Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has launched on Saudi Arabia's Ummahat Island in The Red Sea, which is part of one of the most secluded, protected archipelagos on the planet, located in the Blue Hole island cluster.

The first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, Nujuma is inspired by the meaning of "stars" in Arabic. It alludes to the canopy of stars visible in the unpolluted night sky above the island, and guest experience of being immersed in the untapped natural wonders of the Red Sea region, as well as Saudi Arabian culture.

The Red Sea to the west coast of Saudia Arabia is home to the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system, with an archipelago of more than 90 untouched islands. The barrier reef's ecosystems include dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, Napoleon wrasse and more than 165 endemic reef fish.

Nujuma offers the chance for snorkelling and scuba diving explorations to seldom-visited sites under the sea, and to coral reefs that have existed for five thousand years.

Meanwhile, Ummahat Island's shores are lined with lush mangroves, one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, home to sea birds, marine invertebrates and halavi guitarfish. As well as bird-spotting expeditions, guests can explore the island's coastal mainland through guided trails across its majestic desert dunes.

“As more and more travellers 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,” says Jenni Benzaquen, senior vice-president of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bulgari Hotels and Resorts. “Nujuma joins a collection of rare Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates around the world, inviting the most discerning travellers to embark on a journey of exploration where every encounter reveals a deeper connection to the destination.”Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s sweeping shell-inspired architecture and elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials and infused with calming sea and sand tones, as well as geometric patterns reminiscent of Middle Eastern design motifs.

Arabic artefacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftmanship flow through the canopied interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frame the pathways between the pavilioned spaces and villas.

Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, Nujuma has 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedroom accommodation and private pools overlooking the sea. Guests can stargaze from the comfort of their villa through telescopes on their terrace.

Connected by an elevated ring walkway, the overwater villas offer panoramic views and direct access to the sea. Meanwhile, the beach villas built upon white sand are flooded with natural light. Each villa enjoys the services of a dedicated personal host, who can arrange experiences and activities.Guests staying at Nujuma have the chance to gain insights into Saudi Arabian culture and traditions. Honouring the legacy of nomadic exploration and learning, the resort's Conservation House is a space where they can enjoy activities and experiences hosted by resident sustainability, environmental, and cultural experts, and deepen their connection with the destination.

Each of Nujuma's dining experiences celebrate Arabian culture and honour the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region whose lives have been deeply intertwined with the area. Tabrah seafood restaurant is a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s home. Jamaa is a relaxed al fresco space serving light dishes prepared over a wood-fire grill.

Maia is an intimate place for astrology-inspired drinks prepared by expert mixologists, including ‘Gemini’, a citrus mocktail named after the constellation, known as al-Taw‘amân in Arabic, which can be seen from Saudi Arabia’s capital all year. The open-air terrace is a place to gaze at the night sky while Nujuma’s astrologer shares insights into the evening’s constellation.Inspired by vibrant bazaars, all-day dining venue, Sita, is a French-style patisserie and a Levantine restaurant under three woven-wood pavilions, a design nod to the tradition of leaf weaving. Bread is baked in a traditional clay oven, and dishes are seasoned from the resort's vast spice library.

Nujuma's Neyrah Spa incorporates regional ingredients into its holistic treatments, including the scent of oud and moringa peregrina tree oil. Wellness experts design bespoke wellness journeys for each guest to re-balance and relax, guiding them through breathing techniques, meditation, lunar yoga and sound healing therapy.

There are five sea-facing treatment rooms and three outdoor treatment cabins, as well as vitality and lap pools, a hammam and a fitness centre.

Tony Coveney, general manager of Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, says: “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."