Recent satellite images show that construction is moving quickly at Oxagon, the floating industrial city within Saudi Arabia’s Neom project. Neom is currently the largest construction site in the world. It plays a central role in the country’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to reduce reliance on oil and build a more diverse economy.
Oxagon sits on the Red Sea, one of the busiest maritime trade routes globally. It is part of a group of major developments, including The Line and the Trojena ski resort. Recently, Neom brought in a new CEO to address rising costs and construction delays. Since then, the company has shared several progress updates.
Technology and location give Oxagon a competitive edge
Satellite data from the Copernicus Sentinel-2 programme shows that the port’s development is moving forward at a steady pace. Oxagon is on track to become one of the most advanced shipping terminals in the world. For example, the Port of Neom recently received Saudi Arabia’s first fully automated, remote-controlled cranes. This upgrade strengthens the country’s efforts to modernise logistics and support trade growth across the Red Sea.
Importantly, Oxagon’s location gives it a clear advantage. It lies near the Suez Canal, a route that handles nearly 12% of global trade. This makes it a strong candidate to become a central point for shipping between Asia, Europe, and Africa. According to Blackridge Research & Consulting, the location enhances its potential as a smart logistics hub.
Oxagon combines industry, sustainability, and community
Saudi Arabia plans for Oxagon to run entirely on renewable energy. The city will also offer homes for around 90,000 people by 2030. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the project in 2021. He positioned it as a key step in building a new model for global trade and sustainable living.
Additionally, Neom’s Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) is building the world’s largest green hydrogen facility at the site. This $8.4 billion project will help the country lead in clean energy production.
Port Director Melissa Blake shared an update on LinkedIn: “Port of Neom is excited to receive the first batch of cranes and other cargo handling equipment as we come another step closer to delivering our vision.”
The Vision 2030 website highlights Oxagon as a place where people, nature, and technology live in balance. Similarly, Oxagon CEO Vishal Wanchoo stressed the importance of harmony between growth and the environment. He said, “Industrial growth cannot come at the cost of people or the environment. We’re building a compact, mixed-use city where industry and community thrive together.”
A growing gateway for global trade
Looking ahead, Oxagon is set to become the main trade gateway for northwestern Saudi Arabia. Its smart logistics systems will help it connect with markets across three continents. As a result, the city is expected to become a vital part of future global trade routes.
