The first phase of the proposed Industrial Energy City project in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia is expected to be completed in 2021. It will spread over an area of ​​approximately 50 sq km with its first phase covering about 12 sq km.

The project aims to localise industries supporting the energy sector related to oil exploration, production and refining, petrochemicals, traditional electric power and water production and treatment.

The management of the proposed Saudi Industrial Energy City will be carried out jointly by Saudi Aramco and Saudi Industrial Cities and Technology Estates (Modon), said Khalid Al Salem, general manager, Modon.

The Saudi Cabinet recently approved the establishment of the city and the allocation of land for the same. Saudi Aramco has also won approval from the government to set up two new companies that will develop and operate a new industrial energy city, said a Reuters report.

An earlier report said the city will be close to Abqaiq and will develop energy-related industries.