The Dream of the Desert luxury train is part of Saudi Arabian government efforts to boost tourism in the country as it eyes to attract 150 million tourists by the end of the decade under the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.
Published: October 20, 2025 6:31 PM IST
Dream of the desert train: Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is transforming Saudi Arabia on various fronts since taking over the reins of the regime as the country’s Prime Minister, and one of his personal projects is the ‘Saudi Vision 2030’, which aims to diversify the desert kingdom’s oil-based economy by promoting other revenue streams such as increased foreign investment and tourism.
Under Prince Salman’s ambitious project, Saudi Arabia is building the futuristic NEOM city which will have a artificial moon equipped with ultra-modern luxuries, and now the oil-rich nation has shocked the world with another spectacular feat, by announcing the launch of Middle East’s first luxury train, dubbed the ‘Dream of the Desert’, which is set embark on its maiden journey by the end of 2026.
What is Prince Salman’s ‘Dream of the Desert’?
The ‘Dream of the Desert’ train, described by officials as a ‘moving palace’ and a ‘palace on wheels’ has been commissioned by state-owned Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), and is being built by Italian hospitality company Arsenale Group.
According to reports, the Dream of the Desert luxury train will feature 14 carriages housing 34 luxurious suites. The interiors of the train have been crafted by Lebanese architect Aline Asmar d’Amman, boasting lavish ceilings adorned with gold, tile-fronted bars, plush velvet banquettes, and elements showcasing a touch of Saudi traditions.
The train’s reception areas are inspired by a majlis setting, featuring intricately carved wood and desert-toned colors. Dream of the Desert’s corridors will be lined with art pieces inspired by Saudi heritage and culture, while food aboard the luxury train will range from local Saudi cuisine to wide range of delicacies from across the globe, and the menu will be curated by a team of acclaimed Saudi and international chefs.
When will Dream of the Desert launch?
The Dream of the Desert will embark on its inaugural journey by the end of 2026, traversing the oil-rich kingdom’s awe-inspiring desert landscapes, taking a 13,00-km route, using already existing railway lines, officials said. The luxury train will depart from Riyadh, travelling north to Al Qurayyat, near the Jordanian border, passing through mesmerizing landscapes across Al Qassim, Hail, and Al Jouf, including a stretch bordering the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Nature Reserve, according to a report by Conde Nast Traveller.
Booking details and special packages will be announced on the official website, it said.
What does Dream of the Desert train cost?
While information is scarce about the actual cost of the Dream of the Desert project, the five-star luxury train is estimated 200 million Saudi Riyals (approximately Rs 461 crore), based on the partnership agreement between SAR and Arsenale.
How Saudi Arabia aims to attract under Saudi Vision 2030?
The Dream of Desert luxury train is part of Saudi Arabian government efforts to boost tourism in the country as it eyes to attract 150 million tourists by the end of the decade under the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. The desert nation is seemingly on the right path to achieving its ambitions goal which includes raising the contribution of the tourism to the economy to 10%.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of the project, H.E. Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of SAR, said: “The National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to develop an integrated transport network that strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub.”
“The Dream of the Desert train is a testament to our commitment to this vision, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the transport and tourism sectors. This project reflects the Kingdom’s ambitious drive to develop world-class infrastructure while offering unparalleled travel experiences that reinforce Saudi Arabia’s status as a premier global tourism destination. The train combines luxury, innovation, and cultural authenticity, setting a new standard in rail travel.”
Also Read:
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: india.com
