Saudi’s Neom announces new destination for art and entertainment

Saudi Arabia’s $500bn gigaproject NEOM announced a new destination under its ambit on Wednesday.

Set to be built along the Gulf of Aqaba, the Board of Directors of NEOM unveiled Utamo – an immersive destination for art and entertainment.

In a statement, NEOM called the future development, “An innovative event space to host global artists.”

Details of the new project include a space to be crafted to facilitate immersive artistic installations and performances. Advanced audio-visual systems will captivate guests with sensory experiences, enveloping them in audio-visual wonder as they become part of the performance itself.

Utamo – the ultimate entertainment destination

Photos of the development area show that guests will arrive at Utamo via an extended pathway of a garden promenade, featuring more than 50 species of shrubs, herbs and flowers, before reaching the grand hall.

The 64-meter-high entrance, which pays homage to art and design, sets the scene for the awe-inspiring experiences awaiting guests inside.

“Cocooned in a mountain located along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Utamo will be a unique backdrop for music events, exhibitions, and art activations that will transform traditional entertainment experiences,” the statement added.

Ascend winding stairs and walk through lush greenery to discover Utamo, a sensory events space like nothing you’ve seen before.

Learn more: https://t.co/eJBIidYNgA#Utamo #NEOM pic.twitter.com/HbhqmS2CaC

— NEOM (@NEOM) December 13, 2023

“Combining natural beauty and technology, the venue has been designed to be a place where art and architecture blend harmoniously, providing visitors with a truly unique experience,” said NEOM.

Additional detail of the destination include a “theatre of the future where reality and the digital realm converge.”

“Its multipurpose performance space, VIP lounges, and signature restaurants will make it one of the world’s most exclusive event spaces, as it plays host to performances from the globe’s greatest artists.”

In line with NEOM’s sustainability goals, the development of the entertainment destination will ensure minimal intervention to the surrounding environment.

NEOM’s project pipeline

The development will host events that redefine the benchmark of entertainment. It is the latest destination to be announced by the sustainable regional development evolving in northwest Saudi Arabia.

The latest announcement follows a string of other projects, including ‘tourism escape’ Siranna, new sustainable tourism destination Leyja, and Epicon, – which will feature residential beach villas, hotels, and a luxurious resort.