The Ritz-Carlton Reserve has debuted in the Middle East, located on Ummahat Island amidst the tranquil waters of the Red Sea. This private island retreat sits within the captivating Blue Hole archipelago, where coral reefs lie beneath the surface and the starry sky paints an endless canvas. Nujuma, inspired by the Arabic word for ‘stars’, invites travellers to embark on an unexplored journey to one of the world’s most remote and protected archipelagos. Here, amidst the vast blue expanse, guests are encouraged to explore and immerse themselves in the region’s culture and traditions.
“As more and more travellers seek to discover new corners of the earth, we are thrilled to unveil our new Ritz-Carlton Reserve amidst the natural beauty and stunning setting of the Red Sea,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts. “Nujuma joins a collection of rare Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties around the globe, inviting the most discerning travellers to embark on an exploration where each encounter reveals a deeper connection to the destination. I cannot wait for guests to discover this luxurious private sanctuary and truly transformative experience.”
The Red Sea, one of Saudi Arabia’s luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the country’s west coast, is surrounded by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system with an archipelago of over 90 intact islands. From this enchanting environment, guests can embark on extraordinary snorkelling and diving adventures to discover seldom-visited sites beneath the waves. With vibrant coral reefs that have thrived for over five thousand years, the barrier reef hosts fascinating ecosystems, including over 165 endemic reef fish species, dolphins, sea turtles, rays, and Napoleon wrasse.
The island’s shores are bordered by rich mangroves, known for being one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, and within this lush habitat, visitors may spot a variety of seabirds, marine invertebrates, and guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters, guests can explore the beauty of the mainland through guided trails across the desert dunes.
Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s shell-inspired architecture and elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials in calming tones of the sea and sand, and geometric patterns reminiscent of regional design motifs. Arabic artefacts, traditional ceramics, Saudi-patterned woven rugs, and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftsmanship flow through the canopy-covered interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frames the pathways between pavilions and villas.
Accessible by charter boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 villas over the water and on the beach, offering accommodations from one to three bedrooms, expansive living areas, and private pools with sea views. Guests can marvel at the limitless starry skies from the comfort of their villa through telescopes placed on each terrace. Elevated above the cerulean sea and connected by a raised walkway in a ring shape, the overwater villas offer panoramic views and direct sea access. Set on soft, untouched white sand, the beach villas are secluded retreats flooded with natural light and the refreshing sea breeze. Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, who takes care of every detail and guides guests through all the enriching experiences this destination has to offer.
Opportunities to gain unique insights into Saudi culture, traditions, and the destination are presented by a team of local experts dedicated to preserving and sharing their heritage. Honouring the legacy of nomadic exploration and learning, the Conservation House is an integrated space for creative activities that expand knowledge and foster a sense of community. Through hands-on activities led by experts in sustainability, environment, and culture, guests of all ages can cultivate a deep connection with the destination.
Nujuma’s culinary philosophy is inspired by the Arab tradition of gathering at home to share stories of good fortune, poetry, philosophy, and science. Each of the five dining experiences at the Reserve honours the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region whose lives have been deeply intertwined with the area for over 50 years. Guests are warmly welcomed to Tabrah, a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s house, to share a seafood menu including ‘The Fortunate Catch’, a communal celebration of the daily harvest from the sea that has nourished the fisherman’s family over the years. Jamaa is a relaxed outdoor space serving light dishes prepared in an open kitchen and on a wood-fired grill next to the resort’s outdoor pool and beach, lined with luxurious cabanas.
When the sun sets below the horizon, Maia is an intimate spot for astrology-inspired refreshments prepared by expert mixologists, including ‘Gemini’, a non-alcoholic citrus cocktail named after the constellation, known as al-Taw‘amân in Arabic, which can be seen from Saudi Arabia’s capital throughout the year. Designed to celebrate the wonders of the night sky with elements of telescopes and star designs, the outdoor terrace is a place to look up while Nujuma’s astrologer shares information about the constellation of the night. Inspired by vibrant bazaars, the all-day dining venue, Sita, is a French-style patisserie and Levantine restaurant under three woven wooden pavilions, a design that nods to the tradition of leaf weaving. Guests are greeted by the aroma of freshly baked bread emanating from a traditional clay oven, accompanied by fresh hummus and dishes seasoned with the resort’s extensive spice library.
Neyrah Spa is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. The serene indoor and outdoor oasis invites guests to nourish their bodies and souls through ceremonies and methods from around the world while connecting with regional ingredients, including the enchanting aroma of oud and the peregrine moringa oil from the AlUla region. Wellness experts design bespoke journeys to rebalance and relax, guiding guests through breathing techniques, lunar yoga, and sound therapy. The sea breeze and the gentle sounds of the waves flow through five treatment rooms with sea views and three outdoor treatment cabanas. The space also features vitality and swimming pools, a hammam, and a fitness centre. Designed as a journey, the bespoke treatments encourage guests to reflect on the past, live in the present, and move into the future with clarity and energy.
“With the launch of the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the region, we are opening the doors to an unparalleled destination and inviting the world to discover the Red Sea destination,” said Tony Cóveme, General Manager of Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. “Nujuma is like no other property in the region, a pinnacle of luxury with discovery and sustainability at its core, offering guests a transformative journey to the extraordinary, set against the perfect backdrop of the natural beauty of Ummahat Island. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy an unforgettable exploration of the destination where every moment is infused with wonder and connection.”
