Neom: The Future Miami, Promises Mohammed bin Salman
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Middle East Eye
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has defended the Neom megaproject, claiming it will "compete with Miami" and prove critics wrong. The $500 billion prospective megacity, which is 33 times the size of New York City, has faced skepticism since its announcement in 2017. The project includes a 170km straight-line city known as "The Line," which is currently under construction. Bin Salman believes Neom will make money, meet the demands of a growing population, and revolutionize city planning. The city will have no cars or roads and aims to be a "piece of art." However, the project has faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses and forced displacement of the Howeitat tribe.