About the Train
Inspired by the sweeping desert landscape and the timeless traditions of Saudi architecture, Dream of the Desert is the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East. Unveiled in January 2025 by Saudi Arabia Railways and Italian hospitality innovator Arsenale Group, the train's interiors marry refined craftsmanship with earthy tones, sumptuous textiles, and intricate decorative details drawn from the Kingdom's storied past.
Architectural motifs from iconic Saudi landmarks — among them the ancient Nabataean city of Hegra and the historic region of Hail — are woven elegantly throughout the carriages, turning the journey itself into a living cultural exhibition. Fourteen carriages house just 34 luxury suites, ensuring an intimate scale rarely achieved on rail.
Departing from Riyadh, the train travels the Northern Railway network, threading through some of Saudi Arabia's most breathtaking heritage and natural terrain. Curated cultural programmes developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Development Authorities Support Center allow guests to encounter authentic Saudi traditions at every stop, from ancient ruins to living craft communities.
Accommodation
The train comprises 14 carriages containing 34 private luxury suites, designed to feel as intimate and personal as a boutique desert retreat. Interiors draw on earthy desert palettes, handcrafted textiles, and architectural references to landmark Saudi sites, creating spaces that are both visually dramatic and deeply restful. Full suite specifications and cabin categories will be announced alongside booking details ahead of the Q3 2026 launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dream of the Desert and where does it travel?+
Dream of the Desert is the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East, operated by Saudi Arabia Railways in partnership with Italian hospitality group Arsenale. Departing from Riyadh, it travels the Northern Railway network through some of Saudi Arabia's most dramatic desert landscapes and culturally significant heritage sites, including the ancient Nabataean city of Hegra and the historic region of Hail.
What itineraries and journeys will be available?+
Full itinerary details will be announced as the Q3 2026 launch approaches. What is confirmed is that the train traverses Saudi Arabia's Northern Railway corridor, weaving through UNESCO-listed heritage sites and natural desert terrain — with curated cultural programmes developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Saudi Tourism Authority. Contact Palace Trains for the latest route and journey updates as they are released.
How long are the journeys?+
Journey durations have not yet been published ahead of the Q3 2026 launch. We expect full schedule and duration details to be confirmed in the lead-up to opening. Please reach out to Palace Trains at travel@palacetours.com or call 1-800-724-5120 and we will share details as soon as they are available.
How much does Dream of the Desert cost?+
Pricing has not yet been announced for this pre-launch train. As with all luxury rail journeys, fares will vary by suite category, journey length, season, and group size. Palace Trains will share pricing as soon as it is released — contact us at travel@palacetours.com or call 1-800-724-5120 (toll-free) to be among the first notified.
What accommodation and suite types are on board?+
The train comprises 14 bespoke carriages housing just 34 private luxury suites — an intimate scale comparable to a boutique desert retreat. Interiors draw on earthy desert palettes, handcrafted textiles, and architectural motifs from iconic Saudi landmarks. Full suite categories and specifications will be announced alongside booking details ahead of the Q3 2026 launch.
What is included in the fare?+
Detailed inclusion lists will be confirmed at launch. Most ultra-luxury train journeys of this calibre include fine dining, curated shore excursions, and onboard entertainment; however, exact inclusions for Dream of the Desert — including cultural programmes, meals, and transfers — will be confirmed when full booking details are released. Palace Trains will verify precisely what is covered for your chosen journey.
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