The Complete Guide
All You Want to Know
All You Want to Know
About Dream of the Desert
Dream of the Desert is Saudi Arabia's inaugural five-star luxury train — a historic first for the Middle East, developed by Saudi Arabia Railways in partnership with Italy's Arsenale Group. Launching from Riyadh in Q3 2026, it will carry just 34 guests through the Kingdom's ancient desert landscapes and UNESCO-heritage sites in unmatched intimacy. Pre-reservations are now open, and Palace Trains is ready to help you secure your place on one of the world's most anticipated new rail journeys.
At a Glance
| Region | Middle East · Saudi Arabia |
| Countries | Saudi Arabia |
| Reservations | 1-800-724-5120 · travel@palacetours.com |
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.
When can I travel — are there departures available to book?+
Dream of the Desert is a pre-launch train targeting a Q3 2026 inaugural departure from Riyadh. No confirmed departure dates are available yet, and our system currently shows no scheduled sailings. Pre-reservations are open, and Palace Trains will notify registered guests as soon as the departure calendar is published. Call 1-800-724-5120 or email travel@palacetours.com to register your interest.
Who operates Dream of the Desert and what makes it special?+
Dream of the Desert is a joint venture between Saudi Arabia Railways — the Kingdom's national rail operator — and Arsenale Group, Italy's leading luxury hospitality innovator. It holds the distinction of being the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East, carrying only 34 guests at a time for an exceptionally intimate experience. Cultural programming is co-developed with the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Development Authorities Support Center, ensuring authenticity at every stop.
How do I book or register interest?+
Because Dream of the Desert is a pre-launch train, Palace Trains is taking pre-reservations now so guests are first in line when the departure calendar opens. Contact us toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, internationally or via WhatsApp at +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com. We will keep you updated with pricing, itineraries, and confirmed dates as they are released.
What cultural experiences does the train offer?+
Dream of the Desert is designed as a living cultural exhibition. Architectural details throughout the carriages reference landmark Saudi sites — from the Nabataean ruins of Hegra to the heritage of Hail — while onshore programmes, developed with the Ministry of Culture and the Saudi Tourism Authority, bring guests into contact with ancient ruins, traditional crafts, and authentic Saudi community life. Full programme details will be announced closer to the Q3 2026 launch.