Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italian hospitality company Arsenale have unveiled the final designs of the Dream of the Desert train, the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East.

Inspired by Saudi Arabia’s breathtaking desert landscape and rich cultural heritage, the Dream of the Desert train’s interiors have been meticulously designed to reflect the essence of the Kingdom.

The train’s 14 carriages will feature 34 luxury suites, each offering an exclusive and intimate experience for travelers. The suites will be adorned with refined craftsmanship, earthy tones, and luxurious textiles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that showcases the warmth of Saudi hospitality.

The Dream of the Desert train will offer a curated cultural program, featuring immersive experiences that showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and natural sites. Passengers will have the opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s most breathtaking destinations, including the ancient city of Madain Saleh and the majestic landscapes of the Hail region.

The train’s journey will be carefully crafted to provide a unique and unforgettable experience, blending luxury, culture, and adventure.

The train’s culinary experience will be equally impressive, with a refined menu crafted in collaboration with top local and international chefs. Passengers will have the opportunity to savor the flavors of Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary heritage, from traditional dishes to modern twists on classic favorites.

The Dream of the Desert train is set to begin operations by the end of Q3 2026, with booking details and exclusive packages to be announced soon on the official website.

This luxury rail experience is poised to become a flagship tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers from around the world.

According to Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of SAR, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, “The Dream of the Desert train is a testament to our commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and tourism experiences. This project reflects the Kingdom’s ambitious drive to develop innovative solutions that elevate both the transport and tourism sectors.”

SAR CEO Dr. Bashar bin Khalid AlMalik added, “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.”

CEO of Arsenale Group Paolo Barletta expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “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.”