Saudi Arabia has launched a crucial review of The Line megaproject, its futuristic urban development in Neom. Consultants are now assessing whether the ambitious vision remains feasible due to soaring expenses and shifting timelines.
This week, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) brought in independent consultants to evaluate The Line megaproject. Rising construction costs and declining oil revenues have raised concerns about the development’s future. Officials want to determine if the original goals are still achievable.
Initially, the Line megaproject promised a 105-mile linear city with twin 500-meter skyscrapers. Planners claimed residents would access all daily needs within a five-minute walk. The city was also designed to house nine million people with zero emissions.
However, recent reports suggest a major scale-back. Instead of nine million, the project may now accommodate fewer than 300,000 residents. Saudi authorities have not confirmed these changes.
Satellite images from April 2025 show extensive excavation work near The Line megaproject site. Around 2,800 workers currently live in nearby temporary housing. Yet, visible progress on the skyscrapers remains limited.
Meanwhile, a British documentary alleged labor abuses involving foreign workers. Some were reportedly treated like “trapped slaves.” Saudi officials strongly denied these claims. They cited strict labor laws and low workplace fatality rates.
The ongoing review will shape the final decision on The Line megaproject. Consultants may recommend design changes or further scaling back. Saudi Arabia still insists the development remains a top priority.
Giles Pendleton, COO of The Line, recently shared progress updates on LinkedIn. He highlighted infrastructure advancements, including new water pipelines and harbor work.
Despite the challenges, Saudi leaders remain committed to their vision. The review will ultimately decide if The Line megaproject meets its 2030 deadline. For now, the world watches as one of history’s most ambitious urban experiments hangs in the balance.
