This episode explores the ambitious Neom project, a futuristic city being built in Saudi Arabia's desert. Against the backdrop of Saudi Arabia's economic diversification efforts away from oil dependence and a young, growing population, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) envisioned Neom as a solution to these challenges. More significantly, the project's scale and ambition, including the construction of "The Line," a 106-mile-long linear city, are unprecedented. For instance, the episode details the recruitment of international experts to tackle various aspects of the project, from ski resort development despite the lack of natural snow to establishing a world-class education system. However, the reporting reveals significant challenges, including substantial cost overruns and delays, raising questions about the project's feasibility and the potential clash between ambitious visions and practical realities. The episode concludes by highlighting the tension between MBS's desire to leave a lasting legacy and the considerable hurdles involved in realizing his vision for Neom, leaving the audience to contemplate the future of this colossal undertaking.
