NEOM project unveils Utamo to host global mega artists

Saudi Arabia’s NEOM – the Kingdom’s $500 billion mega business and tourism project – has unveiled Utamo, a new destination for art and entertainment which aims to host performances from the globe’s biggest artists.

NEOM has billed its latest project as “an innovative and multipurpose event and performance space” featuring VIP lounges, and signature restaurants that aims to make it one of the world’s most exclusive event spaces.

“Cocooned in a mountain located along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Utamo creates a unique backdrop for music events, exhibitions, and art activations that will transform traditional entertainment experiences,” a statement from NEOM said.

“Combining natural beauty and technology, the venue has been designed to be a place where art and architecture blend harmoniously, providing visitors with a truly unique experience.

Guests will arrive at Utamo via an extended pathway of a garden promenade, featuring more than 50 species of shrubs, herbs and flowers, before reaching the grand hall and a 64-meter-high entrance, which pays homage to art and design.

“A theatre of the future where reality and the digital realm converge, Utamo will host events that redefine the benchmark of entertainment,” said the statement. “Its multipurpose performance space, VIP lounges, and signature restaurants will make it one of the world’s most exclusive event spaces, as it plays host to performances from the globe’s greatest artists.”

The space will be carefully crafted to facilitate immersive artistic installations and performances while advanced audio-visual systems will give “sensory experiences” to immerse viewers into performances.

In line with NEOM’s sustainability goals, the design and construction of Utamo will ensure minimal intervention with the surrounding environment.

It follows a string of other recent announcements, including exclusive ‘tourism escape’ Siranna, new sustainable tourism destination Leyja, which will be home to three boutique hotels led by luxury hospital group Habitas, and Epicon, - which will feature residential beach villas, hotels, and a luxurious resort.

Meanwhile, work is continuing on NEOM’s flagship regions, including vertical city THE LINE, business hub Oxagon, luxury yachting destination Sindalah and the mountain resort of Trojena, which will all be powered entirely by renewable, clean energy.