In early 2021, Saudi Arabia unveiled the Line, a 170-kilometer-long linear city, part of the NEOM project. NEOM has since expanded with proposals for the region, including a ski destination set to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, a floating port city at OXAGON, and cliffside hotels at Leyja.

However, the Line continues to be one of the most debated of the proposals due to its scale and unprecedented design. According to the official releases, the city would measure 170 kilometers in length, 200 meters in width, and 500 meters in height, making it the 12th highest skyscraper in the world. In its final phase, it is expected to welcome 9 million residents, nearing the size of London or New York’s five boroughs.

Tarek Qaddumi, Executive Director of THE LINE Design at NEOM was interviewed about progress at THE LINE.

When questioned about the decision to use a linear layout for the city, a highly distinctive and controversial feature of the project, Qaddumi explained that the initial goal was to rethink the infrastructure network to minimize the built area on the ground. This approach intentionally deviated from traditional regional plans, which often led to the urban fabric sprawling into natural areas.

The concept of a linear city emerged as a solution, creating a central backbone that connects smaller, walkable communities and eliminates the need for conventional street infrastructure. According to Qaddumi, there are parallels between this proposal and existing cities. He highlights Manhattan as an example of a quasi-linear city and references Paris with its self-sufficient neighborhoods that offer all the essential amenities within a five-minute walk radius.

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