AlUla: AlUla Development Company (UDC), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has announced further details about its upcoming Autograph Collection Hotel project through a recent press release. The company unveiled the design concept for the hotel, named NUMAJ: A Tapestry of the Land, which includes innovative sustainability practices aimed at achieving LEED Gold certification.
According to Saudi Press Agency, NUMAJ is a semi-abstract name inspired by the star system Nu Ursae Majoris, historically associated with AlUla Borealis. This celestial connection underscores AlUla's historical significance as a guiding point for ancient travelers who navigated by the stars. The name NUMAJ is derived from the Arabic phrase "Al Kafzah al Ula," translating to "the first leap."
This announcement comes on the heels of UDC CEO Fabien Toscano's participation in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 held in Dubai. The project is in line with UDC's commitment to sustainable development and includes several design elements targeting LEED Gold certification. These elements feature the use of grey water for irrigation, sourcing local materials, UV-resistance glazing to minimize heat, water-efficient landscaping, and an energy-conscious lighting strategy that adheres to AlUla's Dark Sky policy.
The Autograph Collection Hotel aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the PIF's objectives for sustainable economic diversification. The project is expected to boost AlUla's tourism, real estate, and hospitality sectors while also creating jobs and promoting cultural preservation within the local community.