 19 Brit mum Samara films day-in-the-life videos in Neom Credit: TikTok/@ 19 Brit mum Samantha shows off her new lifestyle over 4,000 miles away Credit: TikTok/@ 19 The temporary accommodations are also equipped with luxury amenities like swimming pools, spa facilities, playgrounds and football pitches 19 It remains unclear when Neom will finally be completed Credit: NEOM "Western women are a key part of that. Sending this message to audiences that this is a safe place, it's a good place for families, is very important to them. "And of course, the reality in Saudi Arabia is quite different to the one that's being presented, unfortunately." Life in Neom Brit mum Samantha films day-in-the-life videos showing off her new lifestyle over 4,000 miles away. This consists of school runs, gym sessions and salon appointments, which she describes as "great" and "amazing" in nearly all of her videos. Similarly, another Brit mumfluencer Samara has lived at the compound for over two years. She has dubbed her time on Neom as "incredible" and, like Samantha, shows off the amenities and what she and her family get up to day-to-day. Samara says in one video: "I can't believe I am saying this, but it has been nearly two years since I packed up my life in the UK and I got on an aeroplane with my then five-week-old baby to move to somewhere that I had never ever been before. "It was absolutely madness if you ask me but honestly it was the best decision I have ever made in my life and it still is. "I absolutely love the community here, and I just wouldn't change it for the world." 19 Influencers have showed off Neom's vast, traffic-free, facilities Credit: TikTok/@sarasarasid 19 Neom is envisaged as a futuristic city in the desert Credit: @neom / instagram 19 It was announced as part of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's Project 2030 in 2017 Credit: @neom / instagram Despite previous denials from Neom that influencers aren't paid, Nick has his doubts. He said: "I would be very surprised if there wasn't a commercial dimension to this. "We've seen this in the past, and we know that Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States spend millions and millions of pounds on public relations, and they're very smart how they do it." Just two weeks ago, Saudi journalist Turki al-Jasser was executed for "high treason". He was the founder of news blog The Saudi Scene, which is said to have regularly addressed topics in the country, like its infamous lack of rights for women. Nick pointed out how the life of expat influencers in Saudi differs greatly from the women who were born and raised there. The reality is, it's still quite a brutal place for anyone who wants to speak out, and it's still not a great place for women to go because of the way that women are still second-class citizens in the country Nick McGeehan NGO FairSquare Women's rights are incredibly patchy in the country and women exercise little control over their marriage , children, education, and even healthcare. Only six years ago were Saudi women were granted the right to drive. It is also known that women are being jailed, starved and flogged in "hellish" Saudi prisons for being "disobedient" to their husbands. Documented cases show various evidence of abuse and neglect at the notorious Dar al-Re'aya Prisoners are left malnourished and locked up in solitary confinement, the organisation claims. Several cases of suicide attempts in recent years have also been reported. 19 Harrowing footage shows an inmate trying to escape a notorious Dar al-Re'aya prison Credit: Facebook 19 Saudi human resources professional Mashael al-Jaloud, 33, walks in western clothes past women wearing niqab, an Islamic dress-code for women Credit: Getty 19 A Saudi woman celebrates as she drives her car in her neighborhood, in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia in 2018 19 The project has been plagued by delays and setbacks Credit: Neom The name of the jails, Dar al-Re'aya, literally translates to "care homes ". They have existed since the 1960s and were initially presented as a rehabilitative "shelter" for women accused or convicted of certain crimes. The infamous cells house women and girls between the ages of just seven to 30. Nick said: "We cannot believe the sort of public relations image that we're sold about the country from influencers on TikTok and other social media. "The reality is, it's still quite a brutal place for anyone who wants to speak out, and it's still not a great place for women to go because of the way that women are still second-class citizens in the country." Nick believes it is "dangerous" to perpetuate this kind of unrealistic lifestyle on social media, based on the idea "you just have to shut up, consume, shop, sunbathe - and don't say a goddamn thing about what's going on to the people who've stood up and ask for their basic rights". He concluded: "It's cheap PR, right?" Some influencers living in Neom have been approached for comment. Futuristic city Neom is to be an unbelievable futuristic city across 26,000 sqft on the Red Sea and will include smaller projects like Some infrastructure in the plans includes floating buildings, as well as ultra-luxurious holiday and ski resorts. 19 The anticipated cost of delivering the gargantuan scheme is reported to have spiralled Credit: Rise 19 Neom continues to fall chronically behind schedule Credit: Neom 19 Sci-fi ideas from levitating trains to an artificial moon are reported to have been among the features of the project Credit: Rise But even after eight years, little progress has been made. And the project has been the subject of a number of controversies. One former employee has shared their story of working at the gigaproject with The Sun, shedding light on the atrocities taking place behind Neom's doors. Rights organisations have long blasted the Saudi regime's record on workers' welfare, with a recent Human Rights Watch report detailing the "gruesome yet avoidable" deaths faced by many migrant workers. The advocacy group mentions that some workers died falling Human Rights Watch researcher Joey Shea told The Sun: "Unfortunately, migrant workers in Saudi Arabia continue to face widespread abuses, some of which may amount to situations of forced labour, including at high-profile gigaprojects. 19 Many experts have questioned the viability of the proposals Credit: @neom / instagram 19 Widespread problems with workers' rights have been reported across these projects Credit: AFP "On Neom, Human Rights Watch has found that ambitious targets set by Saudi authorities have tight and unrealistic deadlines which can lead employers to demand that workers continue to work under dangerous conditions. "Migrant workers in Saudi Arabia experience illegal and exorbitant recruitment fees, limits to job mobility, obstacles exiting the country, as well as serious health and safety risks." Michael, whose name has been changed to protect his identity, told The Sun that the project is unlikely to be anywhere near complete before 2055. Talking about delays, Michael said: "From the very beginning, Neom had a very long timeline. "There were certain objectives they wanted to achieve by 2030, but most of the leadership were aware of a longer timeframe." Michael said Neom's management has "overspent quite a bit" since its announcement. He says: "They were focusing on way too many things at the same time. "They just wanted everything at the highest level possible. The biggest entertainment complex in the world. The biggest media studio in the region. "No matter how much money you throw at the thing, it takes more than just money to make it work." The much hyped project, aided by an aggressive social media marketing campaign, has sought to big up Neom as a vision of futuristic city living. Sci-fi ideas from features of the project. But Neom continues to fall chronically behind schedule, with many of its most ambitious projects still looking like a distant dream. Top 5 blunders plaguing NEOM project By Juliana Cruz Lima, Foreign News Reporter Saudi Arabia's NEOM project, despite its ambitious vision, has been criticized for several major blunders that have raised concerns about its feasibility, ethics, and overall execution. Here are the top five major blunders associated with the project: Forced Displacement of Indigenous Communities : One of the most significant controversies surrounding NEOM is the forced displacement of the Huwaitat tribe. This indigenous community, which has lived in the area for centuries, was forcibly removed from their ancestral lands to make way for the development of the mega-city. The Saudi government's crackdown on those who resisted, including the killing of a tribal leader, Abdul Rahim al-Howeiti, has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organisations. This blunder not only sparked international outrage but also tainted NEOM's image as a forward-thinking, humane project. Environmental Impact and Sustainability Concerns : NEOM has been marketed as an environmentally sustainable city, but the environmental impact of such a massive development is a major concern. The project's scale—covering over 26,500 square kilometers—poses significant risks to local ecosystems, particularly in the Red Sea, which is home to rich marine biodiversity. Critics argue that the construction of artificial islands and extensive urbanisation could lead to irreversible ecological damage. The enormous water and energy demands required to maintain a green city in the desert also raise questions about the project's sustainability. Economic Viability and Cost Overruns : NEOM is one of the most expensive development projects in history. But there are serious doubts about its economic viability. Critics question whether the project can attract the necessary foreign investment and whether it will generate sufficient returns to justify the enormous expenditure. The economic risks are further compounded by potential cost overruns and delays, which are common in megaprojects of this scale. This financial gamble has led some to worry that NEOM could become a costly white elephant if it fails to meet its ambitious goals. Technological Overreach and Ethical Concerns : NEOM is envisioned as a high-tech city, heavily reliant on artificial intelligence, robotics, and extensive surveillance systems. While this technological ambition is central to NEOM's identity, it also raises significant ethical concerns. The level of surveillance planned for the city could lead to unprecedented control over residents' lives, sparking fears about privacy and civil liberties. The lack of transparency about how AI will be used, coupled with concerns about job displacement, has also led to criticism that NEOM's technological vision may be more dystopian than utopian. Cultural and Social Disconnect : NEOM's vision of a futuristic, liberalized society clashes sharply with Saudi Arabia's deeply conservative cultural norms. The project plans to introduce mixed-gender sports, entertainment events, and other liberal lifestyle elements that are rare in the kingdom. This cultural shift has raised concerns about a potential clash between NEOM's globalised vision and the traditional values of Saudi society. The disconnect between the project's ambitions and the broader cultural context has led to skepticism about whether NEOM can truly integrate into Saudi Arabia's social fabric without causing significant friction.

'Saudi Mega-Skyscraper Turns Deadly': This 105-Mile Structure Threatens to Annihilate Migratory Birds on a Catastrophic Scale
'Saudi Mega-Skyscraper Turns Deadly': This 105-Mile Structure Threatens to Annihilate Migratory Birds on a Catastrophic Scale

Sustainability Times

time10-06-2025

  • Business
  • Sustainability Times

'Saudi Mega-Skyscraper Turns Deadly': This 105-Mile Structure Threatens to Annihilate Migratory Birds on a Catastrophic Scale

IN A NUTSHELL 🏗️ The Line project aims to transform 105 miles of Saudi Arabia's desert into a futuristic cityscape. aims to transform 105 miles of Saudi Arabia's desert into a futuristic cityscape. 🦅 Concerns have arisen over the project's impact on migratory birds due to its location on a major avian route. due to its location on a major avian route. ⚠️ Significant construction delays and environmental challenges threaten the project's success and sustainability goals. and environmental challenges threaten the project's success and sustainability goals. 🌿 The initiative highlights the tension between urban innovation and the preservation of delicate ecosystems. The Line project in Saudi Arabia's desert is a visionary attempt to redefine urban living with a futuristic cityscape. As part of the larger NEOM initiative, it seeks to blend sustainability with innovation, stretching an incredible 105 miles. However, amid the excitement surrounding this audacious endeavor, significant concerns have arisen about its environmental impact. Particularly troubling is the threat to local wildlife, including migratory birds that traverse this region. As the project unfolds, it prompts critical questions about how technological progress can coexist with ecological preservation, challenging us to ponder the delicate balance between urban development and nature. The Scale and Ambition of The Line The Line is an integral component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative initiative aiming to convert a vast desert into an urban marvel. This linear city is designed to stretch 105 miles and soar 1,640 feet into the sky, with plans to accommodate nine million residents. The striking mirrored facade of The Line represents a blend of cutting-edge technology and sustainability aspirations, promising to redefine urban living. However, the project's grand scale has drawn scrutiny from environmentalists concerned about biodiversity threats, particularly to the avian population. Internal assessments reveal significant worries about the project's impact on migratory birds. The towering structure with its reflective surfaces poses a serious risk to avian life. Environmentalists argue that the challenge lies in harmonizing such grand urban visions with the delicate ecosystems they inhabit. The project's progress and ultimate success depend on addressing these environmental concerns while maintaining its ambitious urban innovation goals. 'Wild Spinach Saves the Day': Scientists Discover This Ordinary Plant Could Stop Catastrophic Fungus From Destroying US Farmlands Environmental Implications and Avian Threats Located on a major migratory route, The Line poses a substantial threat to billions of birds. The mirrored skyscraper could become a lethal obstacle for these winged travelers. The developers acknowledge the potential loss of avian life, which has ignited intense debates about balancing urban expansion with wildlife conservation. The table below highlights some of the critical challenges faced by The Line project: 'China Risks $117 Billion Collapse': This Scientist's Rare-Earth-Free Super Magnet Could Wreck an Entire National Industry 🦅 Avian Impact A Threat to Migratory Birds 🏙️ NEOM Project Desert Transformation into a Futuristic City 🌿 Sustainability An Ecological Ambition Under Scrutiny 📉 Delays Cumulative Construction Challenges The plight of these birds underscores broader questions about development in environmentally sensitive areas. How can we ensure our pursuit of innovation does not come at the expense of biodiversity and ecological balance? This dilemma highlights the importance of integrating environmental considerations into urban planning to safeguard the natural world. Construction Hurdles and Project Delays Beyond environmental concerns, The Line project faces significant construction challenges and delays. Initially projected to house nine million residents, current estimates suggest only 300,000 inhabitants by 2030, indicating a stark contrast to the original vision. Construction is primarily focused on excavation, with numerous foundational challenges delaying progress. Longest-Range Drone Ship in History: UK's New 8,500-Mile Vessel Stuns Military Analysts With Unprecedented Unmanned Capabilities Key issues include: Construction setbacks Balancing nature and urbanization Impact on biodiversity Project delays These challenges underscore the complexities of pursuing sustainable construction in fragile environments. The project's ambitious goals necessitate overcoming these obstacles while ensuring ecological integrity. As The Line progresses, it serves as a poignant case study in the ongoing dialogue about sustainable development. Balancing Innovation and Ecological Preservation The Line project exemplifies the tension between urban innovation and ecological preservation. Its ambitions are as vast as the desert it seeks to transform, but the environmental cost cannot be overlooked. Balancing technological and architectural progress with nature's preservation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable future. As we move forward, we must ask ourselves: How can we strike a balance between creating advanced, innovative urban environments and preserving the natural world for future generations? What sacrifices are we willing to make in the pursuit of progress, and how can we ensure that our actions today do not come at the expense of tomorrow's ecosystem? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (24)

6 things to know about the giant port at world's biggest construction site in Saudi Arabia's floating complex
6 things to know about the giant port at world's biggest construction site in Saudi Arabia's floating complex

First Post

time09-06-2025

  • Business
  • First Post

6 things to know about the giant port at world's biggest construction site in Saudi Arabia's floating complex

Saudi Arabia's futuristic floating port at Oxagon is taking shape fast. Strategically located on the Red Sea, the port will be fully automated, renewable-powered and central to global trade. Here are six things to know about the project. read more Saudi Arabia's ambitious Neom project continues to make headlines, this time with visible progress at Oxagon, its futuristic floating industrial complex. Newly released satellite imagery has revealed significant developments at the Port of Neom, located in Oxagon, one of the most striking components of the world's largest construction site. Here are six key things to know about the giant port being developed at the heart of this next-generation megacity: A port at a strategic global trade artery The Port of Neom is rising on the Red Sea, along one of the busiest maritime trade corridors in the world. Its proximity to the Suez Canal—through which nearly 12% of global trade passes—gives it a pivotal advantage. This location positions Oxagon as a crucial new player in connecting Asia, Africa and Europe. Update🚨: Recent images posted by Giles Pendleton (Chief Operating Officer THE LINE at NEOM | Chief Development Officer) of Oxagon, showing immense progress in infrastructure works + Oxagon village is about to have more construction work coming as the site being prepared. — Saud (@Saudfromabove) April 13, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A symbol of Saudi Arabia's economic transition Oxagon is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative aimed at reducing the kingdom's dependence on oil. Along with other components like The Line and Trojena, it reflects Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitions to reposition Saudi Arabia as a global hub of innovation and sustainability. World-class automation arrives In a major milestone, the Port of Neom recently received Saudi Arabia's first fully automated, remote-controlled cranes. This step marks the beginning of a tech-first operational approach, designed to enhance Red Sea logistics and attract global business through efficiency and digital transformation. A hub for green energy and smart industries Oxagon is also the site for Neom's Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC), which is developing what will be the world's largest green hydrogen plant. The $8.4 billion project underscores Oxagon's role as not just a logistics centre but a future global capital for sustainable industry. Designed for people and planet Unlike conventional industrial zones, Oxagon has been envisioned as a mixed-use, compact city that will run entirely on renewable energy. Its planners aim to host around 90,000 residents by 2030. 'Industrial development cannot continue at the expense of people or the environment,' said Oxagon CEO Vishal Wanchoo in May. Strong global interest and leadership focus Neom recently appointed a new CEO tasked with tackling budget overruns and delays across its many sub-projects. Despite these challenges, optimism remains high. Melissa Blake, Port Director at Neom, wrote on LinkedIn: 'Port of Neom is excited to receive the first batch of cranes and other cargo handling equipment as we come another step closer to delivering our vision.' The Saudi government describes Oxagon as 'a place where people, nature and technology come together in harmony,' signalling a break from traditional development models. What's next? The Port of Neom is expected to become the primary gateway for trade in northwestern Saudi Arabia. With a smart logistics hub connecting three continents, the port could redefine how goods flow through the region, offering a glimpse of what global trade might look like in the decades to come.

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