Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Italian hospitality firm Arsenale have officially revealed the final designs of the Dream of the Desert train, marking the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East. This pivotal moment signifies a substantial leap in reimagining luxury rail travel in the region, harmonizing modern elegance with the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia, according to a statement. The announcement aligns with the visit of the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic to the Kingdom.Â
Major advancement in luxury rail travel
According to the release, this declaration signifies a notable progression in the implementation of the agreement established last year between SAR and Arsenale.
Drawing inspiration from the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, the interiors showcase exquisite craftsmanship, featuring earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate decorative details. Architectural elements and motifs from iconic Saudi landmarks—including Madain Saleh and Hail—are artfully integrated into the train’s design, providing passengers with a journey that is both visually stunning and culturally enriching.
Exclusive experience on board
The ambitious vision of Dream of the Desert, as stated in the release, aims to redefine luxury train travel in the Kingdom, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of enhancing high-end tourism and bolstering the cultural sector.
The Dream of the Desert train consists of 14 carriages housing 34 luxury suites, offering an exclusive and intimate experience for travelers. Designed as a moving five-star destination, the train merges world-class hospitality with exquisite design, establishing a new benchmark for premium rail travel.
Immersive cultural programs
Departing from Riyadh, the train will navigate SAR’s Northern Railway network, allowing guests to discover some of Saudi Arabia’s most breathtaking heritage and natural sites. In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the train will feature curated cultural programs, ensuring passengers engage deeply with Saudi Arabia’s traditions in an immersive manner. Furthermore, the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Center for Development Authorities Support are developing unique tourism itineraries that seamlessly integrate with the train journey, providing guests with an unmatched glimpse into the heart of Saudi heritage.
Strategic significance of the project
Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of SAR, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, emphasized the project’s strategic importance: “The National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to develop an integrated transport network that strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub. The Dream of the Desert train is a testament to our commitment to this vision, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the transport and tourism sectors. This project reflects the Kingdom’s ambitious drive to develop world-class infrastructure while offering unparalleled travel experiences that reinforce Saudi Arabia’s status as a premier global tourism destination. The train combines luxury, innovation, and cultural authenticity, setting a new standard in rail travel.”
Commitment to Vision 2030
SAR CEO Dr. Bashar bin Khalid AlMalik underscored SAR’s leadership in propelling the objectives of Vision 2030 and reinforcing the integration between the transport, economic, and tourism sectors: “At SAR, we believe our role extends beyond operating a railway network—we are actively attracting global investments to introduce advanced transport solutions that support economic growth and regional connectivity. The Dream of the Desert train is a prime example of this commitment, demonstrating how collaboration between private and public sector entities can create groundbreaking experiences in luxury transport. With this project, we are setting a new benchmark for service excellence, merging comfort and sophistication to position Saudi Arabia among the world’s leading luxury rail travel destinations.”
A vision for unforgettable journeys
CEO of Arsenale Group, Paolo Barletta, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative: “When we first envisioned Dream of the Desert, our goal was to create an unparalleled travel experience—one that would take guests on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Saudi Arabia. This project is more than just a luxury train; it is a fully immersive experience that blends refined design, world-class hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. Working with SAR, the Ministry of Culture, and the Saudi Tourism Authority has been an extraordinary collaboration, allowing us to bring this vision to life in a way that authentically reflects Saudi Arabia’s beauty. We are proud of this achievement and look forward to welcoming our first guests on board. Dream of the Desert is expected to begin operations by the end of Q3 2026, with booking details and exclusive packages to be announced soon on the official website.”
A tribute to Saudi culture and craftsmanship
The train’s interiors, according to the release, have been meticulously designed to reflect the essence of Saudi Arabia. Its elegant reception lounges are inspired by traditional majlis settings, adorned with intricately hand-carved wooden elements and geometric patterns that embody the warmth of Saudi hospitality. The onboard dining experience combines heritage and sophistication, featuring a refined menu crafted in collaboration with top local and international chefs.
Passengers will also be immersed in the Kingdom’s artistic heritage, with curated art pieces and photography displayed along the train’s corridors, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural landmarks.
With the unveiling of these groundbreaking designs, the Dream of the Desert train is poised to redefine luxury travel in Saudi Arabia, offering a journey that is not only luxurious but also deeply connected to the Kingdom’s cultural and historical identity.
