The Shifting Philosophy of Luxury Living at Oystra Al Marjan by Richmind Holding

At Oystra on Al Marjan Island, Richmind Holding, in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, takes this shift into action, and puts sculptural design, coastal serenity and hospitality-led living into their homes. In this conversation, CEO Mohammad Rafiee talks about shaping a new philosophy of ultra luxury that values time, privacy and belonging.

⁠ We are seeing a move away from rigid skyscrapers toward more fluid, sculptural architecture. How does living in a space designed by Zaha Hadid Architects influence a resident’s daily mindset and sense of calm?

Partnering with Zaha Hadid Architects on Oystra allowed us to translate our visionary, sculptural design language into a living experience. Our ‘Art into Living’ philosophy goes beyond aesthetics, it shapes daily life. Living in a fluid, organic space encourages a sense of calm and mental clarity, as the architecture itself interacts with light, wind, and the surrounding sea. Residents experience a home that is simultaneously dynamic and grounding, offering a daily reminder that beauty, flow, and functionality can coexist seamlessly.

Buyers are increasingly choosing coastal destinations over fast-paced city centres. Is this the rise of quiet luxury, and how are you bringing a Mediterranean-meets-Middle East lifestyle to Al Marjan Island?

We are witnessing an unmistakable shift among ultra-luxury buyers toward tranquil coastal environments over city centres. Oystra on Al Marjan Island embodies ‘quiet luxury’, a lifestyle that blends understated elegance with immersive natural surroundings. The project has seen exceptional demand from Europe and other international markets, reflecting how sophisticated buyers increasingly value the Mediterranean-meets-Middle East rhythm: sun, sea and serenity, without compromising world-class design and connectivity.

⁠ The line between a private residence and a five-star resort is fading. Has luxury evolved from ownership to the idea of buying back time through serviced living and curated experiences?

Luxury today is no longer only about owning a beautiful asset, it’s about reclaiming time and enjoying experiences. At Oystra, we integrate hotel-grade services with residential living, including curated amenities, serviced residences, and 24/7 concierge support. From a luxe spa to dedicated wellness pavilions and Ras Al Khaimah’s first 360° infinity pool, we’re giving residents the freedom to focus on life’s meaningful moments, elevating luxury from space to lifestyle.

High-end living can sometimes feel isolating. How do you design shared spaces that encourage connection while still protecting privacy?

Creating communal experiences in ultra-luxury developments requires a careful balance. At Oystra, our 360° infinity pool, branded beach club, and curated leisure facilities are designed to encourage organic social interaction while preserving privacy. These spaces are extensions of the home environment, thoughtfully scaled, visually open, yet discreet, so residents can connect with the community or simply enjoy the surroundings without ever feeling exposed.

Many of your buyers live between global cities. What turns a residence into an emotional anchor rather than just another stop along the way?

For the global citizen, home must offer both permanence and adaptability. At Oystra, signature design elements like the seamless integration of art-driven architecture, world-class amenities, and hospitality-grade curation, transforms a property into an emotional anchor. Whether a buyer is based in London, Shanghai, or Dubai, the development offers lifestyle consistency, and a sense of belonging that resonates across their global journey.