According to Semafor, the decision is linked to a reassessment of investment priorities and rising project costs. Implementation has proven to be more complex and expensive than expected, primarily due to the large-scale construction work and the need to move large volumes of soil.
The suspension of funding reflects a broader reassessment of major projects under the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy. Amid a volatile geopolitical situation and economic uncertainty in the region, authorities are tightening control over spending and budget allocation.
These changes are affecting other projects as well. The completion of the Trojena mountain resort, which is set to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, remains in question. The project involves the construction of a tourist complex in the mountains, but its timeline may be revised.
At the same time, some key projects are moving forward. Among them are the Qiddiya entertainment city, focused on tourism and the entertainment industry, as well as the JEC Tower, which is touted as potentially the world’s tallest skyscraper.
Analysts note that Saudi Arabia is gradually shifting the structure of its investments. More attention is being paid to infrastructure and industrial projects rather than initiatives focused on image and tourism. In this context, the Oxagon industrial complex stands out, as it is intended to develop industry and new logistics routes.
Previously, The Line project was considered one of the most ambitious elements of NEOM and a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s technological plans.
