Island Escapes: A guide to Saudi's mid-sea getaways

To those in the know, the Kingdom is a haven for idyllic island escapes with colourful coral reefs, sparkling crystal clear waters and of course luxury resorts

Sultan AlQahtani

10 July 23

Red Sea Resort: Shura Island

The Farasan Islands archipelago has long had local – and now increasingly global – appeal, but Saudi is home to a number of equally idyllic islands that epitomise escapism.

As a matter of fact, the Kingdom counts around 1300 of them. From pristine waters to scenic landscapes, each island boasts a kaleidoscope of experiences for every traveller's taste.

The Red Sea: For Elusive Escapists

Situated along the Kingdom’s west coast, The Red Sea Project is a luxurious regenerative tourism destination spanning over 28,000 sq km, boasting beaches, islands, volcanoes, and cultural sites. This upcoming destination is set to offer visitors boutique escapes amidst natural simplicity with its 50 hotels and 1,000 residences, and its own international airport by 2030.

Here, we look at two of its highly anticipated islands: Shura Island and Ummhat.

Shura Island

Designed as the project's main hub, Shura Island stands our with it's dolphin-like shape.

The island's design concept, known as Coral Bloom, was created by leading architects Foster + Partners. One of the 92 islands in the archipelago, Shura offers stunning views and an abundance of native flora and fauna.

Scheduled to welcome guests in 2024, the island will feature top-tier hotels and resorts such as Edition, InterContinental, Jumeirah, and Grand Hyatt, as well as an array of experiences and facilities, including a championship golf course, marina, and beach club.

Ummhat

Boasting two resorts, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, travellers can expect the best in luxury at Ummahat. Surrounded by clear waters and coral reefs, visitors will revel in an experience that combines the best of the project and the natural beauty of the coast.

At The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, a water sports centre will offer activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking through mangrove forests, complemented by world-class dining and wellness facilities. Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve will focus on diving, providing a state-of-the-art centre for undersea exploration, as well as lessons, diving excursions, and snorkelling adventures.

Ummluj: For Nature Enthusiasts

Located in Saudi's Tabuk region, Umluj is often referred to as the "Maldives of Saudi Arabia," and for good reason. It attracts vacationers with its powdery white sands, tropical landscape, and biodiversity, and its shallow shores are ideal for those looking to dip their toes in the Red Sea.

Exploring its waters reveals a world of marine life and coral reefs featuring an impressive variety of coral species, surpassing even the Caribbean reefs. Umluj is also known as the habitat of dugongs – seagrass-eating mammals.

Additionally, there are around 100 islands around Umluj, accessible by boat trips that include visits to Jabal Hassan Island, Libana Islet, and Um Sahar.

Umm Al-Qamari: For Curious Explorers

Located a 45-minute boat ride from Al Qunfudhah, Umm AlQamari comprises two smaller islands known as Umm AlQamari Al-Braniah and Umm Al-Qamari Al-Fuqaniah. The island’s most distinct feature is perhaps it's reef limestone, emerging some three meters above the sea.

Umm Al-Qamari is also known for its diverse birdlife, including the European turtle birds. In fact, since 1977, it has been designated as a local wildlife reserve, offering a sanctuary to migratory birds during their annual February journey.

Today, visitors flock to Umm Al-Qamari to witness birds such as pelicans, herons, and Eurasian collared doves, and to explore the island’s marine life.