The Saudi Arabian urban initiative THE LINE received worldwide interest after its 2021 debut because it presents a 170-kilometer urban development that rises 500 meters above the Tabuk desert. The NEOM megaproject’s THE LINE project presents a city design that eliminates conventional streets and cars and spreads across 500 meters in height with all amenities reachable in less than five minutes by foot.
The project advances forward despite facing financial and logistical challenges. The installation of 4,500 foundational piles reached completion by late 2024, while builders started constructing modular 800-meter segments. The authorities maintained their commitment to finish the 5-kilometer section by 2030 as they continued with their extended construction plan until 2045.
Key attractions are taking shape. The Hidden Marina will rise 500 meters above the port floor while extending across 350,000 square meters to accommodate 200,000 residents who will live among residential, retail, hospitality, and educational facilities. The NEOM Stadium will serve as the 2034 FIFA World Cup venue while positioned at 350 meters above ground level with complete reliance on renewable power sources. THE LINE will establish its sports-oriented neighborhood after the event through this development.
The development of THE LINE relies on global design and engineering expertise from Gensler and Delugan Meissl Associated Architects and Mott MacDonald to merge sustainability principles with urban design and infrastructure systems.
The Saudi authorities deny any changes to their original plans despite rumors about phase reductions. The essential vertical construction phase of this initiative will start in late 2025 to advance the development of this future-oriented city that combines environmental integration with efficiency and a car-free environment.
