Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale revealed Dream of the Desert, Saudi Arabia’s first ultra-luxury train, at the 9th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh. Created in collaboration with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, the Transport General Authority (TGA), Ministry of Culture and the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), the unveiling marks a defining moment for ultra-luxury rail travel in the Middle East.
Designed by renowned architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman, founder of Culture in Architecture, the train’s interiors honour both Saudi heritage and Italian craftsmanship with crafted textures, reinterpreted textile weavings and rich wood carvings where desert tones of sandy browns and oasis green meet Murano-blown glass, evoking the glow of oriental lanterns.
With 31 private suites and two presidential suites, Dream of the Desert accommodates up to 66 guests and features a Majlis lounge and two restaurant cars. The culinary programme blends authentic Saudi cuisine with Italian-influenced fine dining, each menu designed by international chefs to Michelin-level fine dining standards.
Set to begin its inaugural journeys in late 2026, the train will travel 1,300 kilometres across Saudi Arabia, from Riyadh to key heritage and desert destinations. The one- to two-night itineraries will reveal UNESCO World Heritage sites and lesser-known landscapes, offering guests an intimate way to experience the Kingdom’s natural beauty and cultural depth.
“Dream of the Desert is a moving masterpiece born from the dialogue between Italian craftsmanship and Saudi vision. It celebrates heritage, creativity and a deep respect for local identity while carrying the world’s most discerning travellers through the heart of Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and traditions.”, says Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale.
The project reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in cultural and experiential tourism under Vision 2030. For Dr Bashar Khalid AlMalik, CEO of SAR, the train represents “a model partnership between SAR and global investors,” advancing the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy through innovation and design to position Saudi Arabia as a global destination for luxury and authentic travel experiences.
Visit: dreamofthedesert.com
Mariam Khawer is a Dubai-based writer and PR professional whose work spans food, art, and travel across the region. When she isn’t chasing deadlines, she’s likely at a gallery opening, testing out a new restaurant, piecing together one of her mixed-media art projects or at home with her four cats, who keep her on her toes.
