Neom, the futuristic megacity planned for Saudi Arabia, is facing a down-to-earth challenge. While planners grapple with skyrocketing costs for the first phase exceeding $100 billion, a new concern has emerged: attracting residents to live in the lower levels of The Line, a centerpiece of the project.
The Line envisions a 100-mile long, 1,640-foot high mirrored skyscraper complex. While the concept boasts sustainability and technological marvels, The Wall Street Journal reports that planners are worried about the appeal of living at the bottom. With limited natural light reaching lower levels, some fear potential residents might find these areas undesirable.
Neom’s website touts a car-free, green city powered entirely by renewable energy. Critics have questioned the design’s practicality and feasibility from the outset. This recent worry regarding resident appeal adds another layer of complexity to the already ambitious project.
Neom’s success hinges on attracting top talent and innovators. Will they be enticed by the promise of a high-tech, futuristic city, or will the lack of sunlight and potential feelings of claustrophobia in lower levels be a turn-off?
