There is something undeniably poetic about the desert, an endless horizon of golden dunes, shifting sands whispering ancient tales, and a profound sense of stillness. Now, for the first time, this vast expanse will be traversed by a moving masterpiece: Dream of the Desert, the Middle East’s first five-star luxury train.
Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman and brought to life by Arsenale Group, this exquisite train is more than a mode of transportation, it’s an immersive cultural and sensory journey. Spanning 1,300 kilometers from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, the route unveils the grandeur of Saudi Arabia’s landscapes, from majestic dunes to nature reserves, in a way never experienced before.
As a passionate advocate for design, interiors, and luxury hospitality, I see this train as a statement, a symphony of art, heritage, and craftsmanship set in motion. The interiors, inspired by traditional Arabic storytelling, blend opulent materials with a modern interpretation of Bedouin elegance. Every carriage is a stage where narratives of past and present meet, offering an experience that is as theatrical as it is serene.
This collaboration between Saudi Railway Company, Arsenale Group, and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia marks a significant moment in the luxury travel industry. With 34 high-end suites and 14 carriages, Dream of the Desert is not just a train, it is a symbol of transformation, bringing an era of grandeur to Saudi’s evolving tourism landscape.
As someone deeply engaged in the intersection of luxury interiors, hospitality, and travel, this development speaks to a broader vision of redefining travel as an art form. The Kingdom is not just opening its doors, it is curating an experience, one where the journey itself becomes the destination.
For those who appreciate heritage wrapped in elegance, this train is a passage through time, woven with the soul of the desert.
Photography Arsenale Group
The Luxe Resident 