Prepare to be whisked away to a realm of unrivaled luxury at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, where nature and opulence dance in perfect harmony. This majestic sanctuary, set on the pristine shores of Ummahat Island off the Red Sea coast, invites guests to discover a hidden, untouched paradise, where every detail whispers eco-conscious elegance.
Red Sea Global developed the property as part of the new Red Sea destination, encompassing a variety of nature-bound hospitality offerings on natural islands, with architecture by Kengo Kuma and interior design and art curation by Kristina Zanic Consultants.
Just a 45-minute boat ride from the shore, this enchanting haven feels like a true escape from the everyday world. Having opened on 7 January 2024, the resort offers 90 stunning beach and overwater villas, four exquisite dining venues, and expansive wellness facilities, inviting guests to indulge in an extraordinary experience.
This enchanting retreat reimagines the famed St. Regis experience within a captivating island resort setting. The interior design crafts a distinct identity for the property, narrating the tale of the area’s natural splendor and offering an exquisite journey into the world of relaxed ‘barefoot luxury’.
Coral-shaped embossed designs decorate the bedroom walls
The very architecture and interiors of this retreat narrate the enchanting tale of picturesque sand dunes, vibrant coral reefs, and the mesmerizing diversity of marine life. Each element evokes a profound sense of place, inviting guests to forge a deep connection with their surroundings. Nestled along the shoreline, the Dune Villas seamlessly blend with the natural curves of the sand dunes, while the overwater Coral Villas, with their spiral seashell-inspired designs, hover gracefully above the shimmering sea.
The design narrative was inspired by the movement of the wind
Where Time Stands Still, and Luxury Unfolds
The design narrative was inspired by the movement of the wind through the island and the forms it leaves in the sand and sea. Soft curves and spiral motifs weave through the interiors, amplifying the distinctive architecture and crafting dynamic spaces that transcend the ordinary box-shaped hotel room. Each element breathes life into the story of wind and waves, creating an experience as fluid and captivating as the island itself.
Natural tactile materials and finishes were meticulously chosen for their sustainability and compatibility with the region’s climate, while a neutral desert-inspired palette is lifted by hues from the local marine life.
Interior elements are mostly bespoke, with a lot of research and experimentation done to develop custom finishes and patterns that reflect the narrative and give the resort an identity of its own.
The resort is open and spacious, with indoor areas effortlessly merging with the outdoors. Meticulously positioned, every element captures the breathtaking views, immersing guests in a serene, natural paradise that soothes the soul and enchants the senses.
Instead of opting for flat ceilings which are simpler to execute but detract from the architectural vision, the design team chose to fully embrace curves and designed undulating ceilings with varying heights. The curves of external walls continue in the sinuous internal walls and in the fluid spatial layouts and organic forms of furnishings.
Coral-shaped embossed designs decorate the bedroom walls, while irregular hexagonal floor tiles echo the shell of the native Green Turtle. Details such as marine-inspired bronze door handles, books on the biodiversity of the Red Sea, and beach-style macrame art, root the property further in its locale.
Art pieces are plastic-free and use only natural materials, including sculptural and embroidered fabric wall hangings and art. Everything is hand embellished, and the subtle patterns in the art reflect the island wind narrative. Accessories include custom-glazed ceramic pieces that are reflective of the local sea life.
Among the highlights is a bespoke mural in the St. Regis Bar, vividly portraying the vibrant underwater marine life. The Japanese restaurant, Gishiki 45, boasts a sculptural glass counter reminiscent of a nearby natural marine cavern. In the all-day-dining restaurant, Nesma, textured walls are adorned with delicate mangrove leaves, while The St. Regis Spa walls whisper with subtle henna patterns, adding to the enchanting ambiance.
As part of the developer’s regenerative tourism approach and commitment to sustainability, the resort epitomizes environmental sensitivity in its design and build, offering barefoot luxury that works in harmony with its natural setting.
The resort operates on 100% renewable energy
Embrace Tranquility, Elevate Your Senses
The interior design has been developed under LEED platinum certification guidelines. The architecture maximizes natural light and ventilation while minimizing environmental footprint through low-impact materials.
The resort focuses on preserving natural surroundings and biodiversity. Innovative coral regeneration and propagation programs are in place, and a mangrove nursery has been introduced to complement the natural species.
The resort operates on 100% renewable energy, with waste reduction, recycling, and a plastic-free environment integral to daily operations. Guests are transported in ‘clean’ vehicles, including hydrogen-powered seaplanes and electric cars. The destination aims to become the world’s largest certified Dark Sky Reserve, kept free of artificial light pollution.
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort stands as the ultimate epitome of luxury, a retreat where abundance meets untouched natural beauty. Here, every detail is a masterstroke of elegance, designed to enchant and indulge. Whether you seek serene relaxation or a captivating adventure, this extraordinary sanctuary promises an unforgettable experience.