Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The entrance to TOURISE 2025 became one of the most photographed attractions of the event: a full-scale model of the main carriage of Dream of the Desert, the first luxury train manufactured entirely in Italy that will begin its tourism journeys through the Saudi desert in 2026. The installation allowed visitors to experience the train’s interior ahead of its official debut, showcasing its Italian design, its focus on Saudi hospitality, and its commitment to ultra–high-end experiential tourism.

The announcement was made during TOURISE, where Arsenale —the Italian company globally recognized for projects such as the La Dolce Vita Orient Express train— signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA). The agreement establishes a strategic partnership to finance, promote, and globally distribute this new icon of Saudi experiential tourism, which will offer five themed itineraries from Riyadh to Al Jouf, AlUla, and other UNESCO World Heritage sites.

ABC MUNDIAL interviewed Rakan Al Mutib, a representative of the project, who emphasized: “This is the first luxury train in the Middle East and North Africa, and a 100% foreign investment made possible thanks to the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.”
The train will feature two restaurants, an exclusive lounge, and 33 suites, with capacity for just 66 passengers. “It is not a mode of transportation,” he clarified. “It is luxury tourism on rails, with experiences inside and outside the train, musicians on board, and activities designed to explore Saudi lands that have yet to be discovered.”

The project includes one-night, two-day, and three-day itineraries, with pre-reservations now available. Those who book the first journeys will be invited to the gala dinner at the official launch in December 2026. The curated programs include stops in Diriyah, the rock inscriptions of Jubbah (UNESCO), the historic Marid Castle in Al Jouf, desert camps under the stars, and personalized experiences in AlUla.

Arsenale CEO Paolo Barletta, a key figure in global luxury tourism, highlighted that Dream of the Desert “reaffirms the commitment of Italian companies to craftsmanship excellence, design, and elite hospitality.”
The 14-car train —manufactured in Brindisi and Bergamo— was designed by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman, who blended Italian tradition with Saudi cultural authenticity to create an unprecedented aesthetic experience aligned with Vision 2030.

A train designed for Saudi luxury, culture, and heritage

The train includes:

• 14 carriages fully manufactured in Italy
• 33 Suite Cabins + 2 Royal Suites
• Total capacity: 66 passengers
• Two fine-dining restaurants
• An exclusive panoramic lounge bar
• Specialized service staff trained in both Italian and Saudi hospitality standards

The Five Exclusive Themed Itineraries

1. Northern Sands – 3 days, Riyadh → Al Jouf

A journey through the remote northern region, including:

• Visits to Marid Castle
• Exploration of the UNESCO-listed Jubbah rock art site
• A night under the desert stars with traditional performances
• Premium stargazing experience

2. A Taste of AlUla – Riyadh → AlUla

Designed in collaboration with AlUla Destination, this itinerary blends the new and the ancient:

• A stop in Jubbah to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Visits to Al Jouf’s historical fortresses
• Arrival in AlUla for tailored cultural activities
• Sunset desert dinner
• Return flight to Riyadh included

3. Whispers of Jubbah – 2 days

Focused on heritage and archaeology:

• Visit to Jubbah’s prehistoric carvings
• Guided visit to Diriyah, birthplace of the Saudi state
• Immersive storytelling programs on board

4. Ramadan Nights – Seasonal Exclusive

An intimate cultural journey featuring:

• Iftar and suhoor served onboard in an elegant setting
• Spiritual and cultural sessions
• Stargazing in the desert after iftar with astronomers

5. Summer Mirage – 2 days from Riyadh

A shorter summer-themed proposal:

• Gastronomic events
• Seasonal onboard activities
• Unique desert landscapes during the hottest time of the year

Onboard Experience: Italian Craftsmanship Meets Saudi Identity

The interiors, designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman, feature a blend of:

• Custom Italian-made furniture
• Natural Saudi materials
• Handcrafted art pieces
• Soft lighting and panoramic windows

Each Suite Cabin includes:

• Private bathroom with Italian marble
• Living area that converts into a bedroom
• High-end textiles from Italian design houses
• Butler service

The Royal Suites offer:

• Expanded living space
• Full-height panoramic glass walls
• Priority off-board experiences
• Private dining area

Gastronomy and the Onboard Experience

Guests enjoy:

• Full-board service (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Menus crafted by Michelin-level Italian and Saudi chefs
• A selection of premium European and Middle Eastern beverages
• Live musicians during the journey
• A zero-technology philosophy to encourage cultural connection

Developed in partnership with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), the Ministry of Culture, and the Saudi Tourism Authority, Dream of the Desert symbolizes the strategic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Italy. With 31 Suite Cabins and 2 Royal Suites, the train combines sustainability, cutting-edge railway technology, and an immersive travel concept that promises to set a new global benchmark for luxury and cultural tourism.