Oxagon NEOM: Redefining Industry and Innovation on the Red Sea

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Published Date:

Published Date:

Jul 25, 2025

Jul 25, 2025

Jul 25, 2025

Jul 25, 2025

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Aug 4, 2025

Aug 4, 2025

Aug 4, 2025

Aug 4, 2025

Overhead image showing Oxagon NEOM’s coastal octagon-shaped industrial city.
Overhead image showing Oxagon NEOM’s coastal octagon-shaped industrial city.
Overhead image showing Oxagon NEOM’s coastal octagon-shaped industrial city.

Oxagon, a flagship development within Saudi Arabia’s NEOM initiative, leads the way as the world’s largest floating industrial city. Strategically located on the Red Sea, it drives advancements in next-generation manufacturing, integrated logistics, and clean industry. By leveraging AI, IoT, automation, and renewable energy within a circular economy, Oxagon sets a new global benchmark for sustainable industrial growth and regional collaboration across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

A Closer Look at Oxagon: NEOM’s Smart, Sustainable Industrial Hub

Oxagon is NEOM’s advanced industrial district, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), designed to function as a global hub for innovation in clean manufacturing and logistics. Shaped like an octagon and partially built over water, Oxagon will feature one of the world’s most advanced automated ports along with fully integrated supply chain systems. The district will integrate innovative technologies with sustainable design to support efficient industry and a high-quality urban environment.

Covering approximately 200 square kilometres, Oxagon’s floating structure will serve as a real-world model of carbon-neutral industry powered entirely by green energy. It is envisioned not only as an industrial centre but also as a livable urban environment that includes research institutions, residential communities, commercial spaces, and a highly skilled workforce.

Oxagon’s Role in Advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

Developed as a core element of the broader NEOM initiative, Oxagon directly supports the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It plays a vital role in driving national transformation through the following key contributions:

  • Economic diversification by fostering the growth of future-focused industries beyond oil

  • Job creation through opportunities in advanced technology, automation, and logistics

  • Sustainable development powered by hydrogen, wind, and solar energy

  • Industrial innovation by implementing next-generation infrastructure and intelligent systems

Alongside other NEOM projects such as The Line, Trojena, and Sindalah, Oxagon stands as a flagship development reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience.

Key Features of the Oxagon

Aerial view of Oxagon, the floating city in Saudi Arabia's NEOM project, showing futuristic buildings, modular structures on the water, and a geometric layout extending into the Red Sea.

Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing

Oxagon’s manufacturing zone is purposefully designed to support future-oriented production. With greenfield access and advanced infrastructure, businesses can scale operations efficiently using renewable energy, intelligent systems, and state-of-the-art automation. By integrating robotics, nanotechnology, and sustainable materials with digital-first manufacturing processes, Oxagon positions itself as a strategic hub for next-generation industrial development.

Innovation and Research Hub

Innovation Bay is Oxagon’s living lab, built to move ideas from concept to market faster. It gives entrepreneurs, engineers, and scientists the space to test new technologies in real-world conditions, from intelligent systems to sustainable materials. Focused on research, pilot projects, and collaboration across sectors, Innovation Bay supports practical solutions to real-world challenges.

Next-Generation Port and Logistics

Strategically positioned along the Red Sea, Oxagon’s port is being developed into one of the world’s most advanced logistics hubs. Designed to handle container and general cargo, provide ferry services, and support expanded warehousing, the port prioritises speed, automation, and sustainability. Once fully operational, it will set new global standards for efficiency and carbon-neutral logistics operations.

Thriving Communities

Oxagon is envisioned as more than an industrial hub; it is a livable urban environment designed to attract and retain talent. The waterfront Oxagon Village will offer a thoughtfully planned community that integrates residential, recreational, and professional life. With walkable neighbourhoods, shared mobility solutions, wellness and leisure facilities, retail offerings, education, and healthcare services, the village reflects a holistic, sustainable approach to urban development, centred on quality of life and long-term livability.

Why Oxagon Matters to Dubai and the GCC

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, has prioritised economic diversification, regional integration, and leadership in logistics, technology, and sustainable development. Dubai, in particular, has established itself as a global hub for trade, smart infrastructure, and innovation.

Oxagon, a flagship project within NEOM in Saudi Arabia, presents a unique and complementary platform for collaboration across the GCC. Its emphasis on next-generation industry, clean energy, and digital-first infrastructure aligns closely with Dubai’s strategic goals and broader regional ambitions.

Key areas of collaboration

  • Supply chain integration across major GCC ports to enhance regional trade efficiency.

  • Joint ventures in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and clean technologies.

  • Talent mobility and workforce development through shared training and upskilling initiatives.

  • Collaborative research and development in sustainability, circular economy practices, and smart industrial systems.

As Dubai and Oxagon continue to position themselves as leaders in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, this alignment creates valuable opportunities for investors, businesses, and governments to support shared growth and long-term regional competitiveness.

Map of Oxagon, a floating industrial city in Saudi Arabia's NEOM project, showing its octagonal layout extending into the Red Sea, with labeled zones for logistics, research, port facilities, and residential areas. 

Oxagon as a Global Platform for Entrepreneurs and Investors

Oxagon presents a unique landscape for visionary businesses and investors seeking to participate in the transformation of industry. As part of NEOM’s broader economic vision, it offers tailored opportunities across high-growth sectors and a business environment designed to encourage innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration.

Target Sectors for Growth and Investment

Green Hydrogen and Renewable Energy

Capitalise on NEOM’s commitment to clean energy with large-scale projects in solar, wind, and green hydrogen production. Oxagon is positioned to become a global hub for sustainable energy solutions.

Smart Logistics and Advanced Port Technologies

Invest in next-generation logistics infrastructure, including autonomous transport systems, digital cargo tracking, and automated port operations, backed by AI and IoT integration.

Robotics, AI, and Automation

Engage in cutting-edge development of cognitive technologies, industrial automation, and machine learning applications that support smart manufacturing and intelligent infrastructure.

Low-Carbon Manufacturing

Help drive environmentally responsible production methods by supporting sustainable materials, zero-waste processes, and low-carbon manufacturing systems.

Research and Development (R&D)

Collaborate with global partners in Oxagon’s Innovation Bay to conduct applied research, prototype new technologies, and accelerate time-to-market for groundbreaking solutions.

Core Highlights of Oxagon NEOM

Category

Details

Location

Red Sea coast, northwest Saudi Arabia

Total Area

Approx. 200 sq km

Launch Year

2021 (under NEOM initiative)

Ownership

Public Investment Fund (PIF)

Core Focus

Advanced manufacturing, logistics, and clean energy

Unique Feature

The world’s largest floating industrial city

Energy Source

100% renewable (solar, wind, hydrogen)

Logistics Hub

AI-driven automated seaport and supply chain

Innovation Zone 

Innovation Bay for R&D and pilot projects

Residential Plan 

Integrated Oxagon Village for talent and families

Target Completion 

By 2030 (phased development)

From Vision to Reality: Oxagon and the Industrial Future

Oxagon is not just a bold vision; it is a tangible blueprint for the future of industrial development. As a cornerstone of NEOM and a key driver of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, it sets a new benchmark for clean manufacturing, intelligent logistics, and urban livability. With its strategic location, cutting-edge infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability, Oxagon presents unmatched opportunities for global investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators. 

Whether through cross-border collaboration with GCC economies or pioneering advancements in renewable energy and automation, Oxagon is poised to reshape the industrial landscape on a global scale. As development accelerates toward 2030, Oxagon stands ready to welcome those ready to build what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oxagon, and how does it contribute to NEOM and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

Where is Oxagon located, and why is it important?

Which industries will operate in Oxagon?

What makes Oxagon different from other industrial zones?

When will Oxagon be ready for businesses and residents?

What is Oxagon, and how does it contribute to NEOM and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

Where is Oxagon located, and why is it important?

Which industries will operate in Oxagon?

What makes Oxagon different from other industrial zones?

When will Oxagon be ready for businesses and residents?

What is Oxagon, and how does it contribute to NEOM and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

Where is Oxagon located, and why is it important?

Which industries will operate in Oxagon?

What makes Oxagon different from other industrial zones?

When will Oxagon be ready for businesses and residents?

What is Oxagon, and how does it contribute to NEOM and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

Where is Oxagon located, and why is it important?

Which industries will operate in Oxagon?

What makes Oxagon different from other industrial zones?

When will Oxagon be ready for businesses and residents?