The ultra-luxury Dream of the Desert is now accepting pre-reservations
Your seat awaits on Saudi Arabia’s most luxurious train journey
Ever since the Dream of the Desert was unveiled, everyone’s been obsessed. Socials blew up even more when the train made its appearance at the recent Tourise, the premier international event dedicated to luxury travel, in Riyadh.
And now, the excitement’s only growing with pre-reservations officially open.
Here’s all you need to know about Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury train “Made in Italy” that will operate in Saudi Arabia starting at the end of 2026.
Composed of 14 carriages, Dream of the Desert will feature 31 Suite Cabins and two Royal Suites, accommodating a total of 66 passengers.
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It is entirely built in Italy and embodies the finest blend of Italian craftsmanship, design, and cutting-edge rail technology, a contemporary and sustainable interpretation of timeless elegance. The interiors – designed by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman and her studio Culture in Architecture – blend the tradition of Italian design and craftsmanship with the authenticity of Saudi hospitality, creating a journey that is as culturally rich as it is visually stunning.
If you’re already dreaming of hopping onboard, good news: pre-reservations are now open on dreamofthedesert.com. The nightly rates vary by itinerary, and everything from meals to curated experiences is included. All you have to do is pay a fully refundable pre-reservation fee of SAR3,000 per suite to guarantee your place.
This exclusive pre-booking grants priority access to reservations and an invitation to the exclusive inaugural celebration, marking the arrival of Dream of the Desert in Saudi Arabia.
Where the Dream of the Desert takes you
Dream of the Desert covers approximately 1,300 kilometres along ‘the unbeaten path’ from Riyadh to the north of Saudi Arabia. The train will offer five themed itineraries, designed to reveal the Kingdom’s landscapes, heritage, and traditions through immersive onboard experiences and exceptional destination stops.
The Northern Sands:
Al Jouf
This is a three-day journey from Riyadh to Al Jouf. Guests will explore the ancient fortresses of Marid Castle, the rock carvings of Jubbah Rocks, and enjoy an immersive desert experience under the stars.
A Taste of AlUla:
From Riyadh to AlUla, blending modern Arabia with timeless heritage. Explore Al Jouf’s fortresses, Jubbah’s ancient carvings, and an exclusive desert camp beneath the stars. Culminating in AlUla, with bespoke experiences curated by Dream of the Desert in partnership with AlUla Destination.
Whispers of Jubbah:
Look forward to a two-day adventure dedicated to discovering the prehistoric carvings of Jubbah and visiting Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom and symbol of its cultural heritage.
Ramadan Nights:
Come and experience the holy month of Ramadan like never before. Guests can enjoy iftar and suhoor onboard in the heart of the desert, followed by a post-iftar stargazing experience.
Summer Mirage:
A two-day summer adventure awaits to and from Riyadh. Experience the desert’s allure during the season, and enjoy themed events, gourmet cuisine, and complete comfort onboard.
More than a train ride
Dream of the Desert is poised to become a new icon of Saudi Arabia’s experiential tourism, a benchmark of sustainable, cultural, and luxury travel.
The project marks a milestone partnership between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Arsenale S.p.A, Italy’s leading company in the development of high-end hospitality experiences by rail, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Saudi Tourism Authority, and other national entities, integrating authentic Saudi heritage into every design detail.
Marking Arsenale’s first international project, this initiative follows the company’s successful ventures in Uzbekistan, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as its acquisition of Golden Eagle.
Dream of the Desert symbolises the strength of Saudi-Italian collaboration and highlights SAR’s leading role in advancing sustainable and luxury rail experiences aligned with Vision 2030.
Ready to step aboard Dream of the Desert? This is a journey that belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. So, be sure to secure your place and be among the first to experience it.
Visit: Dreamofthedesert.com
Images: Supplied / Stephan Juillard
