The Desert Train Dream Arrives to Redefine Middle East Tourism

In 2026, Saudi Arabia will usher in a new era in tourism with the launch of the Dream of the Desert, the Middle East's first five-star train, an experience that promises to transform the world's perception of desert travel. This exclusive route runs 1,300 kilometers, departing from Riyadh and crossing historic cities such as Al Qassim, Hail, and Al Jouf, until reaching Al Qurayyat, near the border with Jordan. During the journey, passengers are surrounded by stunning scenery, ranging from the profound silence of the dunes to the majesty of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Nature Reserve, striking a balance between contemplation and comfort. Every stop and every kilometer of the journey has been designed to provide an experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

The train is the result of a strategic collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Italian group Arsenale, internationally recognized for its sophisticated hospitality projects. The architecture and interior design are by Aline Asmar d’Amman, founder of the Culture in Architecture studio, known for her ability to transform spaces into sensory experiences. For the first time, Aline applied her vision to a train environment, and the result is a refined balance between Saudi tradition and international modernity. Every detail reflects a concern for sustainability and the upcycling of materials, giving the train not only refinement but also environmental responsibility, aligning with global trends in conscious hospitality.

There are 14 carriages and 34 suites, ensuring exclusivity and privacy for only 82 passengers per trip. The suites are true havens of sophistication: ceilings decorated with gold accents, hand-carved wood panels, artisanal fabrics, and colors that evoke the natural palette of the desert, from deep beige to soft emerald. The lounges, inspired by traditional majlis, offer private settings, perfect for intimate conversations or gazing out at the vast desert through large panoramic windows. Carefully designed lighting and custom-designed furniture create a cinematic atmosphere, where each element seems to narrate the country's history.

The cuisine is another experience in itself. With menus created by Saudi and international chefs, the train offers a fusion of local flavors and contemporary techniques, celebrating authentic ingredients and recipes that reflect the Kingdom's cultural richness. Private tastings of Arabic coffees, spiced teas, and traditional sweets can be paired with select wines and exclusive creations, making each meal a celebration of culture.

More than a journey, the train is an immersion into Saudi cultural heritage, with artwork, photographs, and handcrafted details reminiscent of historic cities such as Al Ula, Madain Saleh, and Ha'il. Exclusive cultural programs and itineraries, designed in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, allow passengers to immerse themselves in local traditions and crafts, making the experience deeply educational and memorable.

The Dream of the Desert is also a tangible expression of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which seeks to position the country as a global destination for high-end tourism and hospitality, while preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage. The journey is designed as a continuous narrative, where refinement, history, nature, and sophistication converge, offering passengers not just transportation, but a transformative experience.

Upon boarding, each passenger enters a world where the desert becomes a stage for contemplation, the interiors evoke feelings of absolute comfort, and every detail has been carefully designed to create an immersive and unique experience. Scheduled to debut in late 2026, the train promises to redefine travel in the Middle East, transforming every kilometer traveled into a moment of discovery, elegance, and exclusivity. It's a rare opportunity to explore the Saudi desert in such a sophisticated and private way, a true icon that will be remembered long after your trip ends.

Explore the Dream of the Desert and transform every kilometer of the Saudi desert into a unique experience of refinement and exclusivity. Your unique experience begins with every kilometer you travel.