Saudi Arabia is about to introduce its most opulent train journey yet: Dream of the Desert. This remarkable project will launch in the fall of 2026, marking a major milestone for the Middle East, as it will be the first-ever five-star luxury train in the region. The train is a collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the renowned Italian luxury brand, Arsenale S.p.A., with the design brought to life by Aline Asmar d’Amman, an architect and designer known for her fusion of cultural and modern aesthetics.
This new rail experience is set to transform train travel across Saudi Arabia, offering travelers a blend of comfort, culture, and luxury. The train’s 14 carriages will feature 34 suites and a wide range of upscale facilities, all designed with a focus on the heritage and beauty of Saudi Arabia. The design of the train draws inspiration from iconic Saudi cultural sites such as AlUla, Madain Saleh, and Hail, combining these rich influences with a high-end, contemporary flair.
The aesthetic of the Dream of the Desert is strongly influenced by the vast desert landscape that stretches across Saudi Arabia. The interiors will feature a palette of gold, beige, and earthy tones, complemented by chrome fittings, evoking the sands and vistas outside the train windows. Public areas will showcase the elegance of traditional Saudi decor, such as geometric patterns and hand-carved wooden elements reminiscent of a majlis—the traditional room used to welcome guests in Saudi homes. The suites will offer a luxurious retreat with Art Deco-inspired elements, including emerald-colored sofas and sleek wood-paneled walls, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated glamour.
One of the standout features of the Dream of the Desert is the restaurant car, which will offer panoramic views of the desert landscape as guests dine. The menu will be curated by both local and international chefs, offering an exceptional dining experience that highlights the diverse culinary traditions of Saudi Arabia. This attention to detail extends to the art and decor throughout the train, with corridors adorned by photographs and artworks showcasing the country’s rich cultural history.
The train’s journey will take passengers across SAR’s Northern Railway network, with a route stretching from Riyadh, the capital, to Qurayyat, a town near the northern border with Jordan. The 1,300-kilometer journey will pass through the country’s stunning desert scenery, with stops in notable cities such as Hail, where passengers can embark on one- and two-night trips to explore local cultural and natural wonders.
In addition to the luxurious travel experience, the Dream of the Desert will offer curated cultural programs in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Culture. Guests will be immersed in unique tourism itineraries, with experiences seamlessly integrated into the train journey itself. Though the specifics of these cultural offerings have yet to be revealed, the train promises to be more than just a transportation experience—it aims to be a fully immersive journey into the heart of Saudi Arabia’s heritage and landscape.
The Dream of the Desert will undoubtedly become a major symbol of luxury travel in the Middle East, offering an unparalleled way to experience Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural tapestry while enjoying the utmost in comfort and elegance. Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale Group, described it as an “unparalleled travel experience,” promising a journey that blends cutting-edge design with deep cultural roots. As the Middle East embraces a new era of super-luxury travel, the Dream of the Desert will be the trailblazer for future rail journeys in the region.
In 2026, this luxurious train journey is expected to be a game-changer in the world of elite travel. Until then, another luxurious rail project, the Dolce Vita Orient Express in Italy, will set the stage for a new chapter in global train experiences, giving passengers a taste of what’s to come in the Middle East.
