**21,000 Displaced For Saudi Mega-Project**

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Post on Nov 12, 2024

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21,000 Displaced: The Human Cost of Saudi Arabia's Mega-Project

It's a story that happens all too often: a gleaming new development, a symbol of progress and ambition, but built on the backs of those forced to move. In Saudi Arabia, the latest example is the Qiddiya project, a massive entertainment complex being built near Riyadh. This ambitious undertaking, aimed at attracting tourists and boosting the Saudi economy, has come at a cost – the displacement of over 21,000 people from their homes.

The Qiddiya project is massive, spanning 334 square kilometers. It's supposed to be a mix of theme parks, a motorsports track, a waterpark, and even a ski resort – pretty wild, right? But behind the flashy promises and renderings, there's a human story that's often ignored. Thousands of people, mostly from the Al-Kharj region, have been forced to leave their homes and communities. Some were offered compensation, but many say it wasn't enough to cover the cost of relocation and the loss of their land.

This isn't the first time this has happened in Saudi Arabia. The country's rapid development has led to the displacement of countless people, many of whom have seen their traditional way of life disrupted. It's a tough situation, and it raises important questions about the balance between development and human rights.

Can't we have both? It's a question we need to ask ourselves, especially as we see more and more ambitious mega-projects being built around the world. We need to ensure that development is inclusive, sustainable, and doesn't come at the cost of human dignity.

The story of Qiddiya is a stark reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in development. We need to make sure that the people who are most affected by these projects are involved in the decision-making process. We need to ensure they are fairly compensated and given adequate support during relocation. It's not just about building shiny new things; it's about building a better future for everyone.