Dream of the Desert: Saudi Arabia Launches First Ultra-Luxury Italian Train for Tourism

Saudi Arabia Unveils "Dream of the Desert," Its First Ultra-Luxury Italian Train

Saudi Arabia has entered the elite world of luxury rail travel with the launch of "Dream of the Desert," the Kingdom's first ultra-luxury train. This landmark project, a collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Italy, is designed to transform tourism by offering unparalleled, high-end journeys through the country's most stunning desert landscapes and cultural sites.

A Landmark €70 Million Saudi-Italian Partnership

The train is the result of a €70 million investment and a strategic partnership between Italy’s Arsenale S.p.A (known for luxury rail experiences) and SIMEST, with support from the Saudi Tourism Development Fund. Built entirely in Italy by firms coordinated by Cantieri Ferroviari Italiani (CFI), the train combines Italian engineering excellence with bespoke luxury interiors.

This initiative is a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030, the national plan to diversify the economy by elevating the tourism sector and attracting high-spending international visitors.

Exclusive Journeys from Riyadh to Iconic Destinations

Set to depart from Riyadh, the Dream of the Desert will traverse spectacular routes, offering one and two-night journeys. Key itineraries will include travel to Al-Ula, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its ancient rock formations and archaeological wonders. One highlighted route is the "Taste of AlUla" experience, extending towards the Jordanian border.

The journeys are curated to be immersive, featuring off-board excursions such as guided cultural tours, allowing travelers to explore Saudi Arabia's heritage in supreme comfort and style.

Unmatched Luxury On Board

Designed by acclaimed architect Aline Asmar d’Amman, the train’s interiors blend contemporary European elegance with traditional Arabic motifs, drawing inspiration from the desert's colors and textures. Amenities will include:

• Private luxury cabins

• Elegant communal lounges

• Fine-dining restaurants serving gourmet menus that fuse Saudi flavors with international cuisine

• Dedicated relaxation spaces

The focus is on creating an exclusive, serene environment that prioritizes passenger comfort and an authentic sense of place.

Economic Impact and Tourism Vision

The launch of the Dream of the Desert is expected to significantly boost Saudi Arabia's luxury tourism appeal. It will create new jobs in hospitality and rail operations while complementing other high-end developments under Vision 2030. By offering a unique, experiential travel product, Saudi Arabia aims to secure its position on the global map for affluent, culturally curious travelers.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia Allows Private Schools to Build On-Campus Student Housing

Bookings Now Open for 2026 Journeys

With pre-reservations already open for operations starting in late 2026, the Dream of the Desert marks a bold new chapter. It symbolizes Saudi Arabia's ambitious tourism evolution, offering a world-class, immersive way to explore the Kingdom's majestic landscapes and rich history. This train is poised to become an iconic experience in the global luxury travel circuit.