Fascinating journey: Saudi Arabia to launch world's first luxury train across the desert in 2025

Saudi Arabia continues to develop tourism and has announced the launch of the Desert Dream luxury train. This ambitious project, worth £43 million, was developed jointly by the Saudi Arabian Railways (SAR) and the Italian hotel company Arsenale Group.

The train is planned to travel 800 miles across the desert. According to the Express, the new luxury train will be able to reach a speed of 186 miles per hour.

The new Desert Dream train will connect the Saudi capital, Riyadh, with the picturesque city of Al-Qurayyat, just 19 miles from the border with Jordan.

Travellers are promised unforgettable views from the windows of the train, with stops in Al Qasim, Hail and Al Jufa. This exclusive cruise is available for booking for one or two nights, and the cosy cars are designed for a maximum of 82 passengers in 40 cabins.

It is reported that the cars will be designed in Italy, where they will be adapted to the style of Saudi Arabia and local traditions, creating a unique atmosphere of luxury and comfort for all travellers.

According to forecasts, the first train is expected to start running in the summer of 2025.

According to SAR CEO Bashar AlMalik, Desert Dream will allow Saudis and tourists to explore more of the country.

This is the first service of its kind in Saudi Arabia and more high-speed services are expected to come to Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, the kingdom announced that it intends to expand its infrastructure to implement the Vision 2030 project.

The programme, announced by the Saudi government in 2016, aims to reform the country's economy, public sector and society in line with the vision of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. Last year, investments were announced to help transform Saudi Arabia into a tourist destination, including the construction of hotels and resorts across the kingdom.