Saudi Arabia’s Luxury Train, “Dream of the Desert,” Set to Debut in 2026
Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italian luxury brand Arsenale S.p.A. have unveiled the design for the region’s first five-star luxury train, “Dream of the Desert.” The train is set to launch in 2026 and will offer a unique travel experience that combines luxury with elements of Saudi culture and heritage.
The train has been designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman of Culture in Architecture, who drew inspiration from destinations like AlUla, Madain Saleh, and Hail. The design features a sandy color scheme with golds, beiges, and darker tones, along with chrome fittings that reflect the desert views outside.
The train will have 34 suites across 14 carriages, and the restaurant menu will be curated by local and international chefs. The train’s public areas will feature artworks and photographs of Saudi cultural sites, while the exterior will be clad in burnished chrome with accent of violet.
The train will operate on SAR’s Northern Railway network, offering one- and two-night luxury train cruise journeys from Riyadh to Qurayyat, which is located near the northern border with Jordan. The 1,300-kilometer route will take in the country’s desert landscapes and stop at the city of Hail.
The train’s CEO, Paolo Barletta, described it as an “unparalleled travel experience” that will be a “fully immersive experience.” The train is set to debut in the third quarter of 2026, although a sibling train, Dolce Vita Orient Express, will launch in Italy in April.
