All Aboard the Dream of the Desert: Saudi Arabia Gears Up for a Luxurious Rail Adventure

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the esteemed Italian Arsenale Group have reached an agreement to introduce the highly anticipated 'Dream of the Desert' luxury train service in Saudi Arabia. The Dream of the Desert train, boasting 40 lavish cabins and accommodating up to 80 passengers, is set to arrive in Saudi Arabia during the summer of 2025. The inaugural departure for paying guests is scheduled for November 2025.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Bashar Al-Malik, CEO of SAR, and Paolo Barletta, CEO of the board of directors of Arsenale Group, in a ceremony attended by Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics and Chairman of the SAR Board of Directors.

The agreement serves to implement a memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties on March 15, 2023. The first luxury train experience introducing "rail cruising" to Saudi Arabia will cover a 770-mile journey from Riyadh, passing through Hail, and concluding in the northern city of Al-Qurayat near the Jordanian border.

Minister Al-Jasser expressed his excitement about the launch of luxury train services, a first in the Middle East and North Africa region, which will bolster qualitative services and provide additional transportation options in the Kingdom. He highlighted that the agreement aligns with the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, aiming to enhance the quality of life and support vital national strategies.

The minister acknowledged the invaluable support from wise leadership, enabling the transportation and logistics services sector to achieve significant progress in its service and development projects. He also expressed gratitude for the fruitful cooperation and integration between the sector and various stakeholders in improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing user experiences.

Dr. Al-Malik emphasized SAR's dedication to its pioneering role in implementing qualitative initiatives, aligning with the company's strategy and the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services. He regarded the Dream of the Desert luxury train as a valuable addition to SAR's services, offering customers an exceptional tourism and entertainment option. Additionally, the train will provide an opportunity for both visitors and residents of Saudi Arabia to explore the Kingdom's diverse regions within the framework of luxurious transportation services.

Barletta, speaking on behalf of Arsenale Group, stated that the initial production stages of the Dream of the Desert train have recently commenced in Italy, adhering to the announced plan for its introduction to service. He assured that the luxury train will deliver an Orient Express-style travel experience, ensuring opulence and superb customer satisfaction.

Arsenale Group, renowned for its expertise in luxury hospitality, international hotel and resort management, and luxury travel, has invested over SR200 million in the Dream of the Desert train. The company is dedicated to sustainable projects aimed at delivering luxurious services, currently operating a fleet of six tourist trains in Italy.

As Saudi Arabia eagerly anticipates the arrival of the Dream of the Desert luxury train, the collaboration between SAR and Arsenale Group bears the promise of a remarkable travel experience, introducing uncharted levels of luxury and entertainment.