Exclusive | CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Futuristic City Project Leaves Abruptly
Former CEO Appointed as Senior Advisor
The CEO of Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city project, NEOM, has left his post abruptly. Nadhmi Al-Nasr, who had been in charge of the $500 billion project since its inception in 2017, left his position on Friday.
According to sources close to the matter, Al-Nasr’s departure was due to differences with the Saudi government over the direction of the project. Al-Nasr had been a vocal advocate for a more ambitious and technologically advanced NEOM, while the government was reportedly more focused on financial viability.
Al-Nasr Appointed as Senior Advisor
Despite his departure, Al-Nasr has been appointed as a senior advisor to NEOM, a position that will allow him to continue to provide input on the project’s development.
The departure of Al-Nasr is a significant setback for NEOM, which has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. The project has been criticized by some as being unrealistic and overly ambitious, and Al-Nasr’s departure is likely to further fuel these concerns.
NEOM’s Future Uncertain
It is unclear what the future holds for NEOM. The project has been a key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, but the departure of Al-Nasr raises questions about the project’s viability.
The Saudi government has not yet announced a replacement for Al-Nasr, and it is unclear who will take over the leadership of NEOM.