By: Husam Yaghi
Last month, I visited NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s bold cognitive city-of-the-future; and came away with a mix of awe, curiosity, and questions. This wasn’t your usual sightseeing trip. It was a front-row seat to how the Kingdom is trying to reimagine urban living through cutting-edge technology. Though still under construction, what I saw was a fascinating glimpse into a future where smart systems and human needs intersect in surprisingly thoughtful ways.
A Balanced Take on Surveillance
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that security is a priority in Neom. The compound gate opened after my face was scanned and verified. Cameras were present, but not overwhelming, visible at key intersections and public areas, much like in other modern cities.
The transportation system was a standout. Autonomous shuttles zipped between zones, guided by what seemed like a real-time traffic optimization engine. A NEOM representative explained that the safety systems rely more on predictive analytics than constant monitoring. For example, the golf cart I rode automatically adjusted its speed near a busy market, reacting to foot traffic with subtle precision. It felt like the city itself was alive and aware.
A City in the Making
I visited two compounds and saw plenty of construction. The vision is grand, and there are hints of what’s to come. Inside the main Tonomus building, I tried augmented reality glasses that pulled up building info, navigation help, and educational content. It was impressive tech.
One highlight: a business conference where remote speakers joined via high-def holograms. The sense of presence blew standard video calls out of the water. That said, many of these tech features still felt like prototypes or showpieces rather than part of daily life, more future preview than present reality.
Smart Infrastructure
What really stood out was how the infrastructure anticipates needs. Solar panels power large sections of the city. Water recycling systems are designed for maximum efficiency, a must in the desert. I watched drones inspecting rooftops as part of preventive maintenance routines.
Healthcare also caught my eye. Clinics use advanced diagnostics and offer telehealth services. A staff member explained how wearable tech is being used for early detection of health issues. Especially in remote regions, this kind of proactive care can be a game-changer.
The Heart of NEOM
Tech aside, it was the people who truly moved me. NEOM is home to a vibrant mix of Saudi locals and international talent. I met engineers from India, designers from Italy, entrepreneurs from Nigeria, and Saudis who welcomed me like family.
One night, over a chess game, I traded jokes with a British doctor, a recipient of the UK’s Order of Merit. Another evening, I camped under the stars with engineers, laughing and barbecuing like old friends.
There were countless memorable encounters: a young Saudi woman dreaming of a sustainable fashion line, her energy infectious; a Canadian urban planner inspired by NEOM’s vision. This diversity wasn’t just background color, it was the city’s heartbeat.
Dining was just as global. One day, it was fragrant Indian biryani and tender Saudi lamb. Another, tangy Lebanese grape leaves and creamy Italian pasta. Every meal felt like a cultural celebration, and the communal tables turned strangers into friends.
Even the cafeterias had a futuristic twist. Meals were tracked via app, which offered nutrition suggestions. After pasta, it nudged me toward a fiber-rich salad, not bossy, just helpful. It struck the right balance between guidance and personal choice.
Balancing Tech and Humanity
NEOM’s tech doesn’t feel like control, it feels like care. Public screens explained how systems work. Locals could override suggestions using their devices, which reassured me about privacy and control.
One father, his eyes glowing with pride, told me how NEOM inspired his tech career. Stories like his made it clear: this city isn’t just smart, it’s soulful.
A World I’ll Never Forget
As I left NEOM, gratitude caught me off guard. Yes, it’s full of cameras and smart systems. But it’s also a living, breathing experiment in how tech can support, not replace, human connection.
There are still hurdles: scaling the tech, integrating it smoothly, earning trust. But if NEOM stays people-first, it might just pull it off.
I’d love to hear your thoughts: Can cities like NEOM really deliver on their promise? Have you visited other ambitious urban projects?
NEOM’s vision is bold: a place where technology clears the way to live boldly, love deeply, and dream without limits.
I’m all in for that future. Are you?
Let’s build cognitive cities together.