NEOM’s Trojena Mountains project, which includes the construction of artificial lakes at 2,000 meters elevation and stretching 2.8 kilometres, has hit a pause. Originally, three dams were planned to create a continuous reservoir, but as of March 2026, NEOM has issued a “termination for convenience” to the lead contractors, halting the main dam construction at 30% completion.
The Winter 2029 Asian Games, initially scheduled for Trojena, have been moved to Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Olympic Council of Asia cited delays in the original construction schedule and the need to recalibrate NEOM’s infrastructure priorities, including the main road connecting Baraka and Trojena. Despite this relocation, the Trojena development remains central to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to set a new benchmark for sustainable, high-quality mountain tourism using innovative hydraulic engineering and renewable energy.
The artificial lake, a signature feature of Trojena, would have relied on the three-dam system to provide a reliable year-round water source despite the region’s arid climate. The lake’s infrastructure supports luxury living, enhances mountain weather conditions for recreation, and underpins the broader resort development.
The suspension of the dam project followed a strategic budgetary review in March 2026, putting the $4.7 billion construction contract on hold. Once completed, the dams were designed to safely manage the significant water weight at altitude and sustain the lake for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
With the 2029 Games moved, Saudi planners can focus on developing permanent infrastructure to ensure high-quality connectivity and utilities in the region. Trojena is still a key part of Vision 2030, with a continued emphasis on creating a globally recognized, eco-conscious mountain tourism destination. The project combines high-end hospitality, renewable energy, and minimal environmental impact, demonstrating the Kingdom’s ambitions to diversify its economy and establish world-class recreational hubs using advanced technology and architecture.png-users-lpg-surrender-india-energy-policy
