by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 2:30 PM ET, Tue May 28, 2024
The first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property has arrived in the Middle East.
The new property, named Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is located on Ummahat Island, a private island in the Red Sea.
The exclusive getaway is set amid the Blue Hole cluster of islands, an area known for its coral reefs and for being one of the most secluded and protected archipelagos.
“As more and more travelers 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,” Jenni Benzaquen, SVP The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, said in a statement.
The Red Sea—one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast of the country—is surrounded by the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system with an archipelago of more than 90 untouched islands.
The region’s vibrant coral reefs, which guests can explore via snorkeling or diving excursions, date back more than 5,000 years and the barrier reef is home to ecosystems that include more than 165 endemic reef fish, dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and Napoleon wrasse.
The shores of Ummahat Island, meanwhile, are fringed by mangroves that are home to a variety of sea birds, marine invertebrates, and havali guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters, resort guests can explore the mainland through guided trails across desert dunes.
The remote Ritz-Carlton property, which must be accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, includes 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodations, living areas, and private pools overlooking the sea.
An overwater pool at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Photo Credit: Marriott)
The overwater villas are located above the cerulean-blue sea and are connected by an elevated ring walkway. Beach villas, meanwhile, are secluded retreats that emphasize natural light and the sea’s refreshing breeze.
Each villa comes with a dedicated personal host who takes care of all details and guides guests through all of the experiences the destination has to offer.
Designed by Foster and Partners, the resort’s shell-inspired architecture and interiors are crafted with natural materials imbued with calming sea and sand tones, and geometric patterns reminiscent of the region’s design motifs.
Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs and intricate wall hangings highlighting local craftsmanship are incorporated throughout the interiors.
Opportunity to gain unique insights into Saudi Arabian culture, traditions, and the destination are presented by a team of local experts who are focused on preserving and sharing their heritage.
There's also a Conservation House on the property that's meant to be an integrated space for creative pursuits, as well as a place to expand knowledge and foster a sense of community. Through hands-on activities hosted by resident sustainability, environmental, and cultural experts, guests of all ages can cultivate a connection with the destination.
The resort’s dining philosophy is inspired by the Arabian tradition of gathering at one’s home to share stories of good fortune, poetry, philosophy, and science. There are five culinary experiences at the resort, each created to honor the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region whose lives have been intertwined with the area for more than 50 years.
And what resort would be complete without a luxe spa? The Nujuma includes Neyrah Spa, a facility focused on holistic wellness that's been designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Indoor and outdoor spa areas offer five sea-facing treatment rooms and three outdoor treatment cabins. The space also features vitality and lap pools, a hammam, and a fitness center.
“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,” Tony Coveney, general manager, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, said in a statement. “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.”
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