Arsenale, Italy’s leading company in high-end rail hospitality, has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) for the development of the Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury train made in Italy, set to operate in Saudi Arabia starting in 2026.
The agreement was formalized during the opening day of TOURISM 2025 in Riyadh, marking a major milestone in the development of this prestigious travel experience.
The agreement establishes a strategic framework to support the financing for the development of the project, as well as contributing to its global positioning, marking a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s evolution as a global destination for experiential and sustainable tourism.
“Our partnership with Arsenale marks a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey to redefine global luxury tourism. Dream of the Desert is more than a world-class travel experience, it is a bridge between cultures, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage through the elegance of Italian craftsmanship. At TDF, we are proud to enable pioneering projects like this, which bring innovation, sustainability, and investment into the tourism sector while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a distinctive and inspiring destination for discerning travelers worldwide.”
Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale, said that, “With Dream of the Desert, the first ultra-luxury Made in Italy train in Saudi Arabia, we reaffirm the tangible commitment of Italian enterprises in promoting a model of excellence grounded in craftsmanship, design, and elite hospitality.”
“Thanks to the support and financing provided by the Tourism Development Fund, this visionary project takes shape as a symbol of the strong partnership between Italy and Saudi Arabia. The MoU signed during TOURISE 2025 lays the foundation for a long-term collaboration focused on innovation, culture, and territorial enhancement, redefining the future of experiential travel in the Kingdom,” Barletta added.
Arsenale’s Dream of the Desert
Dream of the Desert will feature 33 luxurious cabins designed to host up to 66 passengers, combining the highest standards of Italian design and craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology and sustainable innovation.
The train will travel along an extraordinary 1,300-kilometer route from Riyadh to the north of the country, unveiling the Kingdom’s hidden natural and cultural treasures through an immersive journey that blends elegance, comfort, and discovery.
