On the outer edge of Saudi Arabia’s west coast, set on Ummahat Island, a protected stretch of sand and sea only accessible by private boat or seaplane, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residence, introduces a rare new standard for coastal living in the region. An exclusive luxury resort on the Red Sea coast that is set to become a new destination for global tourists, Nujuma is part of a masterplan for the special enterprise zone that includes several other inland developments and an airport, which will serve island resorts across the region.
Designed by Foster + Partners, Nujuma’s sweeping shell-inspired architecture and elegant interiors are crafted with natural materials imbued with calming sea and sand tones, and geometric patterns reminiscent of the region’s design motifs. Arabic artifacts, traditional ceramics, woven Saudi patterned rugs and intricate wall hangings celebrating local craftmanship flow through the canopied interiors. Lush landscaping of indigenous plants elegantly frames the pathways between the pavilioned spaces and villas.
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. Positioned almost at the edge of the Al Wajh lagoon, towards the northwest from the hub island, it frames an exceptionally picturesque body of crystalline sea called the Blue Hole, known for its exquisite hues in the water. Much like a jewel in a necklace, a circular ring of over-water villas connects with two linear islands on either side.
Nujuma offers an architectural dialogue between dune-inspired forms and the textures of the Saudi coastline. Curved silhouettes and organic lines evoke shells, breeze, and salt, all while treading lightly on the land. The island’s shores are fringed by rich mangroves, known to be one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, and within this lush habitat, visitors can spot a variety of sea birds, marine invertebrates and halavi guitarfish. Beyond the turquoise waters, guests can discover the beauty of the coastal mainland through guided trails across majestic desert dunes.
Nujuma offers 63 overwater and beach villas, providing one-to-three-bedroom accommodation, living areas and private pools overlooking the sea. Presented as part of the Red Sea Residences portfolio, this is not a resort with homes. It is a home shaped by nature, designed for those who seek space, serenity, and a deeper relationship with the natural world. In addition to exclusive beach villas, the resort offers other exclusive amenities such as a beach club, a spa and restaurants.
Featuring clean lines, sandy hues and graceful curves that blend seamlessly into its desert and coastal environment, each of the 63 villas and the cluster of public spaces on the main island are housed in a sweep of dome-like pods, their curved exteriors, which are bound by textural rope, inspired by the rounded shape of a closed mussel shell. The interiors feature muted tones and tactile natural materials such as timber and stone, which are embellished with details that highlight Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.
The villas are conceived as a kit of parts – manufactured offsite to minimize disruption – made from prefabricated and sustainable timber with rope cladding to visually blend with the beautiful natural setting. Designed with a light touch approach in mind, the low-density structures are nestled within the landscape. The scheme is respectful of existing habitats, encourages bird nesting, and aims to protect the precious ecology of the islands for future generations.
Inside, homes are layered with neutral tones, organic textures, and understated finishes that reflect regional artistry and the tranquility of island life. Expansive terraces and floor-to-ceiling openings frame the sea, while details such as handwoven rugs and locally inspired ceramics give each space its own rhythm. Residences open directly onto white-sand beaches and uninterrupted views, with private pools and generous indoor-outdoor areas designed for slow living.
According to Foster + Partners, their design for Nujuma and other projects on the Red Sea coast embody a responsible light-touch approach that is integral to sustainable hospitality design – now and in the future. The ambition is always to enrich host communities, address the needs of visitors, and protect the natural environment for generations to come.
