Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has opened its doors, emerging as the latest jewel in Saudi Arabia’s luxury tourism sector, commanding attention with nightly rates beginning at over US$3,400 (SAR 9,250), making it the most premium offering in the region at present.
The resort is only the third to begin trading as part of the Red Sea project, situated on Ummahat island, where the St. Regis Red Sea Resort opened just three months ago. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and an abundance of thriving coral reefs, guests of the island will experience new levels of luxury, marrying the very best of The Red Sea with the incredible natural beauty of the Red Sea coast.
Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodation, spacious living areas and private pools overlooking the sea. Guests can marvel at the limitless starry night skies from the comfort of their villa through telescopes positioned on each deck.
“I am excited to welcome Ritz-Carlton Reserve into the fold of our luxury collection of brands for The Red Sea,” said John Pagano, CEO at The Red Sea Development Company. “Around the world, Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties are synonymous with providing unique luxury experiences and creating personalized meaningful escapes, underpinned by a commitment to sustainable practices.”
Nujuma is designed as an “intimate sanctuary” featuring 63 villas. These accommodations are not mere rooms but encapsulate the essence of seclusion and luxury, with each villa perched above the sea or nestled in the soft white sands. The villas boast panoramic windows, open living spaces, and private sea-view pools, complemented by a telescope for stargazing – an ode to the clear skies under which the resort resides.
Jenni Benzaquen, SVP and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton and The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, said: “Nujuma is the seventh Reserve to join a collection of rare estates worldwide and invites travelers 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 for a truly transformative experience.”
Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa for Marriott International, emphasised the uniqueness of the Reserve’s location. “Perfectly situated on one of the most anticipated regenerative tourism projects in the world, the resort will blend seclusion and sophistication to provide a highly personalized luxury escape,” he noted.
The spa experience at Neyrah Spa, a part of the Nujuma reserve, is crafted to offer transformative wellness journeys. With its treatments that use precious ingredients and embrace simple ceremonies, guests are expected to find a profound connection to nature and themselves within this serene indoor-outdoor space.
In tune with the property’s ethos, the Conservation House will provide an immersive platform for guests to engage with the local culture and environmental conservation efforts. Through hands-on activities on land and at sea, visitors can expect to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Saudi Arabia’s unique ecosystem.
Water sports and exploration are central to the Nujuma experience, with the Galaxea Diving Center offering kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and expeditions to the vibrant coral reefs. This focus on the marine environment echoes through the resort, ensuring that the underwater wonders are as much a part of the guest experience as the luxurious amenities on land.
Nujuma’s culinary philosophy reflects the rich Saudi Arabian tradition of gathering and sharing. Its four dining venues aim to capture the essence of the regional heritage with spaces where meals become a canvas for not just flavours but also for music, poetry, and conversation.
Access to the island is another aspect of the luxury experience, with transportation options including an electric sedan, luxury yacht, or an upgrade to a seaplane. Guests are encouraged to arrange their preferred method of arrival through the hotel’s reservation team.
Nujuma’s debut coincides with a wider ambition under The Red Sea project, which aims to host 50 hotels. This vast enterprise will see the unveiling of 16 hotels by 2025 and an additional 34 before 2030, predominantly managed by international brands. The strategic direction and investment signify Saudi Arabia’s commitment to establishing itself as a premier luxury travel destination capable of rivalling established markets such as Dubai and the Maldives.
With its entry into the high-end sector of The Red Sea project, Nujuma is part of a significant stride towards enriching the region’s hospitality offerings. “As we inch closer to opening our first resorts early next year, this world-class brand is sure to excite and entice future guests,” said John Pagano, CEO at The Red Sea Development Company.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, thus stands as a symbol of the evolution and growth of the luxury travel industry in Saudi Arabia, blending natural wonder with culturally rich experiences, setting a new benchmark for luxury tourism in the region.
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Photos courtesy of Ritz Carlton Reserve
