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Tag: Giga-Project

  • Turning Point? Saudi Giga-Project May Be Reassessed

    Turning Point? Saudi Giga-Project May Be Reassessed

    A recent news report suggests Saudi authorities are reevaluating the feasibility of the Line, one of the most ambitious and seemingly impractical architectural projects. While no decisions have been made, the review could impact its bold vision.
    Image Credits: New Atlas

    A recent news report suggests Saudi authorities are reevaluating the feasibility of the Line, one of the most ambitious and seemingly impractical architectural projects. While no decisions have been made, the review could impact its bold vision.

    The Line is central to Saudi Arabia’s shift from oil to tourism and technology. The project envisions a futuristic, mirrored skyscraper city stretching 170 km (105 miles) across the desert.

    A Monumental Undertaking Under Fire

    Rivaling the Great Wall and pyramids in ambition, the project is already underway, with billions spent and massive earthworks completed. From early on, it has drawn criticism over soaring costs and reported human rights violations.

    Image Credits:Once fully complete, the Line will take the form of a mirrored rectangular building stretching 170 km (105 miles) long in the Saudi Arabian desert
    Neom

    With low oil prices straining the budget, Saudi authorities are focusing on financial concerns. After Neom’s new CEO, Aiman Al-Mudaifer, took over, the government hired consultants to review the Line’s feasibility, costs, and potential changes.

    Uncertain Future

    The report notes that the Saudi government may ultimately opt to keep the project unchanged. Possible cost cuts include reducing the 500 m height, shortening the 2.5 km length, or altering the mirrored façade, though no decision is final yet.

    The Line is one of several bold Saudi projects, including the Mukaab, JEC Tower, and tourism-focused Treyam.

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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  • Saudi Arabia Launches New Island Giga-Project

    Saudi Arabia Launches New Island Giga-Project

    Laheq is a luxurious island resort that will be centered around a large ring-shaped structure hosting hotels and homes
    Red Sea Global

    Saudi Arabia has introduced another ambitious addition to its vast Red Sea development—a luxury destination called Laheq. Part of the country’s broader push to shift from an oil-dependent economy to a global tourism hotspot, Laheq will feature a striking ring-shaped centerpiece built on a lush island in the Red Sea.

    Designed as a “Forever Garden” by Foster + Partners

    The concept, developed by renowned British architecture firm Foster + Partners—also rumored to be behind the proposed mile-high tower in Saudi Arabia—envisions Laheq as a “Forever Garden,” emphasizing its vibrant, green environment. Set on a namesake island in a cluster of 90 islands off the western coast, Laheq covers 400 hectares (around 988 acres).

    Laheq is located near what Saudi authorities call the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef and will offer diving and other water-based activities
    Red Sea Global

    At the heart of the project is “The Ring,” an 800-meter-wide (approximately 2,600 feet) circular structure rising from the sea, designed to host high-end residences and hotels.Buyers will purchase some units as private homes, while developers will offer others as short-term luxury rentals.

    The rest of the island will feature additional upscale housing—some constructed using sustainable timber—alongside a bustling market, shops, entertainment zones, a golf course, and a 115-slip marina. Wellness facilities and aquatic activities, like diving, are also a major draw. Visitors will have access to one of the planet’s largest coral reefs and over 2,000 fish species unique to the region.

    Green Goals: Completion by 2028 and 100% Renewable Energy

    Scheduled for completion by 2028, Laheq joins Desert Rock and other developments under the Red Sea giga-project umbrella. The developer, Red Sea Global, has pledged to power the entire project with 100% renewable energy by 2030, while also committing to marine ecosystem conservation and coastal restoration efforts.

    Beyond Laheq, Saudi Arabia’s construction boom continues with major undertakings such as Neom’s “The Line”, Qiddiya, the Mukaab, JEC Tower, and more—each part of a broader strategy to reshape the kingdom’s future.

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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