RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – September 20, 2025 – Saudi Arabia is set to embark on a new era of luxury tourism with the launch of its first-ever luxury train, the “Dream of the Desert,” in 2025. This ambitious project, developed in partnership between the Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Italian hospitality company Arsenale, will offer travelers a unique and opulent journey through the kingdom’s breathtaking desert landscapes.
The opulent train will operate on a 1,230-kilometer route, beginning from the capital city of Riyadh and traveling through the stunning northern deserts to the ancient city of AlUla. The journey is designed to be more than just a ride, offering a curated experience that includes on-board fine dining, sophisticated lounges, and exclusive off-train excursions to some of the country’s most significant cultural and historical sites.
The “Dream of the Desert” is part of Saudi Arabia’s bold Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and attracting millions of international tourists. The train’s 40 luxury cabins, equipped with modern amenities and designed to evoke a sense of timeless elegance, are a testament to the kingdom’s commitment to high-end tourism.
Bookings for the highly anticipated inaugural voyages are expected to open in the coming months, promising travelers an extraordinary journey that blends the romance of rail travel with the mystique of the Arabian desert.