What is NEOM?

NEOM is a futuristic city offering science-bending technology. The project will be along the coast of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk province. The sprawling 26,500 square km site will be a self-sufficient residential and tourist haven driven entirely by renewable energy. It is a super-ambitious $500 billion smart city project that will attract five million visitors by 2030. NEOM will have three districts stretching across mountains, deserts, and the sea. The plans for NEOM include flying drone taxis and a fantasy amusement park inspired by Jurassic Park. The project highlights a giant artificial moon that will light up the night skies.

NEOM regions

NEOM comprises three regions. The Line is a 170 km long sustainable city capable of housing a million residents. The Oxagon will be the world’s largest floating industrial complex. The Trojena is a fantasy in the pristine ranges of the Sarawat Mountains. It will be the ultimate example of engineering innovation and architectural creativity.

1. Oxagon

Oxagon is designed to be the economic and industrial zone in NEOM and will be the largest floating structure in the world. The core development area will be 48 square kilometers and accessible to 40 percent of the world through a four-hour flight. Designed as the economic blueprint for the work and living of the future, Oxagon will be the epitome of sustainability. The city will redefine the world’s approach to future industrial development while remaining focused on protecting the environment and creating jobs.

2. The Line

The Line is a 170 km-long linear modern city touted as the ultimate model of urban living. It has multiple hyper-connected communities. All amenities are available within walkable and seamlessly integrated stunning landscapes and public parks. The Line will be a car-free city. The physical and digital infrastructure will be beneath the ground and offer all the essential utilities. Everything in the city will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy. The Line will be innovatively hyper-connected by an intelligent digital framework using artificial intelligence and robotics. NEOM data will be analyzed to create a predictive system. It will help in shaping ever-improving service solutions for residents and businesses.

3. Trojena

Trojena is planned to be the beyond fantasy iconic, world-class destination like no other on this planet. It blends natural and developed landscapes to create visually dramatic locations. Trojena will have six districts designed to deliver customized, human-centric experiences for residents and visitors alike. The city is located 50 km from the Gulf of the Aqaba coast and has elevations ranging from 1500 m to 2600 m. Other highlights include a ski slope, water sports, mountain biking, and advanced wellness facilities. An interactive nature reserve is also part of the Trojena infrastructure. Everything will be housed in an area encompassing 60 square kilometers.

Tourist attractions in NEOM

Authorities anticipate NEOM to be the world’s most unique and path-breaking tourism project. Its USP comes from the fact that it is built on the most ancient land and shaped by the world’s leading design experts. NEOM will stand apart for its immersive digital experiences and seamless tourist spots.

Some of the key highlights of this spectacularly designed and challenging tourism platform are:

• Innovative design-led form
• Heritage and culture of unmatched authenticity
• Nature experiences in its truest form
• Travel designs that encompass the latest technologies
• Authentic Arabian service culture
• Out-of-the-world luxury experiences
• Regenerative travel solution

The top tourist attractions in NEOM are:

1. Wadi Tayyb – ESM

Wadi Tayyb-Esm is an ancient canyon that gets water from a spring. It is one of the world’s most beautiful canyons and creates stunning visuals as the water weaves through the 400m tall basalt, sandstone, and granite towers. Finally the water flows into the Gulf of Aqaba. The Wadi offers the perfect opportunity for adventure lovers to indulge in hiking, snorkeling, and swimming. Tourists can also go for spotting wildlife.

2. Midian Tombs

The Midian Tombs are stated to be the last remnants of the prehistoric Midian lands. They are located on the northwest side of the Arabian Peninsula, on the east shore of the Gulf of Aqaba. The place has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Midian is said to be the place where Prophet Moses stayed for ten years in exile. The tombs are carved into the mountains encircling Al-Bad. They are mentioned in the Quran and the Bible. Tourists can enjoy the unique sight of an oasis in a parched area when they visit Midian. Water from the shallow wells in this region help cultivate mango orchards and other fruits offering serene views.

3. Hisma Desert

The Hisma desert located in Tabuk is famous for its dreamlike scenery and rich traditional heritage. The mountains here extend all the way to the Wadi Rum in Jordan. The Hisma desert was used as a reliable pathway by pilgrims and merchants. Some incredible rock formations make up for the informational tourist destination. The landscape has giant trees to add to the place’s splendor. The vessel-shaped Shaddad Mountain is famous for its inscriptions in Thamudic, Nabataean, Sheba, and Arabic.

4. Jebel al Lawz

Jabel al Lawz, or the Mountain of almonds, is located in northwest Saudi Arabia and rises 2549 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest peaks in the Kingdom. The height and location of the mountain, which lies uniquely between the desert and the Gulf of Aqaba, can drive the temperature of the area below zero. It is also the only place in the country which gets snowfall nearly every year. Jebel al Lawz is famous for its archeological sites, including an ancient quarry and very old rock art. Visitors can also view some rock paintings and carvings.

5. Gayal Beach

Gayal Beach is one of the most stunning coastlines along the Red Sea. The beach is famous for its kaleidoscopic coral reefs and a variety of marine life. Tourists can enjoy the sight of a majestic sunset as the sun goes down the Tiran Island in this secluded cove. Gayal Beach presents a genuinely unique picture-perfect scenario with its impressive golden sands framed by the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. The swath of glittering palm trees completes the breathtaking picture. Tourists can also enjoy swimming and snorkeling on Gayal Beach or relax and soak in the abundance of natural beauty.

6. Catalina Seaplane

The military seaplane is the remnants of the ruins left behind after an American family landed the plane on Arabian Beach. The firing by the locals, who mistook the aircraft for some hostile elements, rendered it unfit for flying, causing its abandonment. The Catalina Seaplane’s enormous wreckage has been lying on the windy beach for over half a decade and is a giant magnet for tourists. At times, the tide can be really high and reach the plane. Visitors can reach out to this page of history and click pictures to make their visit memorable.

Project objectives

The aim of NEOM is to become the most competitive free zone on Earth. NEOM will operate independently of Saudi Arabia’s laws and regulations. It is a model city with its regulations and authority. The $500 million megacity is a part of the Kingdom’s plan to move away from oil as its primary driver of the country’s economy. The land of the future will have sustainability as its core idea. NEOM will offer a range of unique development opportunities for investors and business owners, such as:

• Direct access to the Saudi markets
• Comprehensive supply systems powered by innovative techniques
• Favorable industry-specific regulatory settings
• An idyllic environment designed to deliver a rich quality of life
• Futuristic urban planning

The key pillars of this futuristic project include prioritizing human lives and their comforts, enhancing tourism to manifold and introducing the next generation of living and transport systems powered by AI. Digitalization and sustainability will be the hallmark of the NEOM project.

NEOM will be the most exciting and vibrant global hub epitomizing the future of human civilization. The goal is to offer its inhabitants everything they need to lead an idyllic lifestyle powered by extraordinary economic prospects. NEOM seeks to push the boundaries of innovation and tech-powered creativity and tourism in Saudi Arabia like never before.

Suggested Read: Saudi Arabia Tourism 2022: Top Cities, Itinerary, Do’s and Don’ts

NEOM FAQs

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9 Beautiful places to visit in Saudi Arabia

1. Empty Quarters, Near Riyadh

The Empty Quarters or the Rubʿ al Khali, is the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world, covering 650,000 square meters with its fringes spilling into Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen. The desert is among the aridest places on Earth. It receives less than 3 cm of rainfall annually in some parts and zeroes in other areas. The dunes have a reddish-orange hue making them highly photographic. The Empty Quarter is made up of five distinct types of dunes, offering an excellent opportunity to take part in the desert adventure.

Top attractions/activities: Desert camping is the top attraction where one can camp among the dunes and enjoy a fantastic view of the clear skies at night. The Empty Quarter is also the perfect place to test driving skills and learn how to sandboard and sand ski.

Best time to visit: The desert remains extremely hot during the summers. Hence, the best time to visit the Empty Quarter is November to February. The weather is the coolest during this time, with a pleasant breeze flowing across the vast expanse.

Suggested Read: Saudi Arabian Deserts: For An Unusual Adventure In The Arid Dunes

2. Al Souda, Abha

The Al Soudah is among the top incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia. It is a breathtaking mountain area situated at an elevation of 3,000 meters in the Asir region. The Al Soudah mesmerizes with its majestic mountain draped in juniper trees. The place’s natural beauty is overwhelming and nothing short of a paradise for those who love nature. The soothing weather is a welcome change from the arid climate of other parts of the country.

Top attractions/activities: Tourists can visit the Rijal Almaa village, which has served as a resting place for pilgrims traveling to Makkah and Madinah. The village also has many ancient forts and museums. The Asir National Park is another key attraction. It’s a huge park that stretches all the way to the Red Sea coast. One can indulge in adventure-filled activities such as riding a cable car from steep mountain slopes. There are several hiking trails that can be explored.

How to reach: One can conveniently reach Al Soudah from Abha International Airport, located less than 50 km.

Best time to visit: From November to February, the winter months are the best months to visit Al Soudah in terms of climatic convenience and see the stunning sights of the snow-capped mountain. Many tourists visit the mountain in August to enjoy the Flowerman Festival celebrations.

3. Wadi Al Disah, Tabuk

Wadi Al Disah is a beautiful mountainous valley in the northwestern area of Saudi Arabia of Tabuk province. It translates as ‘The valley of palm trees,’ and it’s aptly named because the valley floor presents a delightful piece of nature. The massive sandstone cliffs and pillars further add to the beauty of the place. Tourists come here to explore and experience this marvel of nature. Wadi Al Disah is characterized by gigantic mountain forms, rocky columns, and freshwater springs.

Top attractions/activities: Wadi Al Disah is the perfect place in Saudi Arabia to get away from the crowd and have a nice time relaxing in the calm and soothing nature. One can indulge in hiking or join the locals in picnicking at the valley entrance while enjoying the locally flavored tea.

How to reach: Wadi Al Disah (main entrance) is about 260 km from the city of Tabuk. A drive from Tabuk to Wadi Al Disah can take around two hours. Tabuk is accessible from anywhere in Saudi Arabia, but it’s better to take a flight to Tabuk.

Best time to visit: Winter is the best time to visit Wadi Al Disah, as the climate is cool. Further, the area has a majestic charm to its beautiful environment in winter.

4. Wadi Lajab, Jizan

Wadi Lajab is a famous valley in Jizan, Saudi Arabia. Located between two high mountains, it is a canyon that is 30 km wide and 5 km long. Wadi Lajab is called ‘Heaven in the Desert’ because of the fantastic beauty of the place. The sides are steep and covered in thick moss, making it appear like an incredible hanging garden. The valley has a constant supply of fresh water.

Top attractions/activities: Wadi Lajab is one of the top places for hiking and trekking. It is also a site approved for rock climbing by the Jizan Tourism Development Council.

How to reach: Wadi Lajab is located some 125 km from Jizan. It takes around two hours to reach Wadi Lajab from Jizan by road. To get to the valley, one must hire a 4X4 vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and the rough trails of the place.

Best time to visit: From November to March, the winter months are the best time to visit the Wadi Lajab. The weather remains pleasant, making it convenient for one to explore the region without suffering the summer heat and associated inconveniences.

5. Wadi Hanifa, Riyadh

Wadi Hanifa is a classic example of how human efforts can dramatically transform the surroundings. Hanifa Valley, a waste disposal site, is now a picture of natural abundance as the beautiful valley stretches across 120 km from northwest to southwest of the Saudi capital. It is now the largest natural reserve in Saudi Arabia. Migratory birds visit this wetland during winter. It is also one of the most popular recreational spots in the country. People love to camp in Wadi Hanifa among the mountains and the lakes.

Top attractions/activities: Hanifa Valley is a global destination for bikers and cyclists. Amateur botanists can have a wonderful time exploring the various trees, shrubs, and flowers that abound the place.

How to reach: Tourists can reach Hanifa from Riyadh, as it is located in the Najd region of Riyadh Province. It runs for around 120 km from northwest to southeast in Najd.

Best time to visit: One can visit Hanifa Valley at any time of the year, but the winter season is the best time to explore the region.

6. Jabal Abayad, Madinah

Jabal Abayad is the tallest volcano in Saudi Arabia. It is also famous as the White Mountain due to the presence of a unique white ash coating. Jabal Abayad is located in Harrat Khyber in the Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. It stands tall at 2093 meters. A satellite image of Harrat Khyber shows marked similarity to the Moon’s cratered surface because of the Jabal Abayad volcanic debris.

Top attractions/activities: Visitors can witness the stunning evidence of the assault caused by the molten fury in the two large lava flows. Jabal Abayad is located within a short driving distance from Madinah. The most recent recorded eruption is about 80 miles north of Harrat Khaybar. To the East of Madinah, one will find the most extensive lava field in the country. It stretches 180 km in the south towards the Jeddah suburbs.

How to Reach: Jabal Abayad is easily accessible from Jeddah or Madinah. One can take a flight to Tabuk and reach Jabal Abayad by road.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year is good to visit Jabal Abayad, but winters are the best as the climate is conducive for traveling.

7. Al Ahsa oasis, Al Ahsa

The Al Ahsa Oasis is one of the most incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia and is known for its shady palms and clear springs. The oasis offers a picturesque view of the area’s amazing greenery combined with the sand-toned hamlets. Al Ahsa is also famous for its historical sites, artesian springs, canals, and wells. It is a historic port city famous for its home-grown varieties of dates and the red-grained Hesawi rice.

Top attractions/activities: Tourists can also explore the rock-hewn caves or climb the famous Al Qarah Mountain. The more adventurous can join the locals in drifting down the dunes in a hired SUV. Evening times are best for visiting the busy Souq Al Qaisariy and shopping with street hawkers for local products.

How to reach: The Al Ahsa Oasis is located 60 km from the Persian Gulf coast. One can travel to the oasis from Al Ahsa International Airport. Train services from Riyadh and Dammam are also available.

Best time to visit: December to February are the best months to visit the Al Ahsa oasis. The weather is cool and pleasant during this time of the year.

8. Farasan Islands, Jizan

The Farasan Islands, located in the Red Sea, are famous for their marine biodiversity. The Farasan Island Marine Sanctuary has been developed to protect this valuable biodiversity. This beautiful tourist location comprises around 80 islands, but one can visit only three of them. The islands, which are now a protected area, are rich in pristine coral reefs and are home to many species of rare birds. The islands serve the needs of tourists through a string of luxury hotels and on-site restaurants.

Top attractions/activities: Some of the top attractions of the Farasan Islands include the Najdi Palace and Century Beach. The palace is known for its unique architecture from the ancient era; whereas, The beach has blue, clear water and is an unspoiled area with many marine plants. One can go swimming or soak in the sun on the beach benches. The Luqman Castle is a major tourist attraction and offers a great view of the places around. The Ghadeer Bay has a rich and diverse marine biology environment.

How to reach: The Farasan Islands are located some 50 km from Jizan. There are ferries available for transportation between the city and the islands. The ferries can accommodate hundreds of people as well as automobiles. There are two trips conducted between Jizan and Farasan daily.

Best time to visit: The winter months are best to visit the Farasan Islands, from November to February. Winter temperatures are cool and pleasant, making it comfortable for tourists to explore the various places on the islands.

9. NEOM, Tabuk

NEOM is a New Enterprise Operating Model from Saudi Arabia, which indicates a new future. It is a futuristic city that will incorporate the nation’s emerging technologies and sustainability goals. NEOM will be established in an area encompassing 26,500 square kilometers and will run along the Red Sea coast for 460 km in the Tabuk province. Among other things, NEOM will also be a self-sufficient residential place that will run entirely on renewable energy.

Top attractions/activities: NEOM will house a million residents and will also have the largest floating industrial complex in the world, named Oxagon. Trojena, the symbol of engineering innovation and architectural marvel, is where all the adventure activities will take place. It will have a ski slope, water sports, and mountain biking. Another major attraction is NEOM Lake, an artificial water body created against a beautiful mountain backdrop.

How to reach: Tourists can visit NEOM from Tabuk, which is the nearest airport. It’s a three-hour drive to NEOM from Tabuk. It will take around six hours from the Sharm el-Sheikh airport and 10 hours from the Hurghada airport.

Best time to visit: As in other places in Saudi Arabia, the winter season is the best time to visit NEOM and explore the various features and facilities.

Saudi Arabia has come a long way from allowing only business visitors and religious tourists. The Kingdom has transformed dramatically over the past few years and is now one of the world’s most desirable and exciting tourist destinations. Most of the incredible places to visit in Saudi Arabia are blessed with an abundance of nature, exotic landscapes, historical places, and welcoming people.

Suggested Read: Mountains In Saudi Arabia Are Home To Historical Peaks And Charming Vistas

Incredible Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia FAQs

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NEOM, which will be thirty-three times the size of New York City, is marketed as “The Place of the Future”. It is a part of Saudi Arabia’s effort to diversify its finances away from fossil fuels. According to the project’s CEO, Nadhmi Al-Nasr, Saudi Arabia’s $500 billion futuristic metropolis NEOM will be ready to welcome visitors and investors by 2024.

In an interview with Asharq, Al-Nasr noted, “We spent two years developing the vision into a plan since this strategy affects all areas of NEOM” (via Arab News).

“Last year, we completed with strategies, then went on to preparation and design, and now we’re at the implementation phase” Al-Nasr explained.

Giga projects in Saudi Arabia

In its quest for contractors and investors, NEOM, which borders the Red Sea off the coast of Aqaba, recently welcomed approximately 150 engineering and building businesses. Renewable energy will be used to power the destination. At Shushah Island, NEOM has teamed up with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology to develop the world’s most extensive coral garden.

“At NEOM, one of our aims is to rethink conservation to benefit the natural environment and future generations” Al-Nasr added. “One of the ways we’re accomplishing it is through our coral reef relationship with KAUST”.

NEOM officials stated that the first hotel will open by the end of 2022, with 15 hotels set to open between 2023 and 2025.

According to the project’s head of tourism, Saudi Arabia’s $500 billion metropolises of the future, NEOM, will receive millions of tourists by 2030. Andrew McEvoy told The National that he expects two million “NEOMians” to call the city home within the next decade. He further stated that instead of Saudis, the people would be referred to as “NEOMians”. According to him, around 2,000 NEOMians and 10,000 construction workers already live there.

Mr. McEvoy spoke on the sideline of the Arabian Travel Market, which is presently taking place at Dubai’s World Trade Centre. “You will see a lot of movement starting in 2024 when our first tourism assets open” Mr. McEvoy added. “Work has already begun, and tourism initiatives will be implemented shortly”. The Trojena highland attraction will be one of the many tourist attractions in NEOM.

Attractions at NEOM

It will contain a ski slope, mountain biking, and watersports amenities in 2026. Interactive nature reserves will also be present. NEom is being built as a smart city that will run on renewable energy. According to The Wall Street Journal, it has drawn international attention due to previously published ideas that include flying taxis, classrooms managed by holographic professors, and an artificial moon. Mr. McEvoy stated that NEOM would be considered a distinct state from the rest of Saudi Arabia, with its own set of regulations. According to him, this will make it more appealing to those thinking to migrate there as well as to visitors.

He declined to rule out selling alcohol to lure individuals from other nations to come to the country for jobs or visits. He said, “Alcohol is not off the menu”. Selling alcohol would be Permitted. “We need to compete, and to do so, we need to match what other places have to offer”.

He also stated that the project will be car-free by 2030. Mr. McEvoy told, “The city is being developed to be fully car-free, but I believe there will be a short adjustment time”. “Many future mobility choices are already available, such as electric hybrids, and we’re experimenting with flying taxis”. “This is about giving tomorrow’s tourism”.

The project’s sustainability is also a significant priority. Mr. McEvoy explained that this is being pushed by young people who are more involved in combating climate change than earlier generations.

“The most strong reason behind this is many young Saudis who enthusiastically embrace a brighter beginning and regard NEOM as a light of that future”, says the group chevalier.

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