The luxury train will begin operations in 2026. 

Get ready to hop on board. Saudi Arabia earlier announced plans to launch a luxury train service, Dream of the Desert. The first of its kind in the Middle East, the service is scheduled to open for bookings by the third quarter of 2026. Now, details of its design have been unveiled.

Dream of the Desert will feature 14 carriages housing 31 private suites and two presidential suites, and can accommodate up to 66 guests. Offering passengers an intimate and exclusive experience, each suite will be designed to reflect the desert’s natural beauty through earthy tones and details inspired by landmarks such as Madain Saleh and Hail.

Designed as a five-star destination on wheels, Dream of the Desert will offer world-class hospitality and amenities, delivering an unforgettable travel experience. There will also be two restaurant cars serving local cuisine and international favourites alongside a majlis lounge. Ready to launch next year, it aims to revolutionise local travel within the Kingdom.

In addition to providing ultimate comfort, Dream of the Desert’s one- or two-night itineraries will include on-board and off-board experiences, such as excursions, private performances, and special tours. These will provide insight into the region’s rich history and culture, promising an immersive experience—and making the train ride all the more interesting.

Saudi Arabia Railways has partnered with the Italian Arsenale Group, which specialises in high-end train trips. Set to make its inaugural journey at the end of 2026, the first trips will depart from the North Train Station in Riyadh and run through Hail to Al Qurayyat, covering a 1,300-kilometre route.

Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, and Chairman of the Saudi Arabia Railways Engineer, Saleh bin Nasser Al Jasser, explained: “This is one of the initiatives the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics has taken to improve the quality of life and support leading national strategies.”

Dream of the Desert’s initial production stages have begun in Italy. Italian Arsenale Group is a high-end hospitality group that develops and manages hotels in Italy. The company has also previously partnered with the Orient Express, Trenitalia-Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato, and Fondazione FS Italiane.

In 1947, the first railway line was constructed in Saudi Arabia. In 1981, Riyadh Dry Port was opened, and in 2018, the Haramain high-speed railway was introduced. In a bid to create environmentally friendly modes of transport, the Kingdom has also been testing out hydrogen-powered trains. 

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GO: Visit www.sar.com.sa for more information.