The Riyadh Metro Project and the Dream of the Desert Train have emerged among the world’s highly-anticipated transportation projects in 2025, according to CNN. These two projects have gained global prominence owing to their unique designs and outstanding nature.
The two projects are part of Saudi Arabia’s developmental infrastructure projects, further underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to modernization and development under the transformative Saudi Vision 2030.
Riyadh Metro: Architectural Marvel
The CNN highlighted the Riyadh Metro Project among the world’s top 11 architecture projects in 2025. Although the official launch of the project was in November 2024, the project has become fully operational in January 2025.
In addition to transforming transportation landscape in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, the Riyadh Metro Project stands out with its spectacular architectural design. Several world-class firms have collaborated in designing the 85-station metro network, turning it into an architectural wonder. These included Zaha Hadid Architects and German firm Gerber Architekten among others.
Unique Designs
The Riyadh Metro Project includes 4 main stations that serve as connectivity hubs for a seamless travel experience: Qasr Al-Hokm District Station; King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Metro Station; Western Metro Station; and STC Station. The design of these stations intends to provide the maximum level of comfort and safety to passengers.
The stations are fully-equipped with air-conditioners, information systems, and internet service, in addition to shops and car parks. Furthermore, each of these main stations offers a variety of services such as parking spaces, ticket outlets, shops and customer services offices.
Qasr Al-Hokm Station
Qasr Al-Hokm, designed by Norwegian firm Snøhetta, is one of the most celebrated stations, with its unparalleled architectural design. The station’s design reflects Riyadh’s ongoing transformation.
Qasr Al-Hokm station has a captivating stainless-steel canopy. The large polished canopy acts as a visual link connecting the station’s levels, channels natural light to the station, and provides shade to the surrounding areas. Moreover, the underground station features an accessible garden where passengers can relax while waiting for their train.
Dream of the Desert Train
The second flagship project highlighted by CNN is the Dream of the Desert Train. It is a luxury railway project that aims to offer a fascinating journey amid the stunning desert and mountain landscapes of Saudi Arabia. The Dream of the Desert Train is one of the much-awaited railway projects in 2025.
Set to start its first trip in November 2025, the Dream of the Desert Train will consist of 41 ultra-luxurious cabins that can accommodate up to 82 passengers. Traveling a distance of about 1,300 kilometers, the luxury train will be the first to offer “rail cruising” across Saudi Arabia in amazing journeys that travel from Riyadh through Hail, and end in the northern city of Al-Qurayyat, near the Jordanian border.
The Dream of the Desert Train is the result of a productive collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and the Italian Arsenale Group, in a $53mn deal. The Italian company, which established the Orient Express-La Dolce Vita, says the project will “redefine luxury travel with an array of exquisite amenities and personalized services.”
Exclusive Travel Experience
The Dream of the Desert Train will provide a lavish travel experience for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Passengers are invited to unmatched 1 to 2-night train cruises across the Kingdom’s breathtaking landscapes.
From the awe-inspiring peaks and mountains to the natural wonders of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve, the railway project will offer an unparalleled travel experience. Moreover, the journey will enable passengers to explore the rich history and authentic culture of Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, the train will boost passenger’s experience with luxury amenities and services, including a fine dining experience, offering a blend of international and local Saudi cuisines made by world-class chefs.
The Dream of the Desert Train is expected to be a hot spot for celebrities and high-ranking personalities from around the world. It also emerges as a competitor to similar projects such as Orient Express – La Dolce Vita in Italy, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, which travels from London to Venice, or Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu.
