Search Results (21)

This study critically examines the rapid proliferation of megaprojects across the Arab region, with a focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where large-scale developments are strategically deployed to reshape global economic influence and enhance geopolitical positioning. Megaprojects, characterized by their vast scale, substantial financial investment, and long-term impact, remain a subject of intense academic debate. While much of the literature questions their economic viability, citing frequent cost overruns and misalignment with localized urban priorities, megaprojects continue to emerge worldwide. Governments and developers promote megaprojects as catalysts for foreign investment, tourism growth, and enhancing the global stature of host countries and regions. Beyond financial and economic imperatives, megaprojects are fundamentally shaped by socio-spatial, socio-political, and capital accumulation dynamics, each playing a critical role in their justification and implementation. These interconnected forces influence the prioritization of large-scale developments, often reinforcing their persistence as dominant urban and infrastructural strategies despite well-documented uncertainties and risks. The study employs a comparative case study approach to analyze two high-profile megaprojects: Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and The Line in NEOM, Saudi Arabia. By examining their underlying motivations, political, social, and economic dynamics, and projected success factors, the study aims to provide an evidence-based assessment of the forces driving these large-scale developments and their potential for completion and long-term viability. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on megaproject development by offering a nuanced, evidence-based analysis of the socio-political and economic forces shaping large-scale urban initiatives in the Arab region. By critically evaluating the motivations and viability of Masdar City and The Line, this research provides valuable insights that can inform future scholarly inquiries into the governance, planning, and long-term sustainability of megaprojects. The Study offers a strategic framework for policymakers, urban planners, and investors to make more informed, balanced decisions that align large-scale developments with broader economic and social priorities, mitigating risks associated with cost overruns, feasibility challenges, and socio-spatial disparities. Full article

City branding is crucial for shaping urban identity and global stature. Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 in Saudi Arabia across Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and Neom offers a chance to infuse ecological, cultural, and aesthetic elements into urban landscapes. This study introduces a hybrid framework for plant scheme design that blends native, adaptive, and ornamental species to enhance biodiversity and visual appeal. It analyzes case studies from Expo 2020 Dubai, Sydney Olympic Park, and Gardens by the Bay, demonstrating how landscape architecture can unite sustainability with cultural and aesthetic values. The application in Saudi Arabia’s cities customizes plant choices to local climates and cultural contexts, with a focus on Al Khobar showing successful integration of coastal resilience and heritage. This approach provides a scalable, scientifically grounded method for incorporating ecological and cultural elements into cityscapes, promoting sustainable urban development during global events. Full article

Accurate wind speed and power forecasting are key to optimizing renewable wind station management, which is essential for smart and zero-energy cities. This paper presents a novel integrated wind speed–power forecasting system (WSPFS) that operates across various time horizons, demonstrated through a case study in a high-wind area within the Middle East. The WSPFS leverages 12 AI algorithms both individual and ensemble models to forecast wind speed (WSF) and wind power (WPF) at intervals of 10 min to 36 h. A multi-horizon prediction approach is proposed, using WSF model outputs as inputs for WPF modeling. Predictive accuracy was evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean square error (MSE). Additionally, WSPFS advances the smart wind energy deep decarbonization (SWEDD) framework by calculating the carbon city index (CCI) to define the carbon-city transformation curve (CCTC). Findings from this study have broad implications, from enabling zero-energy urban projects and mega-developments like NEOM and the Suez Canal to advancing global energy trading and supply management. Full article

Kowloon Walled City (KWC), formerly the world’s most densely populated place, is an example of urban density and self-organization in opposition to current urban developments, such as NEOM’s The Line, which illustrates the future of envisioned sustainable living. The main research question addressed in this study is: How can principles of self-organization and resilience from densely populated historical urban areas be applied to enhance the sustainability and livability of future planned urban developments? This study investigates the critical components of urban livability and governance amid severe densities by examining the underlying factors that lead to KWC’s unique sort of urban equilibrium and comparing them to the ideas that motivated the creation of The Line. This multidisciplinary research employs qualitative analysis to focus on architectural styles, community interactions, and governance systems. This approach allows for an in-depth examination of the parallels and dissimilarities between natural city evolution and future city planning. Key findings reveal that KWC’s functioning stems from its complex social fabric and adaptable informal governance, providing valuable lessons in resilience and community-driven urban development. The results suggest that the flexibility and community-driven efforts of KWC are essential for ensuring long-term viability, and these aspects may be integrated into contemporary projects such as The Line. The outcomes highlight the potential of combining KWC’s social cohesiveness with The Line’s technology developments to create urban environments that are both robust and sustainable. The results are supported by evidence obtained from historical analysis, which showcases the practical uses of integrating organic and planned urban development concepts. Full article

Rising energy demands, the depletion of fossil fuels, and their environmental impact necessitate a shift towards sustainable power generation. Concentrating solar power (CSP) offers a promising solution. This study examines a hybridization of a combined cycle power plant (CCPP) based on solar energy with fossil fuel and energy storage in rock layers to increase Saudi Arabia’s electricity production from renewable energy. The fuel is used to keep the temperature at the inlet of the gas turbine at 1000 °C, ensuring the power produced by the Rankine cycle remains constant. During the summer, the sun is the main source of power generation, whereas in the winter, reliance on fuel increases significantly. The Brayton cycle operates for 10 h during peak solar radiation periods, storing exhaust heat in rock beds. For the remaining 14 h of the day, this stored heat is discharged to operate the Rankine steam cycle. Simulations and optimizations are performed, and the system is evaluated using a comprehensive 4E analysis (energy, exergy, exergoconomic, and environmental) alongside a sustainability assessment. A parametric evaluation examines the effect of key factors on system performance. The rock bed storage system compensates for solar intermittency, enabling power generation even without sunlight. The study reveals that the system generated 12.334 MW in June, achieving an energy efficiency of 37% and an exergy efficiency of 40.35%. The average electricity cost during this period was 0.0303 USD/kWh, and the carbon footprint was 0.108 kg CO₂/kWh. In contrast, during January, the system produced 13.276 MW with an energy efficiency of 37.91% and an exergy efficiency of 44.16%. The average electricity cost in January was 0.045 USD/kWh, and the carbon footprint was 0.1 kg CO₂/kWh. Interestingly, solar energy played a significant role: it contributed 81.42% of the heat in June, while in January, it accounted for 46.77%. The reduced electricity costs during June are primarily attributed to the abundant sunshine, which significantly powered the system. Full article

Smart cities like Neom require efficient and reliable transportation systems to support their vision of sustainable and interconnected urban environments. High-speed trains (HSTs) play a crucial role in connecting different areas of the city and facilitating seamless mobility. However, to ensure uninterrupted communication along the rail lines, advanced communication systems are essential to expand the coverage range of each base station (BS) while reducing the handover frequency. This paper presents the dual transceiver free space optical (FSO) communication system as a solution to achieve these objectives in the operational environment of HSTs in Neom city. Our channel model incorporates log-normal (LN) and gamma–gamma (GG) distributions to represent channel impairments and atmospheric turbulence in the city. Furthermore, we integrated the siding loop model, providing valuable insights into the system in real-world scenarios. To assess the system’s performance, we formulated the received signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the network under assumed fading conditions. Additionally, we analyzed the system’s bit error rate (BER) analytically and through Monte Carlo simulation. A comparative analysis with reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) and relay-assisted FSO communications shows the superior coverage area and efficiency of the dual transceiver model. A significant reduction of up to 76% and 99% in the number of required BSs compared to RIS and relay, respectively, is observed. This reduction leads to fewer handovers and lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) costs. Full article

Neom city is a unique cross-border city connecting Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt. Although Neom city is of great and critical importance for Saudi Arabia, few hydrological, natural hazard, and geomorphological studies have been undertaken on this region. This work aims to investigate the hydro-geomorphological characteristics and assess the flash flood hazards in Neom city by investigating several valuable morphometric parameters. The Shutter Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation model and hydrological and geological data were analyzed in this study using ArcGIS software. Based on the morphometric parameter results, total stream lengths and stream orders were relatively high (17,956.03 km and 5, respectively), whereas the average bifurcation ratio was recorded to be low at 3.54. Basins 10, 12, 17, 30, 31, 32, and 34 were described as large basins, coarse-textured, elongated, with a medium drainage density, low infiltration values, long overland flows, and high values of constant maintenance. Additionally, the El-Shamy approach for flood hazard assessment was applied side by side with the morphometric analysis, which indicated that the possibility of an intense flood hazard is very low. In general, this study suggests that most of the studied basins cover similar and resistant rocks and soils. They have minimal conditions for flooding events and suitable conditions for underground and surface water resources. Therefore, they display high signals of susceptibility to erosion. The morphometric analysis and flash flood assessment techniques applied in this study were time- and cost-effective for the morphometric characterization of landforms. This text deals with the analysis of several environmental characteristics including hydro-morphological characteristics, drainage topography and lithology, soil erosion, groundwater recharge impact, and flash flood signals. Excellent sustainability plans should be reliant on extensive and varied information about the environment. Thus, integrated analyses incorporating environmental characteristics and flood hazard assessment play an important role in adjusting and adapting the suitable socioeconomic and scientific sustainability of the development of the study city. They build up the basic and essential information required to help decision-makers and sustainability managers design and adjust the most suitable sustainability plans for the study city over the long term. Full article

DC power may be more efficient than AC power in certain applications, especially when it comes to local generation and storage. This is because AC power requires extra equipment to convert it to DC power, which can lead to energy losses. Using DC power, on the other hand, makes it easier for devices to use it directly, resulting in higher energy efficiency. Additionally, using DC power can reduce equipment capital costs as it eliminates the need for additional AC–DC conversion equipment. Finally, DC power systems can offer new communication capabilities, including plug-and-play for generation and storage devices, making it simpler to integrate these systems into existing infrastructure. This paper analyzes the optimal size of a photovoltaic/PEM fuel cell system to supply a certain DC commercial load in NEOM city. To identify the best size of the PV/PEMFC, minimizing the cost of energy (COE) and minimizing the net present cost (NPC) are considered. The paper studies three sizes of PEMFCs: 15 kW, 20 kW, and 25 kW. In addition, five different PV modules are selected: Axitec 450 Watt, Jinko 415 Watt, REC Solar 410 Watt, Seraphim 310 Watt, and Tongwei 415 Watt. The results of the study confirmed that the best size of the hybrid system comprises a 15 kW PEMFC, a 267 kW Tongwei PV array, a 60 kg electrolyzer, and a 20 kg hydrogen tank. Under these conditions, the COE and NPC are 0.293 USD/kWh and 498,984 USD, respectively. Full article

The Saudi Arabia government announced the $500 billion mega project “NEOM City”, to build a cross-border mega city to connect Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordon for attracting foreign investments to the region. NEOM city is situated on the eastern region of the Gulf of Aqaba with its western side in the Sinai Peninsula. The selected site for NEOM city is geographically remarkable; nevertheless, this site needs a detailed geological and geophysical investigation. Sinai Peninsula is a microplate between the Arabian and African plates. Its southern tip is located at a triple junction comprising the Gulf of Aqaba–Dead Sea Transform fault, the Gulf of Suez, and the Red Sea, leading to relatively higher seismic activities in the region. The current study aims to understand the thermal structure of the vicinity of NEOM city to address the potential geohazards and indicate geological attractions within and around the planned city. We use the magnetic data from which geothermal images can be obtained. The preliminary results indicate that there is geologic similarity between the southern part of Sinai Peninsula and the northern part of the Arabian shield. This is because the Gulf of Aqaba separates what was once a continues Neoproterozoic crust. In addition, the magnetic data showed the presence of prominent lineaments on either side of the Gulf of Aqaba. The notable lineaments might represent faults that could still be active. Hence, selecting a site of NEOM city to be east of the Gulf of Aqaba needs to be guided by the careful understanding of the potential hazards. In addition, shallow Curie depths near the Gulf of Aqaba are recognized as a source for renewable geothermal energy. Full article

The objective of this case study was to examine how the planned city of NEOM in Saudi Arabia can contribute to the country’s economy and sustainability goals. The case study was intended to assess the challenges of planned city projects through the lens of the potential benefits to the host country’s economy. Using data from the project’s official website and relevant publications, it became possible to assess the risk management in urban megaprojects and to explore the issue of sustainable urbanization in the context of NEOM. In order to analyze the data, content analysis and thematic analysis techniques were used which allowed for the identification of patterns and trends in the data and to draw conclusions about the potential contributions of NEOM to Saudi Arabia’s economy and sustainability goals. The findings suggest that NEOM, which aims to be a net-zero carbon city, has attracted significant partners and investors interested in testing renewable energy technologies and infrastructure. The viability of NEOM as a testing ground for sustainable planned cities and their impact on the host country will depend on the ability to effectively balance the potential economic benefits with the risks and costs associated with the project. This study’s results indicate that NEOM represents an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to rebrand its image and participate in the creation of a green future, but its success will depend on fulfilling the investment requirements and managing the project-related challenges. Full article

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is working to establish cities based on the economy and attract investments such as Neom and The Line. Moreover, at the beginning of 2021, the Saudi government announced that it will stop dealing with foreign companies that establish regional offices outside the country, starting from the beginning of the year 2024. These acts will contribute to strengthening the presence of office buildings significantly. However, the biggest challenge is the inefficient energy design and operation of the existing office buildings in an overheated environment. Therefore, improving the thermal performance of existing office buildings has become a priority for sustainable development. This study aims to evaluate the current scenario of energy performance in Saudi governmental office buildings. One of the most important strategies of the Kingdom’s vision 2030 regards energy conservation. In support of the aim of this research, the annual electric energy bill of the Agricultural Development Fund building in Najran has been collected and analyzed. Accordingly, the analyses were carried out to evaluate the improvement in energy consumption through retrofitting the building envelope. DesignBuilder simulation program was used to investigate the effects of different retrofitting strategies of the building envelope in terms of changing the type of window’s glass, adding thermal insulation layers, and applying egg-crate shading devices. The results reported that applying a combination of those strategies reduced total energy consumption by 26.81% compared with the current base case. Full article

The historic environment of north-west Saudi Arabia is likely to be severely impacted by the construction of the Neom mega-city complex and the development of the city’s hinterland. This region, located east of the Gulf of Aqaba, has only been subject to limited archaeological survey in the past, limiting any assessment of this negative impact. This paper presents data collected through a remote sensing survey of the region undertaken by the Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa (EAMENA) project, independent of the Neom project. It is argued that this data reflects a landscape of movement between north and south, with evidence of structures and monuments from at least the Bronze Age through to the pre-Islamic period, but little evidence of permanent settlement or agriculture. This should not be dismissed as a peripheral landscape, but one that contains rich archaeological evidence of concentrated activity, suggesting that some areas have held long-term significance to the people inhabiting and moving through this region. Full article

Saudi Arabia has proposed a new project, NEOM city, planned on the coast of the Red Sea with various unique and challenging features as a part of its vision 2030 to transform itself from an oil-dependent economy to knowledge-based economy. However, there are various risks and challenges associated with the project, the study of which is essential to effectively design and implement marketing and promotional strategies. Considering the large scale and scope of the project, the purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate the major contexts and associated risks in accordance with the planned city’s objectives. An online questionnaire-based survey was used to collecting data related to the severity of the risks identified and classified in a literature review. A purposive sampling approach was adopted to select experts from various governmental institutions to participate in the study. A final sample of 417 expert participants was achieved from various ministries and departments in Saudi Arabia. Eleven risk factors and challenges were identified, including design challenges, as well as legal, contractual, operational, force majeure, human resources, financial, technological, political, environmental, and sociocultural risks. Risks related to human resources (mean impact = 4) and technology factors (mean impact = 4), as well as contractual risks (mean impact = 3.9), were identified to be very high, whereas environmental (mean impact = 2.7), legal (mean impact = 2.5), and force majeure (mean impact = 2.2) risks were identified to be of low severity. Managing mega projects requires effective planning and implementation, along with risk identification and mitigation mechanisms. In addition, it is essential to manage various influencing factors (especially government decisions) in the process of implementation to achieve success. Full article

Biodiversity refers to all the type of species in one geographical region or ecosystem. It consists of plants, animals, bacteria, and other life forms. As an estimate, around 1.7 million species are on record globally and approximately 15,000–18,000 new species are added each year. Global climate change is accelerating species extinction due to habitat destruction. Further, various abiotic and biotic environmental factors are limiting the pattern of biodiversity in a geographical region. A change in species category from endangered to extinction occurs due to their physiological, morphological, and life history pattern, which limits them to a specific niche. Biodiversity is very important for energy production and flow, bioremediation, and biogeochemical cycling of nutrients in terrestrial to aquatic ecosystems and vice versa. It is further required for human existence in the form of food, fibers, medicines, and biological control. Therefore, consistent monitoring, assessment, and conservation of ecological habitats and diversity of flora and fauna of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems is the need of the hour. In this article, we are presenting an assessment based upon the literature survey on the biodiversity of Tabuk region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A comprehensive study on the biodiversity of plants, animals and microorganisms of the Tabuk region (Tabuk city, Tayma, Haql, Sharma, Duba, Al Wajh and Umluj, Al Zetah, Al Beda’a, etc.) are included in this review. This study will be a landmark as it is conducted at the inception of NEOM project in Tabuk region. It will help the authorities to enhance the native green cover, decrease desertification, regenerate biodiversity in natural environments, and advance the quality of life, to achieve the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative and VISION 2030. However, studies and investigations on Tabuk biodiversity are still limited and need further exploration. Recently, a joint work between King Salman Royal Natural Reserve (KSRNR) and Department of Biology of University of Tabuk is underway to monitor the baseline data of flora and fauna of this region. Full article

Saudi Arabia has been taking various initiatives (such as improving women’s rights for reduced dependency on male guardians, and creating training opportunities for skills improvement among Saudi locals) for creating an integrated community with diverse cultures and lifestyles as a part of transforming into a knowledge-based economy (Vision 2030). As a part of these initiatives, a new city, the NEOM project, is being constructed in the country, which includes diverse cultures, innovative technologies integrated into the ways of living and working, or simply put, as a new model for sustainable living, working and prospering. This never-before-attempted model in the country may have an impact on the local Saudi culture and lifestyles. In this context, the perceptions towards luxury fashion among the Saudi citizens were identified to be one of the important areas in lifestyles, which may be influenced by progress and development. Therefore, this study identifies and evaluates factors influencing Saudi young female consumers’ luxury fashion in Saudi Arabia, which can act as predeterminants of culture and lifestyles in Neom city. An online questionnaire-based survey was used for collecting data related to the various influencing factors classified from the literature review. A random sampling and snowball sampling approach was adopted to select the female participants across all the regions. A final sample of 775 participants was achieved after filtering the incomplete and ineligible responses. The results revealed that both motivational factors and store factors positively influenced the perceptions towards luxury brands, while significant differences were observed between the groups (educated and uneducated; employed and unemployed), while no differences were observed in relation to external factors. It can be concluded that the perception that luxury is intended for the wealthy and affluent was identified to be irrelevant, and there is a strong influence of external factors, such as social norms, religion, culture, and family on young female consumers’ luxury fashion in Saudi Arabia. Full article