Today marked the unveiling of Nujuma, the inaugural Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, situated on Ummahat Island within the tranquil waters of the Red Sea. Nestled amidst the captivating Blue Hole cluster of islands, where vibrant coral reefs thrive beneath the surface and the celestial canopy above paints an endless tapestry of stars, Nujuma invites travelers to embark on an uncharted journey to one of the world’s most secluded and protected archipelagos. Here, amid the azure expanse, guests are encouraged to explore and immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture and traditions.
The Red Sea, renowned as one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast, boasts the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, encompassing an archipelago of over 90 pristine islands. From this enchanting setting, guests can embark on extraordinary snorkeling and scuba diving adventures to uncover seldom-visited sites beneath the waves. Teeming with vibrant coral reefs that have thrived for millennia, the barrier reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including over 165 endemic reef fish, dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and Napoleon wrasse.
The island’s shores are fringed by rich mangroves, known to be one of the most productive ecosystems globally, where visitors can spot a variety of sea birds, marine invertebrates, and havali guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters, guests can discover the beauty of the coastal mainland through guided trails across majestic desert dunes.
Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s architecture draws inspiration from sweeping shell motifs, while its elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials in calming sea and sand tones, adorned with geometric patterns reminiscent of the region’s design motifs. Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs, and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftsmanship adorn the canopied interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frames the pathways between pavilioned spaces and villas.
Accessible by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodations, spacious living areas, and private pools overlooking the sea. Each villa is equipped with telescopes positioned on the deck for guests to marvel at the limitless starry night skies. Perched above the cerulean-blue sea and connected by an elevated ring walkway, the overwater villas offer panoramic views and direct access to the sea, while the beach villas provide secluded retreats flooded with natural light and refreshing sea breezes. Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, ensuring guests’ every need is met throughout their stay.
Nujuma offers guests a unique opportunity to gain insights into Saudi Arabian culture, traditions, and the destination itself, through a team of local experts dedicated to preserving and sharing their heritage. The Conservation House serves as an integrated space for creative pursuits, expanding knowledge, and fostering a sense of community through hands-on activities hosted by resident sustainability, environmental, and cultural experts.
The dining philosophy at Nujuma is inspired by the Arabian tradition of gathering to share stories, poetry, philosophy, and science. Each of the Reserve’s five culinary experiences pays homage to the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region, offering seafood specialties and other delights in settings that evoke the region’s rich maritime heritage.
As the sun sets, Maia provides an intimate setting for astrology-inspired refreshments, while Neyrah Spa offers a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness, utilizing regional ingredients and offering bespoke treatments to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit amidst the serene backdrop of the Red Sea.