The milestone was marked during a site visit attended by John Pagano, Managing Director of UDC, and Abeer AlAkel, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla, alongside other senior representatives.
John Pagano stated: “NUMAJ marks a clear step forward in our delivery agenda. As we move into construction, our focus is on executing high-quality, investment-ready developments that strengthen AlUla’s positioning, while shaping distinctive hospitality experiences that enhance its long-term appeal as a global destination and a vibrant community.”
The start of construction signals the transition of the project from concept to implementation, reinforcing UDC’s role in advancing AlUla’s masterplan through the delivery of hospitality and tourism assets in collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla.
NUMAJ will feature 250 rooms and is scheduled to open in 2027. The property is being developed by AlUla Development Company and will be operated by Marriott International under the Autograph Collection Hotels brand.
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| John Pagano, Managing Director of UDC, and Abeer AlAkel, CEO of RCU, reviewing the NUMAJ architectural model during a site visit in AlUla. |
The project has been designed by GioForma, with a concept inspired by AlUla’s natural environment, cultural heritage and celestial history. The name “NUMAJ” is derived from the star system Nu Ursae Majoris, historically associated with the region as a navigational reference for ancient travellers.
The development will include five dining venues, wellness facilities and integrated business and leisure spaces, aiming to offer a hospitality experience aligned with the destination’s identity.
The project is designed with sustainability considerations, targeting LEED Gold certification. Planned features include greywater reuse for irrigation, the use of locally sourced materials, UV-resistant glazing, water-efficient landscaping and energy-conscious lighting aligned with AlUla’s Dark Sky policy.
NUMAJ forms part of UDC’s broader portfolio aimed at positioning AlUla as a global destination for tourism, investment and residential development, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 through initiatives focused on sustainable tourism and economic diversification.
Tags: AlUla Development Company (UDC) Autograph Collection AluUla Marriott International John Pagano
