The LINE: A Futuristic City Carving Through the Saudi Arabian Landscape
Neom, a revolutionary project in Saudi Arabia, envisions a future where nature and cutting-edge urban design coexist in harmony. Imagine THE LINE, a cognitive city stretching 170 kilometers across the breathtaking landscape, from the majestic mountains of Neom to the inspiring desert valleys and the turquoise waters of the Red Sea. This mirrored architectural marvel, towering 500 meters above sea level yet maintaining a footprint of only 200 meters wide, redefines the concept of urban development, offering a glimpse into what cities of the future might hold.
A Car-Free, High-Tech Oasis
Imagine a mirrored ribbon stretching across mountains and deserts, its sleek facade reflecting the ever-changing colors of the Arabian sky. The LINE abandons the traditional sprawling cityscape, opting for a vertically layered design. Residents will dwell in modular, climate-controlled living spaces stacked within the mirrored structure. High-speed rail will be the primary mode of transportation, whisking residents between home, work, and recreation within a five-minute timeframe.
Sustainability at its Core
The LINE aspires to be a beacon of sustainable living. Cars, a major source of urban pollution, are entirely banned. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power will fuel the city, minimizing its carbon footprint. The design prioritizes preserving a staggering 95% of the surrounding natural environment, showcasing a harmonious integration between city and nature.
Living in a High-Tech Paradise
Life within The LINE promises to be a futuristic experience. Residents can expect advanced climate control systems ensuring year-round comfort, regardless of the harsh desert climate. Some proposals even hint at an artificial moon illuminating the night sky, further blurring the lines between reality and a science fiction dreamscape.
Building a Dream, Facing Reality
Construction on The LINE has begun, with initial excavation works underway. However, the project’s sheer scale raises questions about feasibility and cost. Estimates suggest a price tag in the hundreds of billions of dollars, potentially reaching $1 trillion USD as part of the overall Neom project (around $500 billion USD). This makes The LINE one of the most expensive construction projects ever conceived.
A City of Immense Volume
The mind-boggling scale of The Line is a key aspect of the project. Here are some key volume figures:
- Length: 170 kilometers (105 miles) – This immense length makes The Line truly a linear city.
- Capacity: Designed to house a population of 9 million people. This is a significant volume compared to most existing cities.
Uncertainty and the Future
While official figures haven’t been released, the budget estimates highlight the immense financial resources required for The Line. The project is still in its early stages, and final costs often change during construction due to unforeseen challenges or adjustments to the design.