Saudi Arabian authorities have launched one of the region's most unusual projects—the creation of a large freshwater lake in the middle of the desert. The proposed reservoir, approximately 2,7 kilometers long, will be built in the Trojan Mountains in the northwest of the country and will become part of a major tourism cluster.
The initiative is expected to cost approximately $4,7 billion. The project includes the construction of three dams: the central structure will exceed 140 meters, while two auxiliary structures will ensure the stability of the entire system. The lake will cover approximately 150 hectares, and an artificial island will be created in its center for visitors to relax.
The location's unique elevation, reaching up to 2,6 km above sea level, creates a cooler microclimate, making it possible to develop a year-round resort with winter activities, including ski slopes, premium hotel infrastructure, and water sports.
Work is already in its active phase: builders have removed approximately 3 million cubic meters of soil, and the volume continues to increase by approximately 90 cubic meters per week. Experts emphasize, however, that such projects require significant resources—from water to energy for desalination and cooling. Therefore, whether such a project will receive approval from the environmental commission remains a mystery.
