Dream of the Desert: Saudi Arabia’s Ultra-Luxury Train to Transform Tourism

Published on October 27, 2025

Saudi Arabia is set to revolutionize its tourism sector with the unveiling of its first ultra-luxury train, Dream of the Desert. The project is expected to elevate Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape by offering unparalleled travel experiences across the Kingdom. This game-changing initiative, introduced at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, is poised to leave a lasting impact on tourism in the country.

The Dream of the Desert train is a collaborative effort between Saudi Arabia Railways and Italy’s Arsenale Group. Other stakeholders include the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, the Transport General Authority, the Ministry of Culture, and the Saudi Tourism Authority. This alliance aims to make the Kingdom a top global destination for luxury tourism by 2026.

A Milestone for Saudi Tourism

Set to launch in late 2026, Dream of the Desert is a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global hub for tourism. The luxury train promises to deliver a world-class experience to the Kingdom’s most discerning travelers, taking them through some of Saudi Arabia’s most stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The train will feature 31 private suites and two presidential suites, designed to offer maximum comfort and privacy. The interiors of the train will be inspired by the Kingdom’s vast desert landscapes, incorporating desert hues, intricate wood carvings, and Murano glass lighting. Guests will experience a touch of traditional Arabian hospitality with modern luxury that appeals to both local and international visitors.

Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale, emphasized that Dream of the Desert is a masterpiece combining Italian craftsmanship with Saudi Arabian vision. He highlighted that this luxury train service will set new standards in travel and tourism. The project seeks to blend heritage, creativity, and respect for local culture, offering an exclusive and unforgettable journey across Saudi Arabia.

A Journey Like No Other

The Dream of the Desert will offer one-to-two-night journeys departing from Riyadh. The journey will cover over 1,300 kilometers of existing railway lines, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Saudi Arabia’s varied landscapes, from vast deserts to historical cities. Along the way, passengers will experience the rich traditions of the Kingdom, including its cuisine, architecture, and hospitality.

The train will have two luxurious restaurant cars, offering a selection of locally inspired dishes and international menus with Italian fusion influences, all curated to Michelin-level standards. In addition, a Majlis lounge will provide a social space where guests can relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in the cultural experience.

Supporting Saudi’s Vision 2030

According to Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, the unveiling of the Dream of the Desert represents a major step in the transformation of the Kingdom’s railway sector. The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which focuses on modernizing the country’s transport infrastructure to improve the quality of life for its citizens and visitors.

The luxury train is part of a broader push to attract high-end tourists and offer an elevated travel experience that will make Saudi Arabia an even more attractive destination. The Dream of the Desert is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting the country’s tourism industry, attracting international visitors looking for exclusive, high-end experiences.

Transforming the Tourism Landscape

The introduction of this ultra-luxury train service will undoubtedly provide a boost to Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. It represents not just an investment in transportation but an investment in the Kingdom’s future as a global tourism powerhouse. The Dream of the Desert will give travelers the opportunity to discover Saudi Arabia in a way that has never been seen before, offering unmatched luxury and access to some of the country’s most iconic destinations.

As the train’s routes unfold, it will serve as a powerful catalyst for tourism growth, contributing significantly to the country’s economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030. The project also highlights the rising foreign investment in Saudi Arabia’s transport and logistics ecosystem, with international partners playing a key role in shaping the Kingdom’s future.

A Future of Unmatched Luxury Travel

With Dream of the Desert, Saudi Arabia is laying the foundation for a new era of luxury travel. The project embodies the Kingdom’s ambition to combine its rich cultural heritage with modern tourism offerings, setting the stage for a remarkable tourism experience that caters to the world’s most discerning travelers.

As we move closer to 2026, the Dream of the Desert will be an essential part of Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a destination for luxury, heritage, and innovation. Whether traveling for business or leisure, this luxury train service will offer a one-of-a-kind experience, making Saudi Arabia a must-visit destination for those seeking the best of both worlds.