Dream Of The Desert: Saudi Arabia Unveils First Luxury Train

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 29, 2025

Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italian hospitality firm Arsenale have revealed the final designs for the Dream of the Desert, the Kingdom’s first five-star luxury train. This marks a major step in redefining rail travel in the region, blending modern elegance with Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. The announcement coincides with the visit of Italy’s Prime Minister to the Kingdom.

The project is part of an agreement between SAR and Arsenale, announced last year, and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of enhancing luxury tourism. The train’s interiors are inspired by the desert landscape and traditional Saudi architecture, featuring earthy tones, intricate patterns, and influences from iconic landmarks such as Madain Saleh and Hail.

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Exclusive Onboard Experience

Dream of the Desert consists of 14 carriages housing 34 luxury suites, designed to provide an intimate, high-end travel experience. The train is envisioned as a moving five-star destination, setting new standards for premium rail travel. Departing from Riyadh, it will traverse SAR’s Northern Railway network, offering breathtaking views of Saudi Arabia’s heritage and natural wonders.

A Tribute To Saudi Culture

The train’s interiors are designed to reflect Saudi Arabia’s cultural essence, with reception lounges inspired by traditional majlis settings, featuring hand-carved wooden elements and geometric patterns. Dining will blend heritage and sophistication, offering menus crafted in collaboration with top chefs. Passengers will also experience the Kingdom’s artistic heritage through curated art pieces and photography displayed along the train’s corridors.

Dream of the Desert is set to launch operations by Q3 2026, with booking details to be announced soon. This pioneering project is poised to redefine luxury travel in Saudi Arabia, offering an exclusive and culturally immersive journey unlike any other in the region.

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Cyprus Services Sector Shows Robust Performance In 2025 As Tourism, Digital Innovation, And Shipping Surge

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 6, 2026

The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEV) reported growth across Cyprus’ services sector in 2025, with increases recorded in tourism, professional services and administrative activities. Data show continued expansion across multiple sub-sectors, reinforcing the role of services in economic output and employment.

Service Sector Leadership

Accommodation and food services grew by 9.5%, while administrative and support activities increased by 7.4%. Professional, scientific and technical activities rose by 4.6%, followed by information and communication at 4.3%. Transport and storage recorded growth of 2.8%, while real estate activity increased by 0.4%. These figures indicate broad-based expansion across service industries.

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A Remarkable Tourism Surge

Tourist arrivals reached 4,534,073 in 2025, marking a 12.2% increase year-on-year. December arrivals totaled 156,959, up 18% compared with the same period a year earlier. Tourism continues to support revenue generation and seasonal demand across the economy. Growth in visitor numbers contributes to activity in hospitality and related sectors.

Driving Digital Transformation

OEV is supporting digital adoption through initiatives such as the DiGiNN Cyprus Digital Innovation Hub. The program focuses on improving business processes, skills development and technology integration. Additional efforts include the establishment of a Digital Transformation and Innovation Committee and international engagement through business missions. These actions support the adoption of digital tools across sectors.

Resilient Shipping Sector

Shipping accounted for about 7% of Cyprus’s GDP in 2025, remaining a key component of the economy. The Cyprus Registry recorded its highest tonnage in 20 years, with an increase of nearly 20%. Fleet growth strengthens Cyprus’ position within European Union shipping registries and global maritime markets. The sector continues to contribute to economic stability.

Strengthening The Economic Foundation

OEV is organizing conferences, workshops and exhibitions to support business development across sectors. These initiatives focus on improving operational practices and industry collaboration. Continued investment in services and digital infrastructure is expected to support economic performance.

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