Video: Construction begins for Saudi Arabia’s 170-km megacity

The residents of Rekha will live in a connected, artificial intelligence-powered society.

Construction of Saudi Arabia’s mega-city project, “The Line”, has begun in Neom in the country’s northwestern Tabuk province. First announced in 2017, NEOM has consistently raised eyebrows for proposed flourishes such as flying taxis and robotic maids, even as architects and economists questioned its viability.

But now that the construction video has been released and drone footage has captured a portion of the sprawling site. In the footage, several trucks and machines are seen working in the middle of the desert.

Watch drone footage:

The parallel structures of mirror-enclosed skyscrapers span 170 kilometers (more than 100 miles), known collectively as The Line.

according to a news report NationalSaudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the design of The Line. It will be the first city in the world to be powered by renewable energy including wind, solar and hydrogen power. The inhabitants of The Line will live in interconnected societies powered by artificial intelligence designed to coexist with nature. Future development will prioritize mobility, clean energy and technology to create a new way of life.

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According to Bloomberg, NEOM, the brainchild of Saudi Crown Prince and de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman, aims to build twin skyscrapers about 500 meters (1,640 feet) tall, which stretch for dozens of miles horizontally.

according to Neom WebsiteThe city is only 200 meters wide, but 170 kilometers long and 500 meters above sea level.

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“There will be no roads, cars or emissions. It will run on 100% renewable energy and 95% of the land will be conserved for nature. Unlike traditional cities, people’s health and well-being will be prioritized over transport and infrastructure,” official website said.