Neom, which stands for “New and Mustaqbal (Arabic for Future), promises its visitors “better humans, better society” in its virgin region of vast desert expanses and deep blue lagoons.
But behind the scenes is another tale: one in which there is an ongoing campaign to water down international climate commitments and weaken their language.
Parking Options
NEOM (or New Energy of the Future), being built by Saudi Arabia under its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and become less dependent on oil, is an ultra-smart city being constructed as part of Saudi’s efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. Home to over one million people and powered by solar, wind, and batteries – some have raised concerns regarding human rights record, but others suggest smart cities should be judged on individual merits rather than geography – this city should be completed by 2030 – two years before light rail opens in West Seattle and nine years before Ballard!
Security
Neom, the massive development project Saudi Arabia hopes will catapult it forward, has made many claims regarding sustainability and livability; however, numerous concerns have been raised that threaten its viability, including human rights abuses and security risks.
Neom’s construction site is situated in a region once home to the Al-Huwaiti tribe, who were forcibly removed to make way for this project. Due to this controversy surrounding Neom, some companies may rethink their involvement while human rights organization ALQST has called upon all businesses involved with development to consider their corporate responsibilities.
Notable also is that the project has been constructed on land that was once a desert and mountain range, enabling much of the city to use renewable energy sources that will reduce the carbon footprint of development.
Although this development aims to be sustainable, some critics fear that it could become an oppressive prison. They worry that its control by the Saudi government and use of sophisticated Chinese surveillance technology could result in residents being subjected to further surveillance; which raises grave human rights concerns given Saudi Arabia’s track record in this area.
Payment Options
Neom offers several payment options besides cash for parking, such as M-Mawaqif payment machines and rechargeable cards, or coin payment via the Darb app/M-Mawaqif website – such tickets allow users to prepay exactly for how long they plan to park as opposed to being subject to the maximum three-hour limit.
The city will focus on “walkability”, with essential daily services, such as schools and medical clinics, expected to be within five-minute walking distance from residents’ neighborhoods. High-speed transit services may also be provided to enable long-distance travel.
Critics are concerned by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s plans to create a futuristic city governed by user data, as it raises fears that Saudi Arabia could use this information for surveillance. Furthermore, Freedom House awarded Saudi Arabia with 7/100 on their human rights index score while Amnesty International listed 10 ways in which Saudi violates citizens’ rights; such concerns have likely contributed to some criticism of NEOM among Western investors and esports fans alike.
Customer Service
Neom Parking offers passengers an array of customer service options at airports. Their goal is to deliver exceptional service that enhances the airport experience, including assistance with baggage, special needs services, and other offerings. In addition, their free mobile app allows easy access to information and updates relating to flights; users can track their statuses while receiving notifications about them.
This company operates from multiple locations, including its main hub in Houston and Nederland in Colorado. Their team consists of experienced professionals who can assist with various needs ranging from booking flights and accommodations, passport applications, and travel documents as well as competitive pricing with various amenities provided.
Although NEOM is intended to be an idyllian city, many concerns have been voiced over its sustainability and liveability. The city will use 100% renewable energy sources and be carbon neutral; its focus will be walkability over automobiles; residents will have all of their daily needs within five-minute walking distance in each neighborhood; high-speed transit services will link all areas. It was conceptualized by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and spans 26,500 sq km on the Red Sea coastline.
