The Challenge
Following our work on the NEOM Adventure Masterplan, VX returned to equip the first sport climbs; a proof of concept and a chance to test hardware and bolting methods on the desert sandstone.
Based on the approved proof of concept, VX was tasked to deliver a global climbing destination – develop over 100 new rock climbs on the desert towers of NEOM in Saudi Arabia, installing the bolts, cleaning loose rock and preparing the guidebook for the future visiting climbers.
Our Approach
The VX development team of four, led by adventure sports expert, Read Macadam, comprised experienced route equippers and mountain guides; all very talented climbers.
Pre-travel logistics and meticulous material calculations and preparation were critical to the success of the project. The correct amount of bolting hardware, epoxy and climbing equipment had to be imported or sourced locally in advance.
For four weeks the development team operated autonomously, living predominantly on-site, camping in the desert, to establish the climbs.
The work involved extensive site preparation, and the team worked on ropes to clean, equip, and climb each route. The hardware was tested within each climbing sector to ensure that it matched international safety norms and that best practices were met. In all cases these were exceeded.
In the week before the event, after the installation work was complete, Read created a guidebook and maps for the visitors and devised a ‘climbing marathon’ competition that would anchor the four-day launch event, Rise100.
Project Images
The Outcome
Over a four-week period more than 100 world class climbing routes were equipped. The destination was inaugurated during the Rise100 event that hosted the Saudi climbing community, plus NEOM staff, media and VIP guests, including professional climbers Emily Harrington and Adrian Ballinger from the United States.
During the week of the event, the climbing development team acted as hosts and technical support to introduce the newly delivered world-class climbing destination and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
The site has since gained the attention of the world climbing community, receiving visitors and the local NEOM staff who still visit regularly.
Subsequently, the climbing became the backdrop for NEOM’s 2023 World Beach Games, a competitive climbing event that hosted some of the best competition climbers in the world. VX, represented by Read and the team, were engaged during the event to manage safety and activate the outdoor climbing elements.
