A recent ITV documentary titled Kingdom Uncovered: Inside Saudi Arabia has unveiled alarming statistics regarding the death toll of foreign workers involved in the ambitious Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 initiative, which includes the controversial NEOM project.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is an ambitious strategic framework launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at transforming the Kingdom’s economy and society.
This initiative seeks to reduce the country’s heavy dependence on oil by diversifying its economic base and fostering growth in sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and renewable energy.
The documentary claims that over 21,000 workers from countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Nepal have died since the project’s inception, highlighting a significant human cost associated with these grand developments.
The documentary highlights the dire conditions faced by laborers, many of whom describe their experiences as akin to being “trapped slaves.”
Workers report enduring grueling 16-hour shifts in extreme heat, with limited time for rest.
Survivors recounted to an undercover journalist how they are often treated like “beggars,” forced to work under conditions that violate international labor standards.
Despite some superficial attempts at reforming labor practices, migrant workers endure severe exploitation that nearly resembles slavery.
Reports indicate that more than 100,000 workers are unaccounted for, raising serious concerns about their welfare and safety.
Forced Displacement and Human Rights Violations
The NEOM project has also been criticized for the forced removal of over 20,000 indigenous people from their lands to make way for development.
Earlier reports revealed that Saudi authorities had been instructed to eliminate non-compliant members of the Huwaitat tribe residing in the desert area.
This displacement has drawn international condemnation and prompted calls for accountability from various human rights organizations.
In light of these revelations, Nadhmi al-Nasr, the CEO of NEOM, has reportedly stepped down amid allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the project.
Aiman Al-Mudaifer has been appointed as the acting CEO as NEOM seeks to navigate these challenges while continuing its ambitious plans.
Notably, senior executives have faced accusations of racism and misogyny, further complicating the project’s reputation.
Response from NEOM Officials
In response to the documentary’s claims, NEOM representatives stated that they require all contractors to comply with a strict code of conduct based on Saudi laws and international labor standards.
They emphasized their commitment to investigating the allegations made in the documentary and taking appropriate action where necessary.
However, critics argue that these assurances fall short given the documented abuses and deaths associated with the project.
The revelations surrounding NEOM’s labor practices have ignited a broader conversation about the ethical responsibilities of architects and firms involved in such large-scale projects.
Some prominent architectural firms have distanced themselves from NEOM amid growing concerns over human rights violations.
Reports indicate that firms such as Morphosis, Mecanoo, and Coop Himmelb(l)au have resigned from their roles due to these ethical concerns, while others continue to be associated with the project despite its troubling implications.
References
- ITV News: Kingdom Uncovered Documentary
- Human Rights Watch Report on NEOM
- The Guardian: NEOM Workers’ Deaths
- BBC News: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Initiative
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