In various parts of the world, urban mega -projects promise to turn deserts into intelligent cities, regions isolated into innovation centers and futuristic palaces into national symbols. Behind these initiatives are economic ambitions, strategic views and astronomical budgets, and Saudi Arabia is at the front line of this global race, and new images of a palace in the desert are now emerging.
New satellite images revealed the construction of a vast palace complex in the middle of the Saudi Arabia desert.
At first glance, it could seem like a digital montage or part of a movie scenario.
But it is real, and is being erected as part of the Neom Megaproject, valued at $ 500 billion, which aims to redesign the economic and urban future of the Saudi Kingdom.
A monumental palace by the Red Sea
According to the magazine Newsweekwhich released the images captured between 2019 and 2024, the site went from a desert track with only a small pier to a zone with a large palace, heliports, extensive gardens, artificial lagoons, a golf course and a set of villas.
The coastal line itself was redesigned, in a deep transformation that gives physical expression to the 2030 vision of the heir prince Mohammed bin Salman.
A symbol of power in the heart of the Neom Project
The complex emerges as one of the most emblematic elements of the Neom Project, the Saudi government’s big bet to diversify the economy and reduce oil dependence.
This view includes futuristic infrastructures, such as the linear city The Line, and aims to attract foreign investment in the technology, tourism and innovation sectors.
Despite the attempted contact of the those responsible for the Neom project did not comment on the images.
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High -risk investment in times of uncertainty
The construction of the palace in the desert coincides with a delicate phase for the economy of Saudi Arabia. The price of oil has come down, from over 80 dollars per barrel earlier this year to about 60 today, below the country’s budgetary equilibrium point.
The situation is leading many companies to cut costs, even with the Neom project to continue to consume large funds.
The Line: Promise or Mirage?
Neom includes the linear city The Line170 kilometers long and moved by artificial intelligence. However, as the same source writes, the construction has faced delays and financial challenges.
Aerial images released in April 2025 by the director of operations Giles Pendleton show the structure to emerge from the desert, signaling that, despite the difficulties, the work continues.
Controversy and local resistance
The project has not been immune to criticism. According to NewsweekHuman Rights Organizations warn of alleged forced expulsions of the Huwaitat tribe, traditionally resident in the now occupied region. There are also environmental concerns about the impacts of construction in a sensitive coastal zone.
A Global Impact Bet
With the Neom project, Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a leader in a new economic era. However, as the same publication refers, the strong oscillation of energy markets and the growing geopolitical instability continues to cast doubts about the sustainability of the plan.
THE FUTURE OF VISION 2030
It remains to be seen if heir prince Mohammed bin Salman will be able to make his ambitious plan.
The palace in the seaside desert may become a symbol of the success of the transformation, or just another monument to the promises of a future that will be left.
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