The St. Regis Red Sea Resort: A New Luxury Island Getaway in Saudi Arabia

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has unveiled The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, a new luxury retreat on the pristine Ummahat Island in Saudi Arabia's Al Wajh Lagoon. This resort, marking the first private island to open in The Red Sea, promises a unique blend of avant-garde architecture, sustainable design, and bespoke service. The resort is not just a luxurious haven but also a testament to Saudi Arabia's emerging status as a sought-after leisure destination.

According to Marriott, the opening of the St. The Regis Red Sea Resort marks a milestone, introducing an iconic island in the Red Sea region of Saudi Arabia, renowned for its undiscovered beauty. According to Jenny Benzaquen, senior vice president and global brand leader of The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, this project aims to transform the Red Sea into a leading holiday destination.

Accessible exclusively by chartered boat or seaplane from the Red Sea International Airport, the resort features 90 opulent villas, each boasting a private pool, sundeck, and outdoor shower. These accommodations range from one to four bedrooms, offering guests a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living with uninterrupted sea views.

The resort's architectural and interior design is a celebration of the local environment. Kengo Kuma's architectural vision and Kristina Zanic Consultants' interior designs pay homage to the surrounding coral reefs and sand dunes, using natural fabrics and a desert-inspired color palette. The Dune Villas and Coral Villas, distinct in their design, offer guests a luxurious and private retreat.

The resort's culinary offerings are as diverse as they are exquisite, with five distinct dining venues. These range from Gishiki 45’s Japanese-inspired dishes to Tilina’s overwater grill. The St. Regis Bar, inspired by the King Cole Bar at The St. Regis New York, offers a unique “Coral Mary" mocktail, capturing the local essence in its taste and presentation.

Wellness and recreation are integral to the resort experience. The St. Regis Spa offers signature treatments and wellness journeys, while the fitness and wellness activities include a gym, pools, and tennis courts. The resort also caters to families with the Little Treasures Children’s Club and an outdoor adventure area.

The Red Sea's natural beauty and biodiversity are at the heart of the resort's experience. Guests can explore coral reefs, scuba diving sites, and engage in various water sports. Excursions to the mainland offer a glimpse into the region's dormant volcanoes, heritage sites, and desert dunes.

Tony Coveney, General Manager of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, highlights the resort's alignment with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision of sustainable luxury. The resort is powered by renewable energy and emphasizes waste reduction, recycling, and LEED platinum certification for its interiors. Collaborations with KAUST and VAARST, along with a mangrove nursery and landscape efforts, underscore the resort's commitment to ecological sustainability and marine conservation.

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort not only offers a luxurious escape but also serves as a beacon of sustainable luxury and a testament to Saudi Arabia's vision for the future. Its unique offerings and commitment to environmental stewardship make it an ideal destination for experienced personal travelers, particularly those who value cultural richness, environmental consciousness, and unparalleled luxury.