As part of the ambitious Vision 2030 framework, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has revealed the "Desert Dream" train project. Scheduled to commence in the coming year, this initiative promises luxurious journeys across the kingdom's vast deserts, spanning from the southern regions to the northern territories. The route will offer passengers a glimpse of the nation's most significant landmarks and historical cities with an immersive and exquisite travel experience surrounded by the awe-inspiring desert.
Following the signing of a memorandum of cooperation valued at 200 million Saudi riyals between Saudi Railways (SAR) and the Italian group Arsenale, renowned for its expertise in luxury travel and hospitality, the "Dream Train" project has been initiated. This venture will offer an extravagant travel experience, connecting various Saudi desert destinations, extending all the way to the Jordanian border at Al-Qurayyat station, covering a distance of 1,300 kilometres.
The train includes 40 luxury cabins overseen by Arsenale, well known for its extensive expertise in hospitality and luxury services worldwide. With a focus on global projects that demand best-in-class management and hospitality, Arsenale brings its distinguished reputation to ensure a remarkable experience aboard the Dream Train.
Drawing inspiration from Saudi style and culture, the design of the train has been thoughtfully crafted by the Italian company Arsenale to harmonise with the desert landscapes it will traverse. Ticket reservations are anticipated to commence by the end of 2024, with the inaugural journeys scheduled to begin by the end of 2025. The duration of these trips is expected to span between one to two nights, accommodating a maximum capacity of up to 82 passengers.
The Desert Dream Train project stands as a tangible manifestation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to realising the goals outlined in Vision 2030. As the kingdom endeavours to emerge as a prominent tourist destination in both the regional and global spheres, its rich array of tourist attractions becomes increasingly evident. From the desert landscapes to the picturesque coastal and mountainous regions adjacent to the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia has initiated various projects across numerous cities and locales, setting the stage for a vibrant tourism sector.