All aboard: Saudi Arabia’s first-ever luxury train to make maiden voyage in 2026
You’ll want to savour the journey with this one
Saudi Arabia has been making big moves in the world of travel, with a special focus on railways. Just over the past few months, it’s been announced that the country is building a GCC railway, a Jeddah-to-Riyadh rail, and so much more. Now, the Dream of the Desert is set to take the rails in 2026.
Unveiled at the ninth Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, the country’s first-ever ultra-luxury rail service. The Dream of the Desert was previously announced by Italy’s Arsenale Group in collaboration with Saudi Arabia Railways.
Dream of the Desert
The project is a collaboration between several entities, including the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services and the Transport General Authority, as well as the Ministry of Culture and the Saudi Tourism Authority, according to a press release.
The service is set to hit the rails starting in 2026 as part of the Kingdom’s wider push to expand high-end tourism offerings. The gorgeous new train will feature 31 private suites and two presidential suites. In total, the train can accommodate up to 66 lucky guests.
Think Saudi hospitality meets Italian craftsmanship in interiors inspired by the glorious Saudi landscape (how can one not fall head over heels in love?). Putting the dream in Dream of the Desert, the new luxury train will feature desert-inspired hues, rich wood carvings, and custom Murano glass lighting.
It’s a treat for the eyes and the belly, as guests will also be welcomed into two restaurant cars. Take your pick between authentic local cuisine and international menus with Italian fusion influences, all curated to a Michelin-level standard.
According to Arab News, the inaugural journeys starting in late 2026, which will last one to two nights, will depart from Riyadh and traverse approximately 1,300 kilometres of existing railway lines.
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