Dream Of The Desert: Saudi Arabia’s First Ultra-Luxury Italian Train Enhances Tourism With Exclusive Routes And Experiences

Published on December 23, 2025

One of the most significant achievements for Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry is the Kingdom’s introduction of the Dream of the Desert, an ultra-luxury train that is to revamp the country’s hospitality and transport industries. The aspirational project, supported by the cooperation between Arsenale and SIMEST, not only entails the coming of Italy’s first ultra-luxury train service to Saudi Arabia but also very much redefines the entire travel experience with unparalleled comfort and exclusivity.

The Dream of the Desert: A Partnership Between Italy and Saudi Arabia

The Dream of the Desert is a product of collaboration between Arsenale S.p.A. and SIMEST, under the backing of the Saudi Tourism Development Fund. This 70 million euro investment has seen SIMEST and Arsenale jointly invest 37 million euro, with a 35 million euro loan provided by the Saudi government to help realise this high-profile venture.

The train, entirely designed and built in Italy, brings the combined expertise of Arsenale’s industrial hubs in Brindisi and Bergamo, alongside Cantieri Ferroviari Italiani (CFI), which oversees the coordination of Italian SMEs renowned for their innovation in design, advanced mechanics, engineering, and luxury hospitality.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s continuous efforts to diversify its economy through the Vision 2030 initiative, Dream of the Desert represents not only a major milestone in the luxury tourism sector but also a manifestation of deeper economic ties between Italy and Saudi Arabia.

Boosting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Through Luxury Travel

Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has seen significant growth over recent years, bolstered by the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 plans. The introduction of the Dream of the Desert will further solidify the Kingdom as a premier destination for ultra-luxury travel experiences. The unique itineraries the train offers will attract both domestic and international visitors, eager to experience the magnificence of Saudi Arabia in style.

With Riyadh as the departure point, the train will journey through some of the Kingdom’s most iconic sites. Passengers will experience a curated blend of onboard luxury and offboard experiences, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites and cultural landmarks such as AlUla, an ancient archaeological site in northwest Saudi Arabia, renowned for its rock formations and preserved tombs.

The Taste of AlUla itinerary extends beyond the Kingdom’s borders, venturing towards the Jordanian border, allowing tourists to enjoy the exceptional beauty and cultural richness of the region. These routes promise to attract global travellers looking for a journey that blends history, adventure, and luxury.

Amenities and Experiences for an Exclusive Journey

Every detail of the Dream of the Desert has been meticulously designed to offer guests the utmost in luxury. The interiors of the train, created by architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman, provide a sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic that combines traditional Arabic influences with cutting-edge European design.

The train will offer one- and two-night itineraries, each featuring exclusive services and amenities that include fine dining, private cabins, and relaxation areas. The service will cater to the highest standards, ensuring that guests enjoy an unparalleled level of comfort. The onboard experience will be complemented by curated excursions at key destinations, ensuring that the journey is not just a means of transport but a celebration of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural heritage.

The train will also offer themed experiences, such as culinary experiences, where passengers can indulge in local flavours while exploring the Kingdom’s rich history through guided tours. These extraordinary experiences aim to create lasting memories for all those who embark on this magnificent journey.

Economic Impact: A Significant Step for Tourism

The collaboration between Arsenale, SIMEST, and the Saudi Tourism Development Fund is a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to attracting high-value, high-spending tourists. The Dream of the Desert is set to increase the visibility of Saudi Arabia’s luxurious side, appealing to wealthy travellers from around the globe. Additionally, the train’s development will provide significant economic benefits, including job creation in the local economy, particularly for those involved in railway operations and tourism-related services.

The joint venture will also contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure, reinforcing the country’s reputation as an emerging hub for luxury tourism. By offering a premium travel experience, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a competitive destination in the global luxury travel market.

Future Prospects for the Kingdom’s Tourism Industry

As part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to boost the tourism sector, Dream of the Desert is just one example of a series of planned investments aimed at attracting international visitors. This partnership is set to become a cornerstone for further developments in the luxury travel segment, paving the way for future projects that will continue to transform the Kingdom’s tourism landscape.

The Dream of the Desert will not only attract a high-end clientele but also boost local economies along its routes, driving interest in cultural and historical tourism within the Kingdom. As more tourists flock to experience the luxury and history of Saudi Arabia, this new offering will play an integral role in the country’s push to diversify its economy.

A New Era of Travel in Saudi Arabia

The launch of the Dream of the Desert marks a transformative step in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry, combining world-class luxury with the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage. As the ultra-luxury train service takes to the rails, passengers can expect a journey like no other, filled with exceptional onboard experiences and visits to some of the most iconic locations in the region.

Dream of the Desert supported by Arsenale, SIMEST, and the Saudi Tourism Development Fund is ready to be a luxury travel milestone and a symbol of the strengthening ties between Italy and Saudi Arabia. The Dream of the Desert is the perfect place for the rich and adventurous to experience the heart of Saudi Arabia and to go on an extraordinary journey.