The landscape of luxury travel in the Middle East is being fundamentally reshaped under the ambitious umbrella of Vision 2030, aiming to moving beyond the sleek cityscapes and internationally renowned coastal resorts, to embrace the historic romance of the Kingdom’s vast and varied landscape.

Against this backdrop, a new era of rail travel is emerging in the Kingdom. Harnessing the majesty of the Arabian desert, Saudi Arabia is preparing for the launch of 'Dream of the Desert', a project that evokes the golden age of train journeys, complete with bespoke luxury and spectacular views. The journey to secure a place on this inaugural experience begins now, as Saudi Arabia has officially opened pre-registration for its highly anticipated 'Dream of the Desert' train.

Pre-registration for bookings is now open for the Dream of the Desert train, marking the first time in the Kingdom's history that reservations are being accepted for a luxury sleeper train experience. This bespoke service is poised to become one of the Middle East’s most exclusive rail journeys when it officially launches in 2026.

What is the Dream of the Desert?

Dream of the Desert The first luxury train in the Middle East crosses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabi (2)

Dream of the Desert The first luxury train in the Middle East crosses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabi

The 'Dream of the Desert' is Saudi Arabia's answer to the world's most luxurious rail services, conceived as a flagship tourism offering designed to showcase the beauty and history of the Arabian interior. It is the result of a landmark collaboration between SAR and the Italian luxury hospitality group Arsenale Group.

The Journey: The initial planned route will span approximately 1,300 kilometres, starting from the capital city of Riyadh and traveling northwest to Al-Qurayyat, near the border of Jordan. The route is specifically engineered to offer passengers panoramic views of the diverse Saudi landscape, passing through dramatic desert scenery, historic trading towns, and geological formations.

The Design: Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman, the train is a masterful blend of Italian expertise and Saudi heritage, articulated through warm earth tones and a sense of handcrafted calm. This luxurious space fosters a dialogue between culture and the desert horizon, as afternoon light streams through tall windows, casting brass and velvet in a liquid golden glow.

The Experience: The train will consist of 35 luxury carriages, featuring spacious cabins, gourmet dining cars offering elevated local and international cuisine, and observation lounges designed for comfort and uninterrupted viewing. The service promises an immersive, five-star hotel experience on rails, complete with personalized service and curated excursions along the route.

The Goal: The project aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings under Vision 2030, attracting high-end international and regional travellers seeking a unique, cultural experience that connects the modern capital with the Kingdom's ancient northern territories.

How much does it cost to stay onboard Saudi's Dream of the Dessert?

Slated to be the Kingdom's answer to the Orient Express, the Dream of the Desert is set to command a luxury price tag. According to the website, prices are set to start from SAR 30,000 per cabin per night.

How to Secure a Booking

Courtesy Arsenale Spa/SAR

With only a limited number of luxury cabins available per journey, demand is expected to be exceptionally high. By opening the pre-registration window, potential guests with a real interest will be able to gain early access. To guarantee your place, guests must put down a fully refundable pre-reservation deposit of SAR 2,500 per suite.

Availability is strictly limited — once the inaugural suites are allocated, reservations will close. Pre-register your interest, and pay the deposit here.

By securing your space with the refundable deposit, guests will gain priority booking access ahead of the public release of bookings, and these guests receive an exclusive invitation to the private inaugural celebration marking the official debut of the Dream of the Desert.

Dream of the Desert, slated launch in 2026
Suites expected to cost from SAR 30,000 per night, per cabin
Reserve your suite onboard the Dream of the Desert, right here.
@dreamofthedesert

All images via Arsenale Group IG, Dream of the Desert IG & Aline Asmar d'Amman IG.

dream-of-the-desert