Saudi Arabia’s eye-watering £1 trillion Neom project is mired in controversy, nevertheless its latest opulent addition has just been revealed: a hollow skyscraper.
The building will be developed on the country’s Zardun site, found on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. The site is made up of four buildings and aims to provide a “peaceful” retreat for visitors.
Zardun itself spans a staggering four square kilometres and is built atop a restored semi-desert landscape.
The giant building will be built around three others, on each corner of the Zardun site. The resort will allow guests to enjoy trekking, mountain biking, and rock climbing and is just one component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 project.
Neom itself will span 26,500 square kilometres, and will be comprised of a myriad of cities, resorts, and futuristic developments.
According to the Saudis: “Vision 2030 is creating a vibrant society in which all citizens can thrive and pursue their passions.
“A strong social infrastructure is underpinned by a society that values cultural traditions, national pride, and modern amenities all while embodying the spirit of modern Islam and providing effective social services.”
However, critics point to the astonishing alleged human cost and working conditions construction staff have had to endure.
A reported 21,000 deaths have occurred since 2016, when the Crown Prince launched Vision 2030, while working on the mega-projects launched in the country. The Sun has reported that staff have complained of feeling like “trapped slaves” and “beggars” in the country.
There have also been allegations of missed payments, illegal working hours and human rights violations.
There have even been reports that as many as 100,000 migrant workers have vanished during the construction of Neom.
Saudi law strictly states that no one should do more than 60 hours a week.
