Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Is Now Open for Guests in Saudi Arabia

The ultra-exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand has expanded its footprint with the opening of a brand-new property in Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia.

Let’s take a look at this new ultra-luxurious resort and how you can book it.

First Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resort in the Middle East

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has opened in Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea with just 63 overwater and beach villas. All villas feature private pools with views of the Red Sea, telescopes to peer at the sky at night, and a private attendant.

Amenities include 5 dining outlets, a spa, a fitness center, lap pools, and a hammam.

Guests will need to get to the remote resort by yacht but can upgrade to a seaplane if requested.

“Nujuma joins a collection of rare Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates around the world, inviting the most discerning travelers to embark on a journey of exploration where every encounter reveals a deeper connection to the destination,” said Jenni Benzaquen, senior vice president of the Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts brands.

How To Book Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Nujuma is now open and is participating in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, which means you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points at the resort.

Given this is an ultra-luxury property, you should be prepared to fork over a substantial amount of cash or Marriott Bonvoy points to stay here.

Cash rates start at a whopping $2,800+ per night for dates this fall (prices below are shown in Saudi Riyals), and prices appear to remain more or less steady throughout the year.

If you have a ton of Marriott Bonvoy points stashed, this is the time to use them. Award nights start at 191,000 per night for dates throughout the fall and winter. We value Marriott Bonvoy points at 0.7 cents apiece, meaning 191,000 points are worth about $1,337, a significant savings when compared to the base cash rates.

Luckily, it’s fairly easy to earn Marriott Bonvoy points. American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards points both transfer to Marriott at a 1:1 ratio. Sometimes these programs will offer limited-time transfer bonuses, yielding you more points.

Plus, opening a Marriott Bonvoy credit card will earn you a sizable welcome bonus and some form of elite status.

Final Thoughts

Marriott’s exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand has expanded to Saudi Arabia in the form of a new resort on a private island in the Red Sea. While prices at Nujuma aren’t cheap, this is an excellent chance to use Marriott Bonvoy points to get incredible value!