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Saudi Arabia’s futuristic mountain ski resort, Trojena, and the centerpiece of Neom—the world’s largest construction project—is unlikely to be ready for the 2029 Asian Winter Games, according to a new report.
The Games could potentially be relocated to South Korea. This information was reported by Eversendai Corporation Berhad, one of the main engineering and construction contractors responsible for Trojena’s execution. Newsweek has reached out to both Eversendai Corporation Berhad and Neom for further comment.
Why It Matters
This news aligns with multiple media reports on delays and budget overruns facing the kingdom’s flagship project. Neom’s development focuses on Tabuk Province, along the Red Sea coast, encompassing various regions such as The Line, Oxagon, and Trojena, a mountain ski resort built in the desert that will require artificial snow for year-round winter sports.
What To Know
Eversendai Corporation Berhad stated that construction at Trojena will continue “without interruption” despite reports suggesting the 2029 Asian Winter Games may be reassigned to another host country. The company noted early-stage challenges, particularly related to execution timelines and complex terrain and rock conditions, which are not insurmountable.
What People Are Saying
According to Eversendai Corporation’s statement published by The Edge Malaysia: “To address the pressures associated with tight deadlines and logistical challenges, the Saudi Arabian government is reportedly exploring the option of transferring the hosting rights for the Asian Winter Games to South Korea. This strategic adjustment would provide necessary time and flexibility to ensure the long-term success of the Trojena Ski Village project without compromising its vision or objectives.”
A Neom spokesperson, Sahar Al-Anbar, wrote on LinkedIn: “It’s natural for a project of this scale to go through periods of review and adjustment. These actions are actually reassuring and reflect responsible management. By reassessing resource allocation, Neom takes a proactive approach to stay in line with its ambitious long-term objectives.”
What Happens Next
Neom has not yet provided a comprehensive update on the scope of its projects following the appointment of a new CEO.
