Saudi Arabia's First Luxury Train ‘Dream of the Desert' To Launch In 2026, Here's What To Expect
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Taking inspiration from the historic Hejaz Railway that once connected Damascus to Medina, the Dream of the Desert will travel from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat in the north.
Saudi Arabia is all set to welcome luxury travellers with its first-ever high-end train service – Dream of the Desert – scheduled to launch in 2026.
Launch Timeline
The Dream of the Desert is expected to begin operations by the third quarter of 2026. Details on ticket prices and travel packages are set to be announced in the coming months, as per Onmanorama.
Dream of the Desert: All You Need To Know
The Dream of the Desert will feature 14 beautifully designed carriages, housing 34 private suites. Inspired by the shifting sands of the desert, the interiors will be filled with warm earthy tones, elegant furnishings, and detailed craftsmanship.
Each suite will include a private bathroom, and some will even have hot bathtubs.
Food lovers will be spoiled for choice with a menu that spans traditional Arabian delicacies to global gourmet dishes, all made with fresh ingredients by renowned international chefs.
Guests can unwind in luxurious lounges, enjoy a good book, or gaze at the stars through lounges with glass ceilings. The train will also offer cigar lounges and intimate cinema rooms, making the entire journey feel like a five-star retreat.
To honour local traditions, the Saudi Ministry of Culture is working closely with the Saudi Arabian Railways (SAR) and Italy's Arsenale Group to weave in music, art, and folklore throughout the journey.
Inspired by the legendary Hejaz Railway—which once connected Damascus to Medina—the Dream of the Desert brings a modern twist to an iconic route. Starting from Riyadh, the train will travel all the way to Al Qurayyat in the north, with stops at historic spots like Hail and several UNESCO World Heritage sites.
First Published:
June 13, 2025, 08:10 IST
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