Saudi Arabia announces Desert Dream luxury train service, starting late 2025
Arriving at the passenger train station in Qurayyat, the route will depart from the North Train Station in Riyadh and pass through Hail en route.
Saudi Railways Company (SAR) and the Italian Arsenale Group, renowned for managing deluxe train excursions, have inked a pact to introduce the "Desert Dream" luxury train in Saudi Arabia.
Comprising 40 opulent cabins, the "Desert Dream" train will be available for reservations by the year-end, with operations slated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025.
This novel train service aims to offer visitors an opportunity to explore different regions of the kingdom, presenting an integrated framework of lavish transportation services. As part of Saudi Railway's initiative to enhance tourism and entertainment offerings, the luxury train will initially operate between Riyadh and Qurayyat. The journey will commence at the North Train Station in Riyadh, traverse through Hail, and conclude at the passenger train station in Qurayyat.
Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on March 15, 2023, between Saudi Railways Company and Arsenale Group, the recent agreement outlines the launch plans for the project.
Paolo Barletta, Chairman of Arsenale Group, revealed that the initial production stages of the "Desert Dream" train have commenced in Italy, aligning with the announced schedule.
Dr. Bashar bin Khaled Al-Malik, CEO of Saudi Railways Company, emphasized that the proposed luxury train service, a pioneering venture for Saudi Arabia and the MENA region, will enrich transportation options in the Kingdom, enhancing the quality of services provided.
The "Desert Dream" train project aligns with the Saudi National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, contributing to the improvement of the quality of life and supporting overarching national strategies.
The Arsenale Company is an industry leader in high-end travel, international hotel and resort administration, and luxury hospitality; it has invested more than SAR200 million in the "Desert Dream" train. The organization presently undertakes sustainable initiatives for the provision of luxury services while managing a collection of six tourist trains situated in Italy.
