Saudi Arabia’s first ultra-luxury desert train now has a price, a route and a start date. The Dream of the Desert train has officially opened bookings, with the first departures from Riyadh scheduled for October 2027. Fares start at SAR 86,250 per couple for a two-night trip, roughly AED 84,500.
That is a serious amount for two nights, so the real question is whether it is worth it. Here is what the Dream of the Desert train includes, how the two routes compare, and what UAE residents should know before booking.
Quick answer: Dream of the Desert is a luxury sleeper train from Riyadh to northern Saudi Arabia. It launches with 24 suites, a dining car and a Majlis lounge car. Prices start from SAR 86,250 per couple, per suite, for a two-night journey, VAT included, and the first trips depart in October 2027.
Dream of the Desert train at a glance
| Detail | What we know |
|---|---|
| Developer | Arsenale, the Italian luxury rail company, with the Saudi Tourism Authority and partners |
| Departs from | Riyadh |
| First departures | October 2027 |
| Starting price | SAR 86,250 per couple, per suite, two nights, VAT included |
| Suites | 24 suite cabins in the first phase |
| Shared spaces | Dining car and a Majlis car |
| Routes | The Desert Kingdoms and Shadows of Aja |
The details come from the booking announcement at World Travel Market in London, as reported by Adnkronos.
What does the price include?
The starting fare covers more than the bed. According to the operator, it includes your private suite, meals on board and at the destinations, and all the signature experiences built into the itinerary. In other words, it is closer to an all-inclusive tour than a train ticket.
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Broken down, the cheapest trip works out at about SAR 21,500 per person, per night. However, flights to Riyadh, visas and any extra nights in the city sit outside that figure.
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The two Dream of the Desert routes compared
The Desert Kingdoms: four days, three nights
This longer route explores Al Jouf and Hail. The highlight is the Legends of Marid gala dinner at the historic Marid Castle in Dumat Al-Jandal, with storytelling, music, light shows and a candlelit dinner inspired by local food. The trip then continues into the Aja mountains, known for their red and purple granite, with Arabian horses, poetry and music around the fire.
Shadows of Aja: three days, two nights
The shorter route runs through Hail and Al Qassim and focuses on the wilder side of the north. Guests travel by off-road vehicle to a private desert area in the Aja mountains, with horses, Saudi riders, art and music, followed by an outdoor dinner under the stars. This is the route that matches the two-night starting price.
What is it like on board?
With only 24 suites in its first phase, the train is small and personal by design. Guests move between their private suites, the dining car and the Majlis car, a lounge inspired by the Saudi tradition of gathering and hospitality. Meanwhile, the menus focus on regional flavours.
Raffaele Breschi, CEO of Arsenale International, described it as “a new way of experiencing and discovering Saudi Arabia”, combining rail travel, hospitality and culture.
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How UAE residents can book
- Book through the official channels: reservations are open to travellers and travel advisors through the Dream of the Desert website.
- Getting there: journeys start in Riyadh, which is a short flight from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Visas: check whether you are eligible for a Saudi tourist e-visa as a UAE resident before you book.
- Timing: first departures are in October 2027, the start of the cooler season in northern Saudi Arabia.
Read More: Top Cruises to Europe from UAE: Your Complete Guide
Pro Tip: With just 24 suites per departure, the first trips will sell out fast. If you are seriously interested, register early and ask about the exact October 2027 dates before you book flights.
Our Take
Dream of the Desert is not for everyone, and it is not trying to be. What makes it interesting is where it goes. Al Jouf, Hail and the Aja mountains are places most UAE residents have never seen, and the itineraries centre on experiences you could not easily arrange yourself. For a milestone trip, it is one of the most original luxury experiences coming to the Gulf.
FAQs
How much is the Dream of the Desert train?
Fares start from SAR 86,250 per couple, per suite, for a two-night trip, VAT included. That is about AED 84,500.
When does the Dream of the Desert train start?
The first departures are set for October 2027.
Where does the Dream of the Desert train go?
It departs from Riyadh and travels to northern Saudi Arabia, including Al Jouf, Hail and Al Qassim.
How many suites does the train have?
The first phase has 24 suite cabins, plus a dining car and a Majlis car.
What is included in the price?
The private suite, meals on board and at the destinations, and the signature experiences on the itinerary.
