UAE's first Ritz-Carlton Reserve is coming to Ramhan Island in Abu Dhabi

One of only eight in the world, the ultra-luxurious resort is set to open in 2029

The Abu Dhabi outpost will feature 50 villas. Photo: Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Ramhan Island, a new luxury development off the Abu Dhabi coast, is to welcome a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the first in the UAE and only the eighth in the world.

Set to open in 2029, the villa-only venue will feature 50 properties of between one and four bedrooms, as well as a range of leisure amenities and several culinary outlets. The development is the result of a partnership between Marriott International and Ramhan developer Eagle Hills.

The property will offer an “intimate and transformative experience in an ultra-luxury setting”, says Sandeep Walia, the Middle East chief operating officer of Marriott International, adding that the demand for exclusive experiences remains strong.

The announcement comes as Ramhan Island takes shape.

Only a small section of the vast 400-hectare island is currently open for visitors looking to purchase property, which will comprise 1,800 stand-alone villas, 900 marina residences and prime retail spots by developer Eagle Hills. The first wave of handovers is expected in 2026.

Among the biggest sales pitch for Ramhan Island is its connection to nature, which includes potentially seeing dolphins, sea turtles and birds in the surrounding water. This also fits well with the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand – which promises “a complete escape to the unexpected, centred around human connection and that brings together elements of the local culture, heritage and environment”.

Only seven such properties are currently operational in the world. These include one in Krabi, the resort town in southern Thailand known for its distinct limestone karsts and mangrove forest; and an alpine resort in Hokkaido, Japan.

While the planned Ramhan property is the first in the UAE, it is not the first in the Middle East. In May, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve opened in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea.

Room rates start at 9,913 riyals ($2,640), making it the most expensive hotel in the region. Marriott International also announced a second Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Saudi Arabia that will be built in Trojena, the mountain destination of Neom.

“Created for the most discerning travellers seeking a distinct and luxurious escape, reserve properties are tucked away in hand-picked corners of the world,” says the hotel. Service is described as “highly responsive and individualised” in these ultra-luxurious properties.

“As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the UAE, it will set new standards of excellence,” says Eagle Hills chairman Mohamed Alabbar.