Junior Travel Awards / 10 February 2026

Winner: Luxe Villa Holidays at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia | Junior Travel Awards 2026

The SILVER winner of Best Luxury Villa Holiday for Families is pure luxury. Read on for the full low-down...

Junior Magazine Junior Travel Awards Winner: Luxe Villa Holidays at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia | Junior Travel Awards 2026

Winner:SILVER Best Luxury Villa Holiday for Families

Who:The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia

What:A private-island sanctuary set within the Red Sea

Why:

Our judges were super impressed with the St. Regis Red Sea Resort,  a private-island sanctuary on Ummahat Island, offering a luxury escape in the pristine waters of the Red Sea. With 90 spacious beachfront and overwater villas featuring private pools, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and dedicated St. Regis butler service, the Junior panel felt that this resort offered families a stand-out experience with attentive staff who give every guest the personal touch, while also allowing families plenty of privacy and relaxation.

Families can explore coral reefs, take part in children’s art sessions, and join culinary workshops, while the Family Traditions programme nurtures curiosity, connection, and shared adventure. Dining celebrates global flavours with local inspiration, and the St. Regis Spa provides a serene retreat for parents who want some serious pampering.

Rooted in the brand’s legacy of impeccable service, the resort ensures every guest – from young explorers to seasoned travellers – is cared for with warmth and attention to detail. This is a family holiday you will definitely return home from feeling relaxed, restored and with a renwed awe for the natural world.

"Perfect clear waters and white sand make this a little slice of paradise and the private villas give families privacy and perhaps most importantly space to spread out."

Florrie Thomas @florriet

"This is a really luxurious trip with amazing facilities, food and beaches."

Laura Coleman @misslauracoleman

Stunning. I love the spacious airy rooms and all the thoughtful spaces created for children. If you can't relax here, you're a lost cause!

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior

What makes it so Special?

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort creates family holidays that are personal, immersive, and unforgettable. Children are welcomed as part of the island family, with St. Regis Butlers anticipating their needs, sparking curiosity, and adding magic to every moment—from villa treasure hunts to favourite snacks. Every detail, from family-focused activities to dining and villa amenities, is designed to inspire, delight, and make children feel valued.

The Family Traditions programme fosters creativity, learning, and discovery, while spacious villas with private pools and child-friendly touches offer comfort and privacy. Flexible dining ensures every family member feels at home. Here, holidays spark joy, togetherness, and adventure, leaving families with memories that last a lifetime.

Junior Magazine Junior Travel Awards Winner: Luxe Villa Holidays at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia | Junior Travel Awards 2026

"The St. Regis legacy of impeccable service. Every guest, from the youngest explorer to
the most seasoned traveller, is cared for with warm hospitality and an attention to detail that transforms family holidays into cherished memories."

Ideal for...

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is a luxury private-island retreat on Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia, offering beachfront and overwater villas with private pools designed for families and adults alike. Combining timeless elegance with bespoke service, the resort’s Family Traditions programme creates meaningful experiences for children, while signature St. Regis Butlers provide personalised care for every guest. Surrounded by pristine coral reefs and turquoise waters, the resort blends privacy, adventure, and refined comfort, making it a destination where well-travelled, experience-driven families can relax, connect, and create unforgettable memories together.

Junior Magazine Junior Travel Awards Winner: Luxe Villa Holidays at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia | Junior Travel Awards 2026
Junior Magazine Junior Travel Awards Winner: Luxe Villa Holidays at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Saudi Arabia | Junior Travel Awards 2026

Junior Fact File

Nightly rates at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort on Ummahat Island start from £2,700; the resort is accessible only by boat or seaplane, with additional transfer costs of approximately SAR 1,322 per adult.