That Saudi Arabia is pitching itself as the new luxury tourism destination is no secret. From projects that redefine the way the world vacations to The Line, where the very idea of urban living is being reimagined, the Kingdom’s ambitions know no bounds. Joining this constellation of groundbreaking ventures is Dream of the Desert, the Middle East’s first luxury train, a joint collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italy’s Arsenale Group.
Dream of the Desert will welcome its first passengers at the end of 2026, departing from the capital, Riyadh. The luxury train will accommodate 66 travelers across 31 private suites and two presidential suites. Guests will embark on an unforgettable journey spanning 1,300 kilometers through the heart of the Kingdom, over one or two nights, for an experience expected to cost several thousand dollars. “The journey will allow travelers to discover the little-known wonders of Saudi Arabia,” said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale, in an interview with Le Figaro.
Barletta, who has perfected the art of hospitality through his luxury hotels and rail projects in Italy, brings his distinctive vision to this endeavor, one that transforms travel itself into an experience of grandeur and reflection. Dream of the Desert is designed not merely as a mode of transport but as a moving palace, seamlessly blending design excellence, refined gastronomy, and the soulful essence of Arabian culture.
What lies beneath the Dream of the Desert?
Saudi Arabia’s first luxury train could be nothing short of magnificent, and Dream of the Desert certainly delivers. In addition to its 33 suites, it features two dining cars, one dedicated to traditional Saudi cuisine and another serving Italian and international dishes. This thoughtful duality reflects its audience: affluent Saudis rediscovering their homeland and international travelers seeking an opulent yet authentic Arabian escape. The onboard gastronomy, helmed by chefs of Michelin-star caliber, ensures that the breathtaking beauty outside is mirrored by culinary artistry within.
Design that celebrates Saudi soul-
Lebanese architect and designer Aline Asmar d’Amman lends her signature touch of refinement to the interiors, shaping an atmosphere that is both timeless and rooted in place. At its heart lies a Majlis lounge, a social haven where guests can unwind, converse, and absorb the rhythm of Saudi hospitality. Every inch of the train carries intention, fine woodwork, desert-inspired tones, and soft gold accents create a harmony of warmth and sophistication.
Corridors and shared areas are adorned with commissioned Saudi artworks and artisanal detailing, steering clear of the generic aesthetic of hotel spaces. Even the reception areas, envisioned as elevated majlis, feature intricate carvings and geometric motifs reminiscent of traditional Saudi architecture, elegant nods to heritage reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.
Arsenale’s grand vision on rails
The ambitious Arsenale Group, famed for reviving the Dolce Vita Orient Express with Accor, is now extending its opulent legacy beyond Europe through Dream of the Desert. The prototype of the Saudi train offers a glimpse of Arsenale’s craftsmanship and Italian design sensibility, amplified by the expertise of the founders of Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, who now sit on its board.
Barletta revealed that the inaugural itineraries will journey north toward Jordan, exploring regions rich in culture and untouched landscapes. The signature route will begin in Riyadh and travel through Al Qassim, Hail, and Al Jouf before reaching Al Qurayyat near the Jordanian border. Along the way, passengers will pass the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Nature Reserve, a realm of majestic plateaus and canyons, a fitting backdrop for what promises to be one of the world’s most luxurious and immersive rail experiences.
