AlUla Development Company (UDC), a public investment fund entity, has begun constructing the NUMAJ Autograph Collection, a significant project contributing to the development of AlUla. Announced on April 20, 2026, this initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and aims to establish AlUla as a premier global destination.

The groundbreaking ceremony included key attendees such as John Pagano, UDC’s Managing Director, and Abeer AlAkel, CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla. Pagano stated that NUMAJ signifies a “clear step forward” in UDC’s plans to develop high-quality facilities that will elevate AlUla’s attractiveness.

Designed by GioForma, the architecture firm responsible for the iconic Maraya, NUMAJ will be managed by Marriott International under its Autograph Collection Hotels brand. The hotel’s design draws from AlUla’s natural beauty and cultural background, with its name derived from the star system Nu Ursae Majoris, known historically to guide travellers.

This new development promises a curated hospitality experience, combining resort-style living with cultural elements. It will feature five dining options, wellness amenities, as well as business and leisure facilities, with a strong emphasis on sustainability aiming for LEED Gold certification through practices such as greywater reuse and energy-efficient lighting.

As part of UDC’s expanding portfolio, NUMAJ is set to support sustainable tourism and aid economic diversification in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Vision 2030 goals. The hotel is anticipated to open in 2027, reinforcing AlUla’s position as an attractive locale for both visitors and investors.