Satellite images reveal a lavish palace complex, likely for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, built within Saudi Arabia’s ambitious $2 trillion Neom project. The complex features private beaches, gardens, and extensive amenities. Neom aims to shift the Saudi economy from fossil fuels to technology and tourism, although it faces investment challenges and concerns over environmental impacts.
Recent satellite imagery acquired by Business Insider reveals the ongoing construction of a luxurious palace, believed to belong to Saudi Arabia’s ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as part of the Neom megacity initiative. This complex, located along the Red Sea coast in the northeast region of the country, boasts private beaches, expansive gardens, a golf course, and ten helicopter landing pads.
The images were captured by Maxar Technologies in January and featured in a Business Insider documentary. Data points to the palace potentially being one of several royal residences planned approximately 105 miles west of Tabuk, which were among the initial contracts awarded for the Neom project. The architectural style is expected to draw inspiration from Moroccan designs, aligning with the lavish elements evident in the satellite imagery.
The Neom project aims to transform the Saudi economy by reducing its dependency on fossil fuels and diversifying into technology, innovation, and tourism. The documentary further showcases the ambitious development of a 110-mile-long vertical city named ‘The Line.’ It also highlights various controversies surrounding the project, especially regarding environmental implications and human rights issues.
Originally slated for completion by 2030, the entire Line city has faced delays, with only a portion, termed the “Hidden Marina,” expected to be operational by that timeframe. Crown Prince Mohammed possesses a multitude of extravagant assets, including a $300 million estate in France and a $400 million superyacht. While significant oil revenues have funded the Neom endeavor, challenges remain in attracting sufficient foreign investment to support its expansive construction timeline.
Despite inquiries made by Business Insider, the Neom project did not issue a response pertaining to the details surrounding the palace complex, marking another layer of intrigue in the project’s development.
The satellite images of the lavish palace within the Neom megacity project highlight the opulence associated with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and illustrate the Saudi government’s ambition to transition towards a diversified economy. While the project has attracted attention and investment, significant challenges remain, including environmental concerns and delays in construction timelines. Overall, Neom represents a bold step towards a futuristic vision for Saudi Arabia.
Original Source: www.businessinsider.com
