UAE is advancing its efforts to boost tourism with the introduction of rail excursions. Similar to the renowned Orient Express, Etihad Rail’s new luxury train cars seek to usher in a new golden age of rail travel in the United Arab Emirates. Etihad Rail has collaborated with the Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale to implement “a luxury train experience that pays homage to Emirati culture and heritage.” The luxurious train will travel throughout the United Arab Emirates, passing through Mezeira’a and along the Liwa Desert and its well-known oasis.

Arsenale has previously worked on another luxury railway, Saudi Arabia’s The Dream of the Desert project. Etihad Rail’s chief executive officer, Shadi Malak, stated, “Our partnership with Arsenale demonstrates Etihad Rail’s commitment to driving economic and social growth in the UAE through the National Rail Network.” He added, “By introducing a world-class luxury train experience to the region, we are contributing to the growth of the UAE’s tourism industry.” Furthermore, we will be able to display the country’s rich history and natural beauty to international tourists.”

The luxury cruise service will be wholly customized, with 15 carriages featuring Emirati influences and unmatched Italian craftsmanship. Paolo Barletta, the chief executive officer of Arsenale SpA, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Etihad Rail on a unique project that promotes the discovery of a magical and exciting territory outside of the renowned destinations of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.”The railway cruise is the present and the future of tourism, and Arsenale intends to make it available in the world’s most attractive locations, introducing this new, fascinating, and environmentally-friendly mode of travel. This partnership demonstrates that passion knows no bounds and that there are no obstacles that can prevent the desire to go beyond the imaginable.”