Review: Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

What we loved: Nujuma a Ritz Carlton Reserve offers a serene and perfectly curated secluded island setting combined with deeply personable staff who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional service. The resort’s architecture and design are rooted in local craft traditions which creates a beautiful cultural aesthetic and the rituals from check in to pre meal moments provide a thoughtful and immersive sense of place.

What we did not love: The absence of a house reef at the resort means that paid excursions are required for snorkelling or diving which feels like a missed opportunity for spontaneous water access. At the time of our stay alcohol was not yet permitted at the resort which limited evening indulgences although we were told this may change in the future.

How to book: This property participates in the Marriott Bonvoy program, with standard room redemptions costing 198,000 points and up per night. This resort participates in the Marriott STARS preferred partner program, so if you are booking a cash rate, reach out to Prince Collection.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – About the Property

The Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand is known for selecting remote natural locations where luxury intimacy and local culture come together. Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve fits this vision perfectly. The resort opened in May 2024 shortly after the nearby St. Regis Red Sea as part of Red Sea Global’s broader tourism development in the region.

The design of Nujuma is inspired by seashells and coastal dunes and the resort makes extensive use of natural materials such as wood, rope, stone, and clay to echo Saudi craft traditions. The result is a refined but immersive resort that feels both contemporary and authentically rooted in its setting.

Location

Nujuma a Ritz Carlton Reserve is located on a private island in the Ummahat Islands off Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast between the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. Guests first arrive at Red Sea International Airport which serves as the main gateway for the region.

From there the typical journey continues with a scenic drive of about 25 minutes across the desert to the marina followed by a boat ride of about 45 minutes out to the island.

Once on the island, guests can explore by foot, buggy, or bicycle along quiet boardwalks and sandy paths while taking in the natural landscaping, mangroves, and uninterrupted views of the sea and sky.

Booking

For our visit we experienced the property on an industry rate. Standard cash pricing for a One Bedroom Beach Villa generally begins at about 9,000 SAR per night before taxes or from around 198,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Having previously loved our stay at Mandapa a Ritz-Carlton Reserve we were very keen to try another Reserve property and the opportunity to visit the Red Sea as an emerging destination added to the appeal.

Pre arrival communication was excellent. Since we began our trip at the St. Regis Red Sea the teams at both properties coordinated a seamless 5-minute boat transfer between the two resorts. They also handled our flight details arrival and departure times and passport and visa information which made the entire journey feel seamless. Transfers to and from the resort are typically included with most cash bookings.

For this stay we used Marriott gift cards that we had purchased at a 20% discount which created an extra layer of savings.

At Prince of Travel we generally value Marriott Bonvoy points at 0.8 (CAD) or 0.6 cents (USD). Using that benchmark a redemption at Nujuma can represent a great value for your points especially when cash rates are high.

Any incidentals beyond our gift cards were charged to the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card for its elevated earning rate at Marriott properties and the ongoing value of its annual Free Night Award.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve participates in the Marriott STARS preferred partner program which you can access through our in house travel agency Prince Collection.

By booking through us you will pay the best available flexible rate in most cases and receive added benefits such as a USD 100 property credit complimentary breakfast for two a one category room upgrade when available early check in and late check out subject to availability along with a special welcome gift and letter.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Check-In Experience

We arrived at Nujuma after a short boat ride from the St. Regis Red Sea. As the boat approached the jetty, staff were already waiting to welcome us with warm greetings, handshakes, and a refreshing welcome drink. The arrival lounge at the dock offered our first glimpse of the resort’s beautiful architecture and gave a small preview of what awaited on the island.

We were introduced to our dedicated host Stefan, who served as our primary contact throughout the stay. We were given a brief tour of the property then brought directly to our villa to complete our check-in. Our keys were in the form of bracelets which were extremely convenient.

Stefan provided his WhatsApp number so that we could reach him at any time. He walked us through the activities on offer for the day and later sent the full weekly schedule which made it very easy for us to plan out our time at the resort.

As a Platinum Elite member we received a warm recognition of status and were presented with the following elite perks:

• Upgrade: We were given a choice between remaining in our originally booked One Bedroom Beach Villa or moving to a One Bedroom Water Villa. We opted to stay in the Beach Villa as we had just stayed in an overwater villa at the St. Regis Red Sea and were advised the outdoor patio was larger at the Beach Villas.
• Welcome amenity: 1000 Bonvoy points were given. A generous platter of fresh fruit, a cake, and a non-alcoholic bottle of bubbly were also awaiting us in our villa.
• Late check out: Flexible departure timing was given based on boat transfer and flight schedules.
• Breakfast: Full breakfast complimentary for all resort guests, so no additional benefit was offered.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – One Bedroom Beach Villa

The One Bedroom Beach Villa is a striking expression of organic architecture and refined comfort. The exterior is shaped to resemble seashells or gently sculpted dunes.

Inside the design continues this theme of soft curves and natural textures. Light beige and cream tones are paired with warm wood and subtle Arabic geometric motifs which appear in wooden screens, rugs, and furniture. The overall effect is modern and minimal yet invites a sense of warmth that suits the island location.

The villa is composed of two main domed spaces connected by a corridor of windows that bring in abundant natural light. One side houses the spacious living area with a smart TV and is furnished with ample seating around a central coffee table.

At the centre stands a telescope which references the name ‘Nujuma’ that is derived from the Arabic word for stars and invites guests to look up at the night sky.

A dinette had a welcome platter of fruit, a birthday cake, and a bottle of non-alcoholic sparkling beverage.

A powder room and compact kitchen are tucked subtly into the design so that they provide convenience without interrupting the visual flow.

The kitchen includes a fridge, stove, oven, sink, and beverage station making it easy to prepare snacks or a simple meal for anyone who brings provisions from the mainland.

The other main dome is dedicated to the bedroom which is centred around a king-sized bed oriented toward the beach and sea.

Built-in seating and closets are integrated into the curved walls and accented by soft ambient lighting. Directly behind the bed is a freestanding bathtub and desk.

The ensuite bathroom features a double vanity, a walk-in shower, and a separate water closet. Both plush and lighter linen robes are provided along with slippers and a beach bag which are thoughtful touches for a coastal stay.

From both the living room and the bedroom large floor to ceiling windows open onto a generous patio that spans the length of the villa. The outdoor area includes cushioned loungers, a dining table, a private plunge pool, and an outdoor shower, as well as direct access to the beach.

Each villa is positioned with natural dunes and planting between them which gives a strong feeling of privacy.

Electronic panels at the villa entrance and bedside control all lighting, curtains, and climate settings, adding to the ease of the space. Paired with its organic architecture and natural materials, the One Bedroom Beach Villa becomes a serene and luxurious sanctuary within the Red Sea region.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Food and Drink

The resort offers three restaurants and a bar although not every venue operates every day. Together they provide a mix of relaxed and refined dining with a consistent emphasis on fresh ingredients and thoughtful service.

Sita is the main restaurant and is named for its six-pavilion layout. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on Mediterranean flavours. Signature items include housemade hummus, fresh baked bread, and a satisfying shawarma platter.

When you arrive for breakfast, as part of Saudi tradition, Arabic coffee is served. Breakfast is fully à la carte with an extensive menu of continental and hot dishes all prepared fresh to order. A particular highlight for us was the service as our server, Yash, quickly learned our preferences and remembered how we liked our coffee and breakfast items each morning.

Jamaa is the beach and poolside restaurant which offers a casual setting with outdoor seating. The menu is international and well-suited to long days by the water. Shisha is also available for guests who wish to linger into the evening.

Tabrah is the resort’s dedicated seafood restaurant and draws inspiration from local fishing traditions. The dishes here were especially memorable and Tabrah became our favourite dining venue at the resort.

Maia is the bar where guests can enjoy curated drinks in a beautifully designed space. During our stay alcohol was not yet available but the non-alcoholic beverages were creative and enjoyable.

Each dinner at the restaurants began with a complimentary welcome drink which added a consistent and gracious touch to the dining experience.

Guests also have the option of dining at the restaurants at the neighbouring St. Regis. We chose to return for an evening to experience their fine dining restaurant and our host Stefan arranged the boat transfer on our behalf. In-villa dining is available as well for those who prefer a more private meal in their own space.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Other Facilities

The facilities at Nujuma are extensive and well aligned with the resort’s focus on wellness, relaxation, and understated luxury.

The Neyrah Spa is a destination in itself with both indoor and outdoor areas that feature traditional motifs in the woodwork lighting and decor.

Inside the spa guests can enjoy a steam room, hot tub, sauna, and a sensory shower experience, as well as a quiet lounge that is ideal for reading or resting. Outside, an inviting vitality pool adds another way to unwind.

There is also a dedicated yoga pavilion where sessions are led by a skilled instructor who also provides classes at the St. Regis Red Sea. Because of the low occupancy during our stay we lucked out and had a private session!

The resort includes a 24-hour gym for guests who wish to maintain a fitness routine. For tennis or padel ball, staff can arrange access to courts at the St. Regis.

The main pool area at Nujuma features a large pool, hot tub, and many loungers and cabanas. The cabanas are particularly appealing with large sunbeds, overhead fans, and attentive service. Staff assist with setting up the space, providing chilled bottled water and even bringing a portable speaker for guests who want to listen to music.

Along the beach loungers are spaced out so that guests can easily find their own quiet spot whether they prefer full sun or shade.

Families are well looked after with a supervised kids club for children aged 4 to 12. The club is an inviting space with indoor tables and chairs, reading nooks, a video game room, and a covered outdoor area with climbing equipment and water play.

Water based activities are a natural emphasis here. Guests receive thirty minutes of complimentary use of kayaks and paddle boards each day. Additional experiences such as snorkelling and diving excursions can be booked at the water activity centre for an extra cost. The island’s network of paths and boardwalks is ideal for walking or cycling for those who wish to explore more of the natural surroundings.

Nujuma is continuing to refine its cultural and nature programs but the resort already offers complimentary experiences such as stargazing sessions, mangrove tours, fitness classes, yoga classes, and talks about Saudi history and culture.

For guests interested in exploring Saudi Arabia’s marine life, history, and heritage through activities guided by expert staff, pay a visit to the resort’s learning hub, The Conservation House. I love the concept of this, but during our visit the activity offerings were limited because a few staff members were away, which meant stargazing and mangrove tours were temporarily suspended.

Sensing our slight disappointment, however, our host Stefan stepped in and provided a personalized mangrove tour himself. Drawing on his background in ecology, he took us on a sunset walk through the mangroves, explaining their importance to the local ecosystem and pointing out some wildlife along the way, like the blue spotted stingrays that we had never seen before.

On the morning of our departure, after breakfast, our server Yash surprised us with a handwritten card filled with thoughtful notes about our time together, along with a small parting gift for each of us. Gestures like these highlight how the staff consistently go above and beyond to make every stay memorable and enjoyable, fully embodying the philosophy of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand.

Conclusion

Nujuma a Ritz Carlton Reserve is a resort where design culture, nature, and luxury come together in a very cohesive way. It is an outstanding choice for couples who want a romantic and secluded escape, travellers who seek quiet and restorative surroundings, and anyone who values thoughtful architecture and genuinely warm service.

The villas feel like private sanctuaries, the staff create a sense of genuine care, and the setting on a private island in the Red Sea delivers a powerful feeling of escape from everyday life. For guests who appreciate such things, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve deserves a prominent place on any future travel list and is worth the splurge.