Lilshira
Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve Gains DarkSky Certification for Stargazing Wellness
Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve on Saudi Arabia’s Ummahat Islands has been awarded DarkSky Approved Resort certification, allowing the resort to integrate guided stargazing into its luxury wellness packages. The certification was announced in August 2026 and applies to guests booking the new Celestial Wellness Package.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- DarkSky certification enables guided stargazing as part of the resort’s wellness offering
- Timing
- Certification announced in August 2026
- Who is affected
- Guests booking the Celestial Wellness Package at Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve
The details
- Announced by
- Red Sea Global and DarkSky International
- Takes effect
- August 2026
- New rule
- The resort now meets DarkSky Approved Resort standards, requiring controlled lighting, sky‑darkness measurements and a lighting management plan.
Certification Announcement
On 3 August 2026 Red Sea Global and DarkSky International announced that Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve and Desert Rock received the inaugural DarkSky Approved Resort certification. The award recognises compliance with new standards designed for large luxury resorts.
What the Certification Means
DarkSky certification requires evidence of sky darkness of at least 20.5 magnitudes per square arcsecond, a lighting management plan, and staged compliance targets for existing fixtures. The resort must keep brightness low, use purposeful lighting, and dim or switch off lights when not needed.
- At least 67 % of lighting must be compliant at application, 80 % within two years, and 100 % within five years
- Annual sky measurements and five‑year re‑certification are required
New Guest Experience
The Celestial Wellness Package, listed for stays from 23 June to 31 December 2026, now combines spa treatments, private yoga or Pilates, and guided stargazing sessions. Villas are equipped with telescopes, and guests can enjoy night‑sky activities directly from their private pools or terraces.
- Guided stargazing sessions educate guests about natural darkness and its impact on wildlife
- Lighting design follows five practical principles to protect darkness while ensuring safety
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Bookings made for the Celestial Wellness Package after 23 June 2026 will include guided stargazing sessions
- Guests arriving before the certification announcement may still experience the new lighting standards if the resort has implemented them
Cost and documents
- No additional fees are mentioned for the stargazing component of the package
- Guests do not need to provide extra documentation to access the new wellness activities
What you need to do
- Travelers should verify that their reservation includes the Celestial Wellness Package to enjoy the stargazing experience
- Guests should review the resort’s lighting guidelines, which are now part of the certification, for any night‑time safety information
Who this affects
-
Guests booking the Celestial Wellness Package
The package now incorporates guided stargazing under the DarkSky certification
What to do Ensure the reservation specifies the Celestial Wellness Package to receive the stargazing component
-
Guests staying in private villas
Villas are equipped with telescopes and benefit from the resort’s controlled lighting design
What to do Use the in‑room telescope and follow any night‑time lighting instructions provided by the resort
-
General resort visitors
All public areas now follow DarkSky lighting principles to protect darkness and safety
What to do Follow posted signage regarding pathway lighting and respect any dimming schedules
Frequently asked questions
When did Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve receive DarkSky certification?
Nujuma Ritz‑Carlton Reserve was awarded DarkSky Approved Resort certification in August 2026, announced on 3 August 2026 by Red Sea Global and DarkSky International.
What does DarkSky certification mean for guests?
DarkSky certification ensures the resort uses controlled lighting, measures sky darkness, and offers guided stargazing, creating a darker night sky while maintaining safety for guests.
Is there an extra charge for the stargazing experience?
The source does not mention any additional fee for stargazing; the activity is included in the Celestial Wellness Package offered by the resort.
Which dates can I book the Celestial Wellness Package?
The Celestial Wellness Package is available for stays from 23 June to 31 December 2026, subject to the resort’s booking terms.
Do I need special documents to join the guided stargazing sessions?
No extra documentation is required; guests simply need to have a reservation that includes the Celestial Wellness Package to participate in the guided stargazing.
