Part 6/9:
Critics have pointed fingers at KAEC as a potential “vanity project” influenced by King Abdullah's desire to outdo similar projects in the Gulf, such as Kuwait's Silk City and Dubai's various urban developments. After his death, the focus appears to have shifted towards other initiatives, raising questions about KAEC’s future direction. Moreover, recent geopolitical events—including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi—have resulted in decreasing foreign investments and raised concerns about the kingdom's reputation.