This year marks a new era of ultra-luxury stays on Saudi Arabia’s western shores as The Red Sea regenerative tourism destination expands its offerings.

By May-end, the illustrious Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, will open its doors, joining the elite ranks of just six such reserves worldwide.

Nestled on the untouched Ummahat Islands, Nujuma invites discerning travellers to explore its pristine archipelago, offering unparalleled opportunities for diving and snorkelling in some of the world’s most unspoiled waters.

The Red Sea, a visionary Saudi giga-project by Red Sea Global (RSG), began welcoming its first guests in 2023. Already, the Six Senses Southern Dunes and St. Regis The Red Sea Resort have set new standards in luxury hospitality at the destination. Enhancing accessibility, the Red Sea International Airport now hosts regular weekly flights by Saudia from Riyadh and Jeddah, with international operations also having commenced to Dubai.

A number of new openings and experiences are set for the year, so guests can indulge in the epitome of elegance and discover the untouched beauty of The Red Sea, where every stay promises an extraordinary escape into luxury.

Shebara: The first RSG-owned and operated resort at The Red Sea destination, Shebara will open later this year. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, the island features a spectacular 30m to 40m reef drop-off close to the beach providing the ultimate spot for exploring ocean life. Each space at Shebara has been designed to flow with its environment, with stainless steel villas reflecting the colours of the ocean and sky as they change throughout the day.

Desert Rock: The resort at Desert Rock remains on track to welcome guests later this year. Set in a hidden valley, Desert Rock offers unparalleled exclusive luxury with just 60 keys. With architecture fully integrated into the mountainside, guests can choose from ground level dwellings, crevice hotel suites midway up the ridge, and a select number of rooms built within the rock itself.

Diverse Experiences             

RSG’s new subsidiary brands Akun, Galaxea and WAMA provide guests with incredible opportunities to explore The Red Sea destination’s diverse land and seascapes.

Akun offers land-based adventure activities – for guests of all abilities – including guided tours of historical sites and culinary adventures showcasing the vibrant flavours of Saudi Arabia, as well as outdoor adventures such as mountain, fat tyre and electric biking, hiking through nature trails and desert safaris.

WAMA and Galaxea will deliver experiences above and below water, including diving, snorkeling, kayaking, kite surfing, and sailing. The Red Sea is home to 175 species of corals, 195 species of fish, and protected species like the hawksbill turtle and halavi guitarfish.

RSG has invested in providing an unparalleled guest arrival experience where every detail has been designed for comfort and convenience, says the developer. On arrival at Red Sea International Airport, guests are transferred to their resort via ultra-luxury, electric vehicles. Those staying at The Red Sea’s island resorts can opt for a luxury SAF-powered seaplane transfer, operated by RSG subsidiary Fly Red Sea.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea destination will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, and leisure facilities.