Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, recently announced that it is expanding into Africa with two new projects in partnership with the Thanda Group, a refined collection of privately owned hospitality experiences. The two hospitality leaders will launch two new iconic destinations in Africa: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa.
These additions to Jumeirah’s portfolio mark its entry into Africa and highlight its continued evolution through the delivery of new destinations that connect people and culture through distinctive and meaningful experiences.
“As we look to the future, our intent for Jumeirah is clear. We want to grow sustainably into new destinations and diversify our portfolio with a focus on properties that offer a distinct proposition and deliver enriching guest experiences rooted in culture and connection,” stated Thomas Meier, chief operating officer and interim CEO at Jumeirah.
Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari will open for bookings from December 2024.
Jumeirah Thanda Island
The Jumeirah Thanda Island is an uninhabited, 5-hectare tropical island in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Located within the protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, the private retreat is accessible via a short helicopter ride from Dar es Salaam or by speedboat from nearby Mafia Island.
The exclusive-use island features a villa with five suites and two traditional Swahili Bandas providing guests direct access to the ocean. The island’s private chef and culinary team will deliver exceptional dining experiences using locally sourced ingredients along the pristine beach.
Embracing the natural rhythms of island life, guests will experience remarkable adventures with their daily boat trips. From swimming with Whale Sharks to diving with turtles, sailing on traditional Arab Dhows to nearby Chole Island, or enjoying bird walks along the island’s white-sand trails, the list of adventures is endless.
“Not only do these exceptional properties mark our first entry into Africa – a market which continues to show strong growth in the luxury travel sector – but they represent a new style of experience for Jumeirah with everything from total exclusivity to the opportunity to experience the wonder of nature at its finest,” added Meier.
Ocean initiatives
Jumeirah Thanda Island will also continue its ocean initiatives including coral reef restoration and a program to protect endangered sea turtles. These initiatives mirror the long-standing marine conservation initiatives Jumeirah has implemented at both Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai, as well as Jumeirah Olhahali Island, Maldives.
Jumeirah will also champion Thanda’s Star for Life community program, an NGO that seeks to upskill, empower, and educate young people in South Africa and on Mafia Island in Tanzania.
Jumeirah Thanda Safari
Nestled in the rich wildlife area of South Africa’s northern KwaZulu Natal (KZN) province, Jumeirah Thanda Safari offers an enriching experience in one of Africa’s most exclusive Big Five nature reserves.
The game reserve spans vast wilderness with a variety of luxury accommodation options including Jumeirah Residences at the Royal Thanda Club, Africa’s most exclusive lifestyle club. Whether seeking adventure or solitude, guests at the Jumeirah Residences enjoy private access to 386 hectares of secure wilderness in addition to a concierge service.
“Our collective mission with Jumeirah remains to create magic for our guests and members while elevating our offering and guest experiences to new heights,” stated Pierre Delvaux, founding CEO at Thanda Group.
Jumeirah Residences will welcome guests from December 2024, with additional purpose-built branded residences available to purchase off-plan. The company also revealed that it plans to introduce a new lodge and an ultra-luxury tented camp by 2027.
Wildlife guides will lead guests on adventures across 16,500 hectares of the private reserve’s plains, valleys, and mountains to immerse visitors in the wonders of African wilderness. Activities also include game drives and bush walks, dining under the stars, sundowners with panoramic views, and a junior ranger course for younger guests. In addition, cultural programs will continue to embrace Zulu culture and support the socio-empowerment of local Zulu communities.
Read: Etihad Airways to double Africa network in 2025, operate 57 weekly flights
Wildlife conservation programs
Jumeirah Thanda Safari will also continue to engage in several critical conservation programs. This includes the flagship Project Rhino KZN, an intensive anti-poaching and conservation collaboration between government, NGO, and private entities in KwaZulu Natal.
The development will also contribute to the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project which aims to increase the population of this critically endangered species in the wild. In addition, Thanda’s flagship CSR project Star for Life, will remain central to Jumeirah’s commitment to investing in the future of young people.
