The Major Tourism Projects in the Middle East: From Luxury Trains to Exclusive Islands

The Middle East is turning itself as one of the most exciting travel regions on the planet. Beyond its ancient souks and golden deserts, massive new projects are reshaping how we experience culture, nature and luxury. Together these mega-projects tell a bigger story: by 2030, it will be home to luxury trains, futuristic cities, pristine island resorts and world-class hubs. Then, why wait? Let's look at the headline projects, their locations, timelines and why they are worth adding to your bucket list.

1. NEOM: The City of the Future

Location: Northwestern Saudi Arabia (NEOM region).

Launch timeline: Rolling out through the 2020s (first openings mid-decade)

Why: NEOM isn’t just a city, it is a collection of jaw-dropping projects. NEOM is Saudi Arabia’s boldest vision, a $500 billion mega-city rising in the kingdom’s northwest. More than a single city, it is a collection of revolutionary projects, including The Alaine, a 170 km-long car-free vertical city, Sindalah Island with luxury resorts and marinas, Trojena for skiing in the desert, and Oxagon, a floating industrial city. For travelers, it means one thing: ultra modern design meets adventure in the untouched landscape of the Red Sea and desert mountains. 

2. The Red Sea Project

Location: Saudi Arabia’s western coast

Launch timeline: First phase 2024–2025, full completion later this decade

Why: The Red Sea Project is one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious luxury tourism developments designed to showcase the natural beauty of the kingdom’s western coastline. Covering 90 untouched islands, desert dunes, and volcanic formations. Planned as a carbon neutral and regenerative tourism project; resorts, luxury villas and marine and eco-adventures taking place around snorkeling, scuba diving and sand dunes. The first hotels opened in 2024 and will finish at full completion in 2030. 

3. Amaala

Location: Red Sea coast, Saudi Arabia

Launch timeline: First phase around 2025, with full buildout later in the decade

Why: It was branded as the “ Riviera of the Middle East,” Amaala mixes wellness art and ultra-luxury. Guests can expect marina villages, exclusive yachting escapes and spa retreats. And I can say it is perfect for you, who want their vacation to feel restorative and private with a touch of glam. 

4. Qiddiya Entertainment City

Location: Just outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Launch timeline: Opening stages from 2025 onward

Why: If you’re traveling with kids then, Qiddiya will be the region’s answer to Orlando. Having Six Flags theme park, waterparks, sports arenas, and cultural spaces, it’s designed as a playground for all ages.

5. Diriyah: The Birthplace of the Saudi Kingdom

Location: Riyadh outskirts, Saudi Arabia

Launch timeline: Major sites opening through 2024–2026

Why: Do you know the Diriyah is a  UNESCO World Heritage site with mudbrick palaces, restored heritage quarters and new world-class museums. And for Culture lovers, this is the best spot to visit.  Add boutique hotels and traditional markets, and you’ve got a trip that feels both historic and fresh.

6. Dubai Islands

Location: Dubai, UAE

Launch timeline: Phased openings through the 2020s

Why: Dubai Islands is a new group of man-made islands off the Dubai coastline, meant to extend the lifestyle of the city. The project spans five islands and will host luxury resorts, world-class hotels, marine facilities, beach clubs, wellness centers and cultural facilities. And also combines leisure, retail and residential spaces.  

7. Lusail City, Qatar

Location: Just north of Doha

Launch timeline: Already developing, with new cultural sites coming 2024–2026

Why: Known together with hosting the FIFA World Cup Final Lusail is Qatar's modern marvel. The city features sleek marinas, high-end shopping, and cultural projects like the forthcoming Lusail Museum. It seems custom-built for those travelling that love the balance of history with futuristic design.

8. Dream of the Desert: Luxury Trains

Location: Saudi Arabia (routes through desert and heritage sites)

Launch timeline: Launching mid-2020s

Why: Rail travel is making a comeback, but with a luxury twist. The “Dream of the Desert” project introduces high-end trains that glide through Saudi’s dramatic landscapes, offering fine dining and curated cultural stops. It’s slow travel, Middle Eastern style.

The Middle East is entering a new phase of travel. If you have ever dreamt of swimming in crystal-clear water, walking around grand palaces, or being one of the first luxury train passengers to take a journey across the desert, get ready for a new time of adventure and opportunities in the next few years. Don’t just read the future of travel be part of it. Book your tickets early to secure your place in these groundbreaking destinations and be among the first to experience the Middle East’s most ambitious tourism projects. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the rail project in the Middle East?

A. It’s the launch of luxury tourist trains, like Dream of the Desert in Saudi Arabia, designed to showcase culture and landscapes in style.

Q. Which country is launching the Dream of the Desert luxury train in the Middle East?

A. Saudi Arabia is introducing it as part of its big tourism push.

Q. Which luxury train was made specially for promotion of tourism?

A. The Dream of the Desert itself was created to boost high-end tourism and highlight Saudi heritage.

Q. Which is the first super luxury train in the Middle East?

A. The Dream of the Desert will be the region’s first super luxury train when it launches.