The Middle East is about to enter a new era of luxury travel with the launch of the Dream of the Desert, a journey that promises to redefine the experience of traveling through the Saudi desert. In 2026, Saudi Arabia will inaugurate the region’s first five-star train, transporting its passengers through breathtaking landscapes and immersive cultural locations, all with a level of sophistication that only the Dream of the Desert can offer. This innovative project, which represents a partnership between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Italian luxury brand Arsenale S.p.A., is expected to operate in the second half of 2026, bringing with it a unique travel proposal that combines luxury, comfort, culture, and history.
The Dream of the Desert is not just a means of transportation; it is a masterpiece of design and engineering. The train, with 14 carriages, was created by the talented architect and designer Aline Asmar d’Amman, founder of the Culture in Architecture studio, with branches in Paris and Beirut. D’Amman, known for her projects that combine tradition and modernity, made sure to integrate the aesthetics of traditional Arabic design with the elegance and luxury of contemporary architecture. Throughout the train, passengers will encounter a fusion of references to Saudi Arabia’s history, including inspirations from iconic destinations such as AlUla, Madain Saleh, and Hail, which are true cultural and historical treasures of the country.
The interior color palette of the train was carefully chosen to evoke the vast and mysterious landscapes of the Saudi desert. Warm tones of gold, beige, and terracotta dominate the environment, bringing forth the unmistakable beauty of the desert’s sands. To complement this, chrome finishes have been strategically used, reflecting natural light and creating a seamless connection with the exterior of the train. The design of the Dream of the Desert ensures that passengers are immersed in a sensory experience, attuned to the surrounding environment.
Every detail of the Dream of the Desert’s interior has been designed to guarantee a luxurious experience without sacrificing cultural authenticity. The reception lounges, for example, are inspired by traditional majlis, which are reception areas in many Saudi homes, where guests are welcomed with hospitality and elegance. In this environment, passengers can enjoy sophistication and comfort while absorbing Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. The use of geometric patterns and hand-carved wood on the walls, along with luxurious rugs and designer furniture, creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s tradition of hospitality.
The train’s suites are a true haven of luxury. Influenced by the Art Deco style, the suites are decorated with emerald green sofas, high-quality headboards and curtains, and sleek, sophisticated lines. The use of wood panels on the walls brings a sense of warmth and coziness, creating an environment that is both modern and immersed in tradition. These suites, which vary in size and style, will ensure the utmost comfort for passengers, with designs that are visually pleasing and provide complete relaxation during the journey.
In addition to the interior design, the Dream of the Desert stands out for its artistic curation. Along the train’s corridors, passengers will be accompanied by a selection of artwork and photographs that illustrate the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. These pieces will serve not only as decoration but also as a means of education and cultural immersion. Photographs of historical sites, such as the ruins of Madain Saleh and the ancient oases of AlUla, will create a visual connection with the destinations passengers will visit during the journey.
The exterior of the train is equally impressive in terms of design. It will be coated with a state-of-the-art chrome finish, reflecting the desert landscapes and the vibrant colors of the surrounding environment. Violet details will add a touch of modernity and sophistication to the train’s appearance, making it an icon of luxury on tracks.
The journey on the Dream of the Desert is not only a luxury experience; it also offers a unique opportunity to explore Saudi Arabia in an entirely new way. With 34 suites spread across 14 carriages, the train will offer a 1,300-kilometer route that will depart from Riyadh, the Saudi capital, and travel along the northern railway network to Qurayyat, a city near the border with Jordan. During the journey, passengers will have the chance to appreciate the majestic desert landscapes that characterize Saudi Arabia, while making stops in historic cities such as Hail, where they can enjoy a night or two exploring the rich local culture.
Dream of the Desert passengers will also have access to exclusive cultural programs developed in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture. These programs will allow travelers to engage more deeply with Saudi culture and traditions, participating in interactive experiences that connect the country’s history to the present. In addition, special tours will be offered, allowing passengers to explore culturally significant locations, such as the archaeological sites of AlUla and the ancient palaces of Madain Saleh.
Paolo Barletta, CEO of the Arsenale Group, described the Dream of the Desert as an “unprecedented travel experience,” offering passengers a “complete immersion” in Saudi Arabia’s culture and landscape. The journey will be more than just a train ride; it will be a sensory, cultural, and historical experience that combines the best of luxury with authentic Saudi experiences.
The Dream of the Desert is expected to begin operations in the late third quarter of 2026. This launch will mark a new chapter in luxury tourism and transportation in the Middle East, positioning Saudi Arabia as a world-class travel destination.
While the Dream of the Desert prepares to begin operations, another luxury rail proposition is about to be inaugurated in Europe. The Dolce Vita Orient Express, a sister train that also promises to redefine the luxury travel concept, will debut in Italy in April, offering a similarly exquisite travel experience but with a European touch. The expansion of the luxury train market, with destinations as distinct as Saudi Arabia and Italy, demonstrates a growing trend in luxury rail tourism, where journeys become an integral part of the experience and exploration of new places.
With the inauguration of the Dream of the Desert, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as an emerging leader in luxury tourism and rail transport, offering not just a way to travel but an immersive journey through its rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
