Saudi Arabia’s ambitious $500-billion NEOM project has selected Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA), Gensler, and Mott MacDonald to lead the initial phase of The Line, focusing on planning, design, and engineering.
DMAA, an Austrian firm, will spearhead urban design, working with experts in microclimate, ecology, mobility, and sustainability to develop The Line’s concept and detailed plans.
Saudi Arabia is investing in giga-projects like NEOM to diversify its economy beyond oil, enhancing sectors such as tourism. The Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, increasing tourism’s GDP contribution from 6% to 10%.
The Line, a 170 km city, aims to host 9 million residents and will be powered entirely by renewable energy, preserving 95% of its land for nature.
Denis Hickey, chief development officer at The Line, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating it showcases how innovation can transform urban planning.
Gensler will serve as the city planning consultant for phase one, overseeing design coordination, planning policies, and compliance. They will also handle critical infrastructure design, including transport hubs.
Mott MacDonald will manage city infrastructure, focusing on sustainable and efficient designs for both vertical and horizontal structures.
Additionally, NEOM announced the launch of Sindalah, a luxury island destination, expected to host 2,400 visitors daily by 2028 and create 3,500 jobs, bolstering the Kingdom’s hospitality sector.
