A recent documentary aired by ITV has raised serious concerns over labor conditions at Saudi Arabia’s NEOM megacity project, claiming that at least 21,000 workers have died since construction began in 2017. The project, which includes the ambitious “The Line” high-tech city, has faced intense scrutiny following these allegations.
The report alleges that over 100,000 workers are also missing. Many laborers, primarily from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, have described their working conditions as inhumane, citing 16-hour shifts, mistreatment, and inadequate wages. Some workers reportedly compared their situation to being “trapped slaves.” Nepal’s foreign employment board confirmed the deaths of 650 Nepali workers, although the exact causes remain unclear.
The documentary also highlights five deaths and arrests of residents who resisted eviction to make way for NEOM’s construction. While Saudi authorities have dismissed these claims, citing low fatality rates, the controversy deepened after NEOM CEO Nadhmi al-Nasr was abruptly dismissed. Reports allege he admitted to exploiting workers, stating, “When they drop down dead, I celebrate.” Several executives were also removed for alleged misconduct.
Also read: Saudi Arabia Begins Building Mukaab, World’s Largest Cube in Riyadh
These revelations have sparked international outrage, with human rights advocates calling for greater accountability and reforms to protect laborers working on such mega projects.
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