The construction of NEOM’s Trojena desert ski project is one that is providing challenges in the Saudi Prince’s $1.5 trillion plan. The insights of the project’s challenges come to light as the Kingdom has scaled back major projects. One of the major challenges that the desert ski project faces is combating the high temperatures in the region. Trojena is part of the planned megacity of NEOM and is designated to host the Asian Winter Games in 2029. However, in a region with little snowfall it is becoming one of the most difficult tests to pull off.
Estimated to cost approximately $19 billion, the undertaking of the project was to be done by the end of 2026. However, the Saudi Kingdom is now confronting the challenge of getting Trojena ready in time for the games. Regulations on international events often demand that key infrastructure is in place well in advance. The setback provides the potential that the Gulf nation may miss some important deadlines ahead of the games.
The State of Affairs Regarding the Trojena Desert Ski Project
The state of affairs regarding the Trojena desert ski project is one that seems to be in rocky patches regarding its implementation. It is likely like solutions like moving the games to another country may eventually need to be considered. However, it is plausible that Saudi Arabia may push to meet its commitments to host the tournament. Among concerns being raised on the project is the challenge of pumping enough water up a mountain for a planned lake at Trojena. Furthermore the creation of artificial snow and the difficulties of constructing at high altitudes in the area with complex topography.
Despite this, NEOM has noted that the project, including Trojena, is progressing according to a phased plan. They also noted that despite rumors, the project is progressing well and is still on track. Organizers of the Asian Winter Games are closely tracking progress at Trojena. Though contingencies are being considered, an individual close to the project has noted that it is too soon for that as reported by Bloomberg.
