Saudi Arabia announces luxury train service, 'Dream of the Desert'
Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) is teaming up with Italy's Arsenale Group to launch the Middle East's premier luxury train experience, called 'Dream of the Desert.' This 1,300-kilometer journey will connect Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, near the Jordanian border, offering one or two-night trips for up to 82 passengers. With 40 lavish cabins, the train is set to start running in late 2025, and bookings will open at the end of 2024.
Train's design is inspired by Saudi style and tradition
The opulent train's design is influenced by "Saudi style and tradition." Arsenale's CEO, Paolo Barletta, announced in an official statement that the initial production stages of the Dream of the Desert carriages have recently begun in Italy. The train's goal is to offer an all-inclusive luxury transportation experience for visitors and locals alike, as they cross the stunning desert landscapes. The initial journey will begin at Riyadh's North railway station, travel through Hail, and conclude at the Al Qurayyat station.
This is part of Saudi Arabia's tourism investment strategy
This extravagant train venture is part of Saudi Arabia's strategy to expand its economy and enhance its tourism industry. The nation plans to pour over $800 billion into travel and tourism over the next ten years, with a goal of attracting 70 million international tourists annually by 2030. Other projects in Saudi Arabia include a new luxury regenerative tourism destination along the Red Sea coast and the futuristic city NEOM.
Agreement was signed last year
The agreement about the launch comes after the project's implementation was agreed upon in a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on March 15, 2023 by Arsenale Group and SAR. Bashar bin Khaled Al Malik, SAR's CEO believes that Dream of the Desert will be a valuable addition to the company, giving both tourists and locals an opportunity to explore more of the kingdom's regions through a comprehensive luxury transportation service.
The move toward luxury train travel is a global trend
Saudi Arabia's entry into the luxury train market coincides with the growing global demand for high-speed trains and upscale rail cruises. Countries like the US and France are investing billions in new infrastructure as travelers seek eco-friendly alternatives to short-haul flights and congested highways. The Saudi service is slated to debut a year after Arsenale Group's collaboration with Accor Group, "Orient Express - La Dolce Vita," another luxury train project inspired by the iconic 1960s "La Dolce Vita" era.
