At a recent conference in Davos, Denis Hickey, the chief development officer of NEOM, presented new insights into The LINE, an ambitious vision for a high-density, car-free city that prioritizes livability and sustainability.

The presentation included a comprehensive description of life within this unique urban environment, which is designed to surpass traditional urban planning paradigms.

Hickey highlighted that The LINE will be constructed as a three-dimensional vertical city, organized in modular sections, strategically built to facilitate both vertical and horizontal movement.

The structure will maintain a consistent height of 500 meters along its length, creating a canyon-like setting where residents can navigate effortlessly.

Central to The LINE's design is its commitment to eliminating cars entirely.

Hickey emphasized the move beyond outdated urban sprawl models by introducing a six-tier mobility system, which will transform transportation within the city.

Residents will traverse The LINE using a high-speed underground rail network, complemented by general mass transit options and rapid vertical transportation systems that replace traditional elevators.

This design aims to ensure that commute times remain under 20 minutes for all residents.

At the heart of this transport infrastructure is a high-speed rail network designed to connect the entire length of The LINE in approximately 20 minutes.

This rail system will also link to the NEOM International Airport, facilitating a travel time of only 25 minutes to the airport.

Additionally, general mass transit stations will be situated every 1.5 to 2 kilometers, ensuring widespread access to public transport.

The innovative vertical transport nodes will allow seamless travel, thereby optimizing the three-dimensional urban model to enhance accessibility.

Hickey noted that micromobility solutions, pedestrian pathways, and AI logistics will further contribute to the efficiency of the transportation network, creating a sustainable environment for all inhabitants.

A key highlight from Hickey’s address was the announcement of a futuristic stadium planned to be suspended 350 meters above ground, intended to host major events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Described as a transformative approach to sports venues, the stadium aims to offer fans an unmatched experience with panoramic views of the city.

Concerns about accessibility and socioeconomic inclusion were addressed by Hickey, who affirmed that The LINE will be developed with a diverse range of housing options, including affordable accommodations for essential workers.

Hickey clarified that the development aims to cater to all socioeconomic groups, ensuring equal access to city's resources and amenities.

The project's first phase, named Hidden Marina, is expected to accommodate over 200,000 residents.

This phase will feature integrated social infrastructure, including schools, places of worship, emergency services, hospitals, and commercial districts.

Hickey reiterated the city's commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all residents can access green spaces and cultural landmarks without demographic barriers.

Energy efficiency and climate control measures within The LINE were also highlighted.

Hickey explained that the city will utilize a glass façade designed to reflect sunlight while promoting natural airflow, thus negating the reliance on air conditioning.

The design is intended to foster a comfortable climate throughout urban spaces.

Artificial intelligence is set to play a pivotal role in the management of urban functions, from transport optimization to energy conservation.

Hickey characterized this approach as a means to enhance day-to-day life without infringing on privacy, portraying AI as a supportive presence rather than a surveillance tool.

Hickey concluded that The LINE project has advanced beyond the conceptual stage, with construction actively underway.

He conveyed that the foundations are being laid and that the project's progress signifies the realization of a futuristic urban vision.