Imagine holidaying in a city powered entirely by renewable energy, where cutting-edge technology blends with ancient heritage or mindful living. This is no longer the stuff of science fiction but a burgeoning global reality. From the deserts of the Middle East to the mountains of Bhutan, a new wave of ambitious mega-city projects is emerging, promising to revolutionise not just urban living but the very future of travel and tourism.
The Pioneers: NEOM and the Vision for a New Future
The blueprint for this futuristic movement was laid out in 2017 by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. His £1.1 trillion NEOM project on the Red Sea coast aims to create a revolutionary 'eco-city' powered by 100% renewable energy. Eight years on, NEOM has transformed part of the coastline into a glossy mini-city, attracting expats from the UK and beyond.
Its crown jewel, The Line, was initially envisioned as a 170-kilometre-long, 500-metre-tall 'sidescraper' housing nine million people. Despite recent financial constraints leading to scaled-back ambitions, NEOM has provided a powerful template. It demonstrates a model for sustainable living that prioritises people and nature without compromising the planet's health.
A Global Blueprint: Eco-Cities from the Mediterranean to the Himalayas
Inspired by such visions, countries worldwide are now channelling energy into developing their own utopian urban spaces. These vast hubs aim for total self-sufficiency through technological innovation.
In Bhutan, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has unveiled plans for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). Spanning over 2,600 km², this Special Administrative Region will blend traditional Bhutanese spirituality with innovation, powered by renewable hydropower, solar, and geothermal energy, with surplus energy exported to India.
On the Athens Riviera, Greece is transforming the site of its old international airport into The Ellinikon. This sustainable new city promises modern residences, green spaces, and panoramic sea views, with its first phase slated for completion between 2027 and 2028.
Egypt is pursuing two major projects. New El-Alamein, a £160 million 'fourth-generation city' on the Mediterranean, plans to accommodate over three million people and feature 30,000 hotel rooms. Meanwhile, the Marassi Red Sea development will offer luxury villas, world-class resorts, and a comprehensive lifestyle experience on the Red Sea coast.
Heritage Meets Innovation and Luxury Retreats
Other projects focus on marrying rich history with futuristic design. Near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's Diriyah development, part of the Vision 2030 plan, is a $62.2 billion project set around a 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. It aims to be a sustainable landmark focusing on culture, heritage preservation, and climate resilience, eventually housing over 100,000 residents.
In Uzbekistan, the Silk Road Samarkand resort complex and the planned Eternal Bukhara project on the ancient Silk Road are positioning the country as a rising travel destination by blending thematic architecture with modern amenities.
Luxury also finds its place in this new landscape. Montenegro's Luštica Bay, with its UNESCO-protected mountain backdrop, has grown into a thriving town complete with a luxury hotel, beaches, and a marina. Furthermore, Sazan Island in Albania, recently purchased by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner for over $1 billion, is slated for transformation into an exclusive resort, pending clearance of unexploded ordnance.
The Challenges and Uncertain Road Ahead
Not all projects have smooth sailing. India's Amaravati 'Smart City' has faced significant delays, and its future remains uncertain as of 2025. Similarly, Mexico's proposed Cancun Smart Forest City, a 557-hectare green-focused research hub, exists primarily on the drawing board.
The ultimate impact of these man-made destinations on global tourism is still unknown. Critics argue they may lack authentic charm and feel 'too sterile' to truly woo travellers away from traditional resorts. However, as impressive feats of construction, architecture, and eco-technology, they undeniably represent a bold and ambitious vision for the future of how we live, work, and holiday.
