Arsenale, Italy’s leading company in the development of high-end hospitality experiences by rail, announces the official opening of pre-reservations for Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury train “Made in Italy” that will operate in Saudi Arabia starting at the end of 2026.
The announcement was made during Tourise, the premier international event dedicated to luxury travel, where Arsenale signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) to establish a strategic partnership focused on financing, promoting and globally distributing the project.
The train will offer five themed itineraries, designed to reveal the Kingdom’s landscapes, heritage, and traditions through immersive onboard experiences and exceptional destination stops:
- The Northern Sands – A three-day journey from Riyadh to Al Jouf, exploring the ancient fortresses of Marid Castle, the rock carvings of Jubbah Rocks, and an immersive desert experience under the stars.
- A Taste of AlUla – From Riyadh to AlUla, blending modern Arabia with timeless heritage. Explore Al Jouf’s fortresses, Jubbah’s ancient carvings, and an exclusive desert camp beneath the stars. Culminating in AlUla, with bespoke experiences curated by Dream of the Desert in partnership with AlUla Destination.
- Whispers of Jubbah – A two-day adventure dedicated to discovering the prehistoric carvings of Jubbah and visiting Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom and symbol of its cultural heritage.
- Ramadan Nights – An exclusive experience during the holy month of Ramadan, where iftar and suhoor become refined moments of conviviality and spirituality, celebrated onboard in the heart of the desert, paired with a post-iftar stargazing experience.
- Summer Mirage – A two-day summer journey to and from Riyadh, designed to experience the desert’s allure during the summer season, featuring themed events, gourmet cuisine, and absolute comfort onboard.
“With Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury “Made in Italy’’ train in Saudi Arabia, covering approximately 1,300 kilometers along ‘the unbeaten path’ from Riyadh to the north of the country, we reaffirm the tangible commitment of Italian enterprises in promoting a model of excellence grounded in craftsmanship, design, and elite hospitality,” said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale. “The agreement signed with the Saudi Tourism Authority further strengthens this vision, laying the foundations for a long-term collaboration between Italy and Saudi Arabia based on innovation, culture, and territorial enhancement.” -TradeArabia News Service