In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, a new dawn is breaking over the untouched landscapes of Saudi Arabia. A region that has been shrouded in mystery is now opening its doors to the world, revealing a land of extraordinary beauty and potential. This is NEOM, a pioneering project that is set to transform the Hisma Desert into a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and human progress.

In December 2022, I was privileged to be among the first photographers to witness the raw beauty of the Hisma Desert before NEOM opens its doors to the world. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. In a world where it seems every corner has been explored and every vista photographed, the opportunity to capture a place unseen and unphotographed was a thrilling challenge.

The Hisma Desert is a vast expanse of untouched wilderness, a place where the ancient and the modern coexist. The desert’s rugged terrain, punctuated by towering sand dunes and rocky outcrops, is a testament to the relentless forces of nature. Yet, amidst this harsh landscape, there is a sense of tranquility and timelessness that is truly captivating.

As a photographer, I am always in search of new perspectives, new stories to tell. The Hisma Desert offered a blank canvas, a chance to create images that were truly unique. Without the influence of other photographers’ work, I was free to explore and interpret the landscape in my own way. This was a journey of discovery, a chance to see the world through fresh eyes.

NEOM is not just a place, it’s a vision for the future. A project of unprecedented scale and ambition, NEOM aims to create a sustainable and thriving community in the heart of the desert. From cutting-edge technology to renewable energy, NEOM is set to become a global hub for innovation. 

The Hisma Desert, with its stark beauty and harsh conditions, is a reminder of our planet’s incredible diversity and resilience. As we stand on the brink of a new era, it’s more important than ever to celebrate and protect these unique landscapes. Through my photography, I hope to share the beauty of the Hisma Desert and inspire others to appreciate and protect our natural world.

As we look to the future, the Hisma Desert and NEOM represent a new frontier for exploration and discovery. A place where the ancient and the modern meet, where tradition and innovation coexist. As a photographer, I am excited to see what the future holds for this remarkable region. And I am honored to have had the opportunity to capture its beauty and potential through my lens.

All the images from all the members of the expedition are visible and downloadable at https://unsplash.com/@neom