Saudi Arabia, known for its expansive desert, is all set to add another feather to its cap. The kingdom is launching an extravagant train service, offering an unparalleled experience of luxury and comfort. This exquisite journey, named ‘Dream of the Desert,’ is expected to debut in 2025. It promises a unique combination of luxury, tradition, and breathtaking scenic beauty.
‘Dream of the Desert,’ a luxurious train journey, will traverse the spectacular landscapes of Saudi Arabia. This grand venture is a collaboration between the Italian firm Arsenale Group and Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR). The train, entirely manufactured in Italy, will reflect the essence of Saudi Arabian style and traditional aesthetics.
Inside the Dream of the Desert Experience
The luxury train will cover approximately 800 miles, starting from Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, and concluding in Al Qurayyat, a northern province near the Jordanian border. The journey will include stops at Al Qassim, Hail, and Al Jouf, situated on the edge of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Nature Reserve.
The train will feature 40 cabins designed to offer the utmost comfort and luxury. With a capacity for 80 passengers, the train will provide a fine dining experience, a lounge bar, and other top-tier services.
Travelers on the train will be able to fully embrace the incredible beauty of Saudi Arabia, in keeping with the growing popularity of slow tourism and experiential travel. The train will offer a one- to two-day route in the Kingdom’s spectacular desert interior.
One of the significant highlights of this journey is the opportunity to travel across UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites. This unique experience will undoubtedly enrich this luxurious train journey’s historical and cultural dimension.
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ambitions
The Saudi Arabian economy stands to gain a great deal from this new train service. Two primary outcomes are the expansion of the tourism industry and the creation of employment.
Introducing this luxury train service is a part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to become a leading tourist destination. The Kingdom aims to attract 150 million visitors by the decade’s end, and this train journey is a step in the right direction.