Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, joins the ranks of luxurious resorts in The Red Sea, further enhancing its status as a sought-after destination for tourism on the west coast of Saudi Arabia. Inspired by the word Nujum, meaning ‘stars’ in Arabic, Nujuma invites travelers to embark on an unchartered journey to one of the world’s most secluded and protected archipelagos.
“No other destination offers desert landscapes connected directly to picturesque marine environments at the scale and beauty of The Red Sea,” said John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global, the developer of The Red Sea. “Guests arriving at Nujuma will be among the first to explore this one-of-a-kind, diverse, and culturally rich region.
“Our guests can start the day with a sunrise hike through mountains and canyons, followed by lunch on a pristine, secluded island and an afternoon of relaxing spa treatments. In the evening, they can unwind under our magnificent dark skies and hear stories of ancient pilgrims and traders who once walked these shores, guided by these same stars.”
The new resort is the third to welcome guests to The Red Sea and the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the region
Nujuma, designed by Foster + Partners, showcases a captivating shell-inspired architecture and refined interiors that feature natural materials in tranquil sea and sand shades, along with geometric patterns that evoke the region’s distinctive design elements. Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs, and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftmanship flow through the canopied interiors. The pathways between the pavilion spaces and villas are beautifully adorned with lush landscaping, showcasing indigenous plants.
Nestled within this vibrant ecosystem, visitors can observe a diverse array of sea birds, marine invertebrates, and halavi guitarfish, all thriving within the rich mangroves that line the island’s shores. Beyond the turquoise waters, guests can discover the beauty of the coastal mainland through guided trails across majestic desert dunes.
Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 over-water and beach villas
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.”
Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma features 63 over-water and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodation, spacious living areas, and private pools overlooking the sea. Through the telescopes provided on every deck, guests can enjoy the breathtaking view of the endless starry night skies from their villa.
Perched above the cerulean-blue sea and connected by an elevated ring walkway, the over-water villas offer panoramic views and direct access to the sea. Nestled on undisturbed soft white sand, the beach villas are secluded retreats flooded with natural light and the sea’s refreshing breeze. Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, who will take care of every detail and guide guests through all the enriching experiences this destination offers.
“Our guests can start the day with a sunrise hike through mountains and canyons”
The Red Sea is carefully designed to cater to affluent travelers, from honeymooners and adventure seekers to wellness enthusiasts, families, and more. The destination is at the forefront of the global transition towards regenerative tourism – going beyond sustainability to have a regenerative impact on the environment, society, and the economy.
This includes being off-grid, powered by sunlight day and night, made possible by 760,000 solar panels and one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities at 1,300 MWh. Over five million plants, shrubs, and trees have been grown to not only beautify the destination but also create new thriving habitats, as well as an additional three million mangrove seedlings against an ambitious target of 50 million by 2030.
“The Red Sea is a truly extraordinary destination, made all the more remarkable because we have chosen to develop and operate it with regeneration at the core. This means by visiting The Red Sea, our guests are playing an active role in protecting and enhancing the destination when they choose us,” concluded Pagano.