Ritz-Carlton Reserve opens its first Middle East property on the Red Sea

Nujuma to offer luxury, sustainability, and cultural immersion in a secluded Red Sea retreat

Ritz-Carlton Reserve has opened its first Middle East property, Nujuma, on the private Ummahat Island in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. This exclusive retreat, nestled in the Blue Hole cluster of islands, provides a luxurious and transformative experience for discerning travellers while also honouring the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

“Nujuma, inspired by the Arabic word for stars, invites travellers to explore one of the world’s most secluded and protected archipelagos,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts. “We’re thrilled to reveal our newest Ritz-Carlton Reserve in such a stunning setting, offering guests a unique journey of exploration and connection to the destination.”

Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma features 63 overwater and beach villas, each offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodation with spacious living areas and private pools. The villas, accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, provide panoramic views of the sea and are connected by elevated walkways or nestled on pristine sandy beaches. Each villa includes a dedicated personal host to cater to guests’ needs and enhance their stay.

The Red Sea location boasts the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, offering extraordinary snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. The reef is home to vibrant coral ecosystems, endemic reef fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and more. The island’s mangroves and coastal mainland also provide rich habitats for seabirds and marine life, which guests can explore through guided trails and activities.

Nujuma’s architectural design incorporates natural materials and calming sea and sand tones, reflecting the region’s traditional motifs. The resort’s interiors are adorned with Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, and woven Saudi patterned rugs, celebrating local craftsmanship. Lush landscaping with indigenous plants frames the pathways between pavilion spaces and villas.

The resort features five distinct dining experiences inspired by Arabian culinary traditions. Tabrah, a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s home, offers seafood specialities, while Jamaa serves light dishes by the pool and beach. Maia, an intimate space for astrology-inspired refreshments, provides a unique evening experience under the stars. Sita, an all-day dining venue, combines a French-style patisserie with Levantine cuisine, featuring freshly baked bread and a vast spice library.

Nujuma also emphasises holistic wellness with the Neyrah Spa, which offers bespoke treatments using regional ingredients like oud and moringa peregrine tree oil. The spa includes sea-facing treatment rooms, outdoor treatment cabins, vitality and lap pools, a hammam, and a fitness centre. Wellness experts guide guests through meditation, lunar yoga, and sound healing therapy.

Tony Coveney, General Manager of Nujuma, described the resort as “a pinnacle of luxury with discovery and sustainability at its core.” He added, “We look forward to welcoming guests to this extraordinary destination, where every moment is infused with wonder and connection.”