Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East was unveiled this week on Ummahat Island in The Red Sea.

Nestled in the Blue Hole cluster of islands, the private island retreat features 63 overwater and beach villas, five culinary experiences, and a spa.

“As more and more travelers 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,” said Jenni Benzaquen, senior vice-president, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bulgari Hotels and Resorts.

Designed by Foster and Partners, Nujuma’s 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 craftsmanship are used throughout the canopied interiors.

The villas, offering one- to three-bedroom accommodation, have spacious living areas, private pools overlooking the sea, and telescopes on their decks for star gazing. Each villa has the services of a dedicated personal host.

Each of Nujuma’s five culinary experiences honors the generations of fishermen from the Umluj region. Tabrah is a modern interpretation of a fisherman’s home. Jamaa is a relaxed alfresco space serving lights dishes prepared in an open kitchen and over a wood-grill fire. Maia is an intimate place serving astrology-inspired refreshments. Sita is a spacious French-style patisserie and a Levantine restaurant under three woven-wood pavilions.

Neyrah Spa offers treatments using regional ingredients. It has five sea-facing treatment rooms and three outdoor treatment cabins as well as vitality and lap pools, a hammam and a fitness center. Wellness experts are on staff to guide guests through breathing techniques, meditation, lunar yoga and sound healing therapy.

“With the launch of the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the region, we are opening the doors to an unparalleled destination and inviting the world to discover The Red Sea destination,” said Tony Coveney, general manager, Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Researve. “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. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy an unforgettable exploration of the destination where every moment is infused with wonder and connection.”