The NEOM initiative, central to Vision 2030 spearheaded by Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, showcases Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to transform itself by founding a city that champions innovation. This bold project is not merely about shifting the kingdom’s economic reliance away from oil ; it’s about constructing a future-focused habitat that promises an unrivaled quality of life.
Attracting the gaze of international investors, NEOM stands out as a beacon of sustainability with a promising future ahead. As this city-in-progress rises from the sands, it is quickly being recognized as a fertile investment landscape. With its development still unfolding, NEOM offers exceptional opportunities for individuals worldwide looking to relocate to what is anticipated to become a first economic and cultural hub on the international stage.
NEOM, the visionary project of Saudi Arabia, is paving the way for a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and prosperity as part of the Vision 2030 initiative. It aims to achieve this by creating four distinctive regions – Trojena, Sindalah, The Line, and Oxagon – each carefully crafted to cater to diverse desires and needs. In this overview, we’ll explore these regions and their significance in shaping NEOM’s vision for the future.
At the forefront of NEOM’s transformation is The Line, a groundbreaking concept in urban living. With its car-free design, sustainable infrastructure, and emphasis on connectivity, The Line sets a new standard for modern cities. This innovative region prioritizes the well-being and convenience of its residents, offering a dynamic environment where people can live, work, and thrive in harmony with nature.
Serving as a focal point of innovation and technology within NEOM, Trojena is envisioned as a center for research, development, and cutting-edge industries. With its state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative ecosystem, Trojena aims to drive forward advancements in various fields, making it a key contributor to NEOM’s position as a global leader in innovation.
Situated along the picturesque shores of the Red Sea, Sindalah offers a perfect blend of luxury, leisure, and natural beauty. This coastal region is designed to be a premier destination for tourism and relaxation, featuring luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and vibrant entertainment options. Sindalah promises residents and visitors alike an unparalleled experience of serenity and indulgence.
As a hub of commerce, culture, and creativity, Oxagon plays a vital role in NEOM’s economic and cultural landscape. This inland region is home to bustling markets, cultural institutions, and vibrant communities, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. With its diverse opportunities and dynamic atmosphere, Oxagon embodies NEOM’s vision of progress and prosperity for all.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has launched a program to ensure Premium Residency, also known as the “Saudi Green Card”.
This card aims to enhance the competitiveness of the Kingdom’s economy, encourage entrepreneurs, and attract investors wishing to conduct their commercial and professional activities legally in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Premium Residency program offers seven options tailored to meet various residency needs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These options comprise :
Experience Saudi Arabia with a residency lasting from one to five years, suitable for short-term endeavors or exploration.
Secure permanent residency in Saudi Arabia with a one-time fee, ideal for those seeking long-term settlement without renewal hassles.
Obtain premium residency by owning or holding rights to residential properties in Saudi Arabia, providing a pathway for property investors.
Invest in Saudi Arabia’s thriving economy and gain permanent residency simultaneously, offering a dual advantage for investors.
Entrepreneurs and startup owners can qualify for premium residency, fostering innovation and business growth in the country.
Exceptional professionals in various fields can obtain residency, contributing their expertise to Saudi Arabia’s advancement.
Saudi Arabia welcomes individuals with remarkable skills and achievements in sports, culture, and arts, providing them with a pathway to residency and recognition.
Living in NEOM, the futuristic city rising from the sands of Saudi Arabia, promises a lifestyle unlike any other. With its innovative approach to urban living and dedication to sustainability, NEOM aims to set a new standard for modern living.
NEOM has an arid and hot desert climate, with summer temperatures often soaring above 40°C. From June to October, temperatures can reach their peak, creating sweltering conditions.
Conversely, winter brings cooler weather, with average temperatures ranging from around 25°C during the day to approximately 15°C at night. Despite these extremes, its strategic location promises both sunny beaches and snow-capped mountains.
Currently in Saudi Arabia, individuals are not required to pay any income tax, but there is a 15% value-added tax (VAT) imposed on goods and services.
While imported goods may be costly, the price of locally produced items is quite affordable when compared to those in Western countries.
It should be noted that the cost of living in NEOM also depends on each individual’s lifestyle and the region they choose to reside in.
Certainly, the city is still under construction, and having visibility on the cost of living is not feasible at the moment. However, according to specialists, “Living in NEOM” will be accessible to all social categories. NEOM will be the future Dubai but with more innovative and sustainable features.
It’s important to highlight that NEOM is poised to offer its residents top-notch services and products, ensuring an exciting and high-quality living experience.
According to the needs and preferences of individuals, well-equipped accommodations will be provided to NEOM residents (villas, studios, apartments, etc.).
Furthermore, NEOM will feature high-end housing options with a wide range of choices (equipment type, size, nature of accommodation, etc.). These accommodations will allow residents to engage in various activities such as swimming, recreation, or physical exercise.
Moreover, they will be equipped with dining and entertainment facilities, providing families with the chance to relax and have fun.
A diverse range of professions across various domains will be in demand to work in NEOM and meet the need for new hires.
To this end, NEOM will offer competitive salaries along with comprehensive social benefits, bonuses, and compensation packages. These incentives aim to attract top talent and foster employee retention within the organization.
In addition to offering competitive salaries, work schedules will feature flexibility, enabling employees to balance their time between work and family commitments while maintaining productivity.
During the city’s construction, NEOM’s flagship university, “NEOM U” will be launched. This area of NEOM will encompass four interconnected pillars: NEOM U, The Education Foundation, Research and Innovation, and The Talent Academy; and schools offering education from early childhood through 12th grade.
This sector will offer access to a top-tier education, research, and innovation environment throughout an individual’s lifelong learning journey. NEOM’s Talent Academy will support continuous professional development by providing opportunities for growth and learning throughout one’s career, designed in collaboration with NEOM’s range of sectors.
One of NEOM‘s priorities is to preserve the health of its inhabitants and ensure their well-being, hence the use of innovative and creative solutions allowing residents to live in harmony with nature.
NEOM will be a sustainable city relying 100% on renewable energy as its energy source. 95% of the land will be dedicated to nature, making this city “environmentally friendly”.
Regarding healthcare, NEOM will strive to establish an integrated ecosystem focusing on health, well-being, and biotechnology, going beyond traditional healthcare boundaries.
The Saudi city will also ensure a unique system of direct care entirely centered on the individual, based on innovative technologies, research, and education to provide patients with the most advanced treatment practices and comprehensive care worldwide.
While 95% of NEOM’s area will indeed be dedicated to nature, it’s worth noting that access to all facilities, including shopping destinations, will be within a five-minute walk. Additionally, a high-speed train will traverse the entire route in just 20 minutes.
It is true that alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia, but the goal to transform the kingdom into a tourist destination will lead to the establishment of alcohol stores.
NEOM will serve alcohol at one of its hotel complexes on the Sindalah island in the Red Sea (as reported by the Wall Street Journal WSJ). It plans to offer a wine bar, a separate cocktail bar, as well as a champagne and dessert bar.
A wine shop will also be available within the complex, providing visitors with access to a variety of wines.
Besides the economic revolution, Saudi Arabia has succeeded in other fields that might interest people, including investors and NEOM residents. These areas include:
Football holds a special place in the hearts of Saudis, leading to the sports revolution championed by Prince Mohammed ben Salman.
To develop an economy centered around entertainment and leisure, it’s essential to make significant investments in sports.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia hasn’t hesitated to invest in this regard, particularly in football. The country has sought the services of top international players in history to join Saudi clubs, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Neymar, and more.
The country’s growing sporting prominence has been recognized with the awarding of the organization of the 2034 World Cup. Saudi Arabia will host this prestigious sporting event, bringing together the best football teams from around the world.
Saudi Arabia has developed its artistic industry by hosting various events that appeal to both locals and tourists from across the globe. These events have contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of the country’s artistic scene.
International music stars from various nationalities have been part of the various concerts organized by the country, including Tiesto, Marshmello, Post Malone, Bruno Mars, and David Guetta, who have all performed at the largest music festival in the Middle East.
The various challenges expatriates face in NEOM include :
In conclusion, NEOM is poised to revolutionize global sustainability efforts and environmental initiatives. It promises to be a beacon of innovation, attracting investors and expatriates worldwide who are eager to be part of its groundbreaking journey. This guide serves as a gateway to the thrilling adventure of moving to NEOM, moving to Saudi Arabia, offering invaluable insights and answering pressing questions as you embark on this transformative experience.
