Dream of the Desert to begin operations in 2026, blending opulence with Saudi heritage Deemed the first five-star luxury rail service in the Middle East, designs of the train’s interior are inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture. Saudi Arabia has released designs of a luxury train expected to go operational next year as the country seeks to be a global travel destination. Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale this week unveiled the final designs of the “Dream of the Desert” rail project, the first five-star luxury train in the Middle East. The announcement coincided with the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to the kingdom. The designs mark a stride in implementing an agreement signed last year between SAR and Arsenale. Deemed the first five-star luxury rail service in the Middle East, designs of the train’s interior are inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture. The train is designed by architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman and her studio Culture in Architecture, reflecting a harmonious fusion of modern elegance and Saudi heritage. Inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, the interiors feature refined craftsmanship, with earthy tones, […]