Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the first of its brand in the Middle East, opened today on Ummahat Island in the Red Sea off Saudi Arabia’s western coast.
“As more and more travellers look to discover new corners of the earth, we are thrilled to reveal our newest Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located amongst 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 estates around the world, inviting the most discerning travellers to embark on a journey of exploration where every 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 region boasts the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system spanning over 90 untouched islands. Nujuma provides extraordinary snorkeling and diving adventures to uncover seldom-visited coral reefs teeming with over 165 endemic fish species, dolphins, turtles, and more. The island’s mangrove forests are home to diverse birdlife and marine life like guitarfish.
Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s architecture features sweeping pavilions with shell-inspired forms crafted from natural materials evoking sea and sand tones. The 63 overwater and beachfront villas offer one to three bedrooms, living areas, private pools and telescope-equipped decks for stargazing.
“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 Coveney, Nujuma GM.
“Nujuma is unlike any other property in the region, a pinnacle of luxury with discovery and sustainability at its core, offering guests a transformative journey into the extraordinary set within the picture-perfect backdrop of Ummahat Island’s natural beauty.”
The resort’s dining celebrates the local fishermen’s generational ties to the sea. At Tabrah, guests share a communal “Luckiest Catch” seafood feast. Outdoor venues like Jamaa serve wood-fired dishes beside the resort pool and beach cabanas.
As night falls, Maia lounge offers astrology-themed cocktails while the resident astrologer explains the evening’s visible constellations from the open-air terrace. The Sita restaurant evokes a vibrant bazaar with freshly baked flatbreads and regional fare.
Neyrah Spa blends global wellness practices with ingredients like regionally-sourced oud and moringa oils. Treatment journeys are designed to rebalance the self through methods like lunar yoga and sound healing within the sea-facing sanctuary.
Other immersive experiences await at the Conservation House, where guests learn about sustainability, environment and culture through hands-on activities led by local experts.
Nujuma joins Marriott’s prestigious collection of Ritz-Carlton Reserves located in stunning remote destinations worldwide. Nightly rates start at $2,190. The launch marks a milestone as the brand’s first ultra-luxury private island resort in the Middle East.
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