Latest news with #BasharAl-Malik
Saudi Gazette
20 hours ago
- Saudi Gazette
Mashaer Metro serves 1.87 million passengers during Hajj
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — The Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) transported approximately 1.87 million passengers, including pilgrims and Hajj officials, with operating 2,154 trips during the Hajj 2025. The SAR operated Mashaer Metro Train between the stations of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat during the period from Dhul Hijjah 7 until the end of the Days of Tashreeq (Dhul Hijjah 13). The operational plan for the Mashaer Metro Train during the Hajj season included five main phases. The first phase, from Dhu Al-Hijjah 7 to 8, transported over 27,000 passengers across all stations. The second phase carried 282,000 pilgrims from Mina to Arafat, followed by the third phase, which transported 294,000 pilgrims from Arafat to Muzdalifah. In the fourth phase, more than 349,000 pilgrims were transported from Muzdalifah to Mina. The final phase, which lasted until sunset on the last day of Tashreeq, recorded the movement of over 920,000 passengers to and from Mina 3 (Jamarat) station. CEO of SAR Dr. Bashar Al-Malik expressed appreciation for the support and empowerment of the Saudi leadership, which contributed to the integration of efforts and services offered to pilgrims, including transportation through the Mashaer Metro Train. He noted that the successful completion of the operational plan reflects the efforts of SAR employees and the effective coordination with operational and security agencies, supported by extensive preparatory work, including simulation exercises and full-scale trial runs, ensuring the highest levels of readiness and safety.
Gulf Insider
29-01-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Unveils Design Of Region's First Luxury Train
Inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, the interiors feature refined craftsmanship, earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate decorative details (SPA) Saudi Arabia Railways and Italian hospitality company Arsenale have unveiled the final designs of the Dream of the Desert train, the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East. According to the Saudi Press Agency, this announcement marks a significant milestone in executing the agreement signed last year between Saudi Arabia Railways and Arsenale. Inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, the interiors feature refined craftsmanship, earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate decorative details, SPA reported. Architectural elements and motifs from iconic Saudi landmarks — including Hegra and Hail — are elegantly incorporated into the train's design, offering passengers a journey that is both visually stunning and culturally enriching. The train consists of 14 carriages housing 34 luxury suites, providing an exclusive and intimate experience for travelers, according to a press release. Departing from Riyadh, the train will traverse the Northern Railway network, allowing guests to explore some of Saudi Arabia's most breathtaking heritage and natural sites. In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the train will feature curated cultural programs, enabling passengers to experience Saudi traditions in an immersive and engaging way. Additionally, the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Development Authorities Support Center are designing unique tourism itineraries that integrate seamlessly with the train journey, offering guests an unparalleled insight into Saudi heritage. Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabia Railways Saleh Al-Jasser said: 'The Dream of the Desert train is a testament to our commitment to this vision, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the transport and tourism sectors. 'This project reflects the Kingdom's ambitious drive to develop world-class infrastructure while offering unparalleled travel experiences that reinforce Saudi Arabia's status as a premier global tourism destination.' Saudi Arabia Railways CEO Bashar Al-Malik said: 'At SAR, we believe our role extends beyond operating a railway network — we are actively attracting global investments to introduce advanced transport solutions that support economic growth and regional connectivity. 'The Dream of the Desert train is a prime example of this commitment, demonstrating how collaboration between private and public sector entities can create groundbreaking experiences in luxury transport. 'With this project, we are setting a new benchmark for service excellence, merging comfort and sophistication to position Saudi Arabia among the world's leading luxury rail travel destinations.' CEO of Arsenale Group Paolo Barletta said: 'This project is more than just a luxury train; it is a fully immersive experience that blends refined design, world-class hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. 'We are proud of this achievement and look forward to welcoming our first guests on board. Dream of the Desert is expected to begin operations by the end of Q3 2026, with booking details and exclusive packages to be announced soon on the official website.'
Leaders
28-01-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Unveils ‘Dream of the Desert': Luxury Train to Launch in 2026
Saudi Arabia Unveils 'Dream of the Desert': Luxury Train to Launch in 2026 Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italy's Arsenale Group unveiled final designs for the Middle East's first five-star luxury train the 'Dream of the Desert'. Inspired by desert landscapes and Saudi architecture, interiors showcase refined craftsmanship. Earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate details create a serene, culturally rich ambiance. Iconic motifs from Madain Saleh and Hail blend seamlessly into the train's aesthetic, merging heritage with modernity. A New Era in Luxury Travel The 14-carriage train features 34 luxury suites, offering intimate journeys across Saudi Arabia's Northern Railway network. Departing from Riyadh, guests will explore heritage sites and natural wonders. Curated cultural programs, developed with the Ministry of Culture, promise immersive experiences in Saudi traditions. Tourism itineraries by the Saudi Tourism Authority will deepen travelers' connection to local heritage. Strategic Collaborations Enhance Experience SAR CEO Dr. Bashar Al-Malik highlighted the project's alignment with Vision 2030. 'We attract global investments to advance transport solutions and boost economic growth,' he stated. Arsenale CEO Paolo Barletta praised the cross-sector partnership, calling the train 'a cultural immersion, not just a journey.' Bookings for the late-2026 launch will open soon via official channels. Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser emphasized the train's role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a global tourism leader. 'This project elevates infrastructure and travel standards,' he said. The National Transport Strategy aims to solidify the Kingdom's status as a logistics hub, blending innovation with cultural authenticity. Immersive Cultural & Culinary Experience Elegant lounges mirror traditional majlis settings, adorned with hand-carved wood and geometric patterns. Onboard dining merges heritage and sophistication, featuring menus by top local and international chefs. Art exhibits along corridors showcase Saudi landmarks, enriching passengers' understanding of the Kingdom's legacy. With design approvals complete, testing and crew training will begin in early 2026. The Dream of the Desert promises to set global benchmarks in luxury rail travel, inviting explorers to witness Saudi Arabia's transformative vision firsthand. Short link :
Arab News
28-01-2025
- Business
- Arab News
KSA unveils design of region's first luxury train
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia Railways and Italian hospitality company Arsenale have unveiled the final designs of the Dream of the Desert train, the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East. According to the Saudi Press Agency, this announcement marks a significant milestone in executing the agreement signed last year between Saudi Arabia Railways and Arsenale. Inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, the interiors feature refined craftsmanship, earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate decorative details, SPA reported. Architectural elements and motifs from iconic Saudi landmarks — including Hegra and Hail — are elegantly incorporated into the train's design, offering passengers a journey that is both visually stunning and culturally enriching. The train consists of 14 carriages housing 34 luxury suites, providing an exclusive and intimate experience for travelers, according to a press release. Departing from Riyadh, the train will traverse the Northern Railway network, allowing guests to explore some of Saudi Arabia's most breathtaking heritage and natural sites. In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the train will feature curated cultural programs, enabling passengers to experience Saudi traditions in an immersive and engaging way. Additionally, the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Development Authorities Support Center are designing unique tourism itineraries that integrate seamlessly with the train journey, offering guests an unparalleled insight into Saudi heritage. Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabia Railways Saleh Al-Jasser said: 'The Dream of the Desert train is a testament to our commitment to this vision, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the transport and tourism sectors. 'This project reflects the Kingdom's ambitious drive to develop world-class infrastructure while offering unparalleled travel experiences that reinforce Saudi Arabia's status as a premier global tourism destination.' Saudi Arabia Railways CEO Bashar Al-Malik said: 'At SAR, we believe our role extends beyond operating a railway network — we are actively attracting global investments to introduce advanced transport solutions that support economic growth and regional connectivity. 'The Dream of the Desert train is a prime example of this commitment, demonstrating how collaboration between private and public sector entities can create groundbreaking experiences in luxury transport. 'With this project, we are setting a new benchmark for service excellence, merging comfort and sophistication to position Saudi Arabia among the world's leading luxury rail travel destinations.' CEO of Arsenale Group Paolo Barletta said: 'This project is more than just a luxury train; it is a fully immersive experience that blends refined design, world-class hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. 'We are proud of this achievement and look forward to welcoming our first guests on board. Dream of the Desert is expected to begin operations by the end of Q3 2026, with booking details and exclusive packages to be announced soon on the official website.'
