Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), in partnership with Italian hospitality company Arsenale, has opened pre-reservations for Dream of the Desert, billed as the Middle East’s first five-star luxury train, ahead of its planned launch in late 2026.
The project was first announced in 2024, with additional details revealed during the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh in the same year. It is being developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Transport General Authority, the Ministry of Culture, and the Saudi Tourism Authority.
According to organisers, the train is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026 as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to expand its high-end tourism offerings.
Pre-reservations have opened ahead of the train’s inaugural journeys, with prices starting at SAR 30,000 (USD 8,000) per night. A refundable deposit of SAR 2,500 (USD 666) per suite is required to secure priority access before public bookings open, with a limited number of seats available for the first runs.
The train’s interiors were designed by Lebanese architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman and her studio, Culture in Architecture. The design draws on Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes and traditional architectural elements, featuring earthy tones, carved wood detailing, and lighting inspired by traditional lanterns, alongside references to historic sites such as Madain Saleh and Ha’il.
It will consist of 14 carriages, including 31 private suites, two presidential suites, and two restaurant cars, with a total capacity of up to 66 guests. Onboard amenities will also include a central majlis-style lounge designed for social gatherings.
The two restaurant cars will offer a menu combining Saudi cuisine with international dishes featuring Italian influences, reflecting the collaboration between Saudi and Italian partners.
The train will depart from Riyadh, travelling north through Al Qassim, Ha’il, and Al Jouf, before reaching Qurayyat near the Jordanian border. Each journey is expected to last between one and two nights, covering approximately 1,300 kilometres along existing railway lines.
Organisers said passengers will also have access to curated cultural programmes highlighting Saudi traditions, alongside panoramic views of the desert landscape.
Once operational, Dream of the Desert is expected to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to position itself as a destination for luxury rail travel, as the kingdom continues to invest in tourism and cultural projects under Vision 2030.
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