Pick your priority
NEOM status (2026 reality)
Open / accessible
- NEOM Bay airport (some flights)
- Jabal Al Lawz (highest point in Saudi Arabia, free access)
- Some Shuaiba beach areas
- Sindalah island resort (premium)
Limited / restricted
- The Line (under construction, no public access)
- Trojena (under construction)
- Oxagon (industrial zone; very limited)
- NEOM Bay town itself (mostly worker housing)
Tabuk alternatives (the real draw)
Jabal Al Lawz
Saudi Arabia's 2nd-tallest mountain. Volcanic black rock, snow in winter. Day trip from Tabuk.
Sharma / Haql beaches
Red Sea coast near the Jordan border. Diving, fishing, beach camping.
Tabuk Souq & Old Town
Traditional Najdi architecture; lesser-known historical sites; relaxed pace.
Wadi Al-Disah
Dramatic desert canyon, 2-hour drive from Tabuk. Off-road adventure.
How to read
- NEOM's visible parts are impressive but limited — most tourists need 1 day at most.
- Tabuk is the practical base for 2–4 days exploring northern Saudi.
- Combine with AlUla (4 hours south) for a "Northern Heritage Route" of 5–7 days.
Limitations
• NEOM access is restricted. Some sites require pre-booking.
• Tabuk has limited international flights; most travellers fly to NEOM airport or drive from Madinah.
FAQ
Can I visit The Line?
No — under construction. Site is restricted.
When is Trojena open?
2029 (delayed). Currently closed.
Sources
- NEOM status — NEOM Co. quarterly reports, 2024–2025.
- Tabuk tourism — Saudi Tourism Authority.