Jumeirah expands into Africa with new island and safari reserve

Jumeirah has announced its entry into the African market with two new exclusive destinations: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa.

Jumeirah Thanda Island is a private, uninhabited island located in the Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, featuring a luxurious villa and various ocean activities. Jumeirah Thanda Safari is set in a prestigious Big Five game reserve in KwaZulu Natal, offering branded residences and plans for a new lodge and tented camp.

Thomas Meier, Chief Operating Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer at Jumeirah, comments: “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. Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari epitomise this strategy.  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."

"With a focus on local culture and conservation, the values of Thanda very much align with our own, and we are immensely proud to continue the great work done to preserve and protect these inspiring destinations for generations to come.  We look forward to welcoming our first guests later this year,” he added further.  

Pierre Delvaux, founding Chief Executive Officer at Thanda Group added, “When our owners Christin and Dan Olofsson of Malmo, Sweden, and I first embarked on this journey in 2002, we envisioned partnering one day with a pioneering global operator whose vision aligned with our own ethos and values, particularly concerning philanthropy and nature conservation. Now, on the 20th anniversary of opening our first lodge, we are thrilled to embark on the next chapter of our journey. It is a true privilege to partner with Jumeirah, and the entire Thanda team is filled with excitement and optimism for what the future holds. Our collective mission with Jumeirah remains to create magic for our guests and members while elevating our offering and guest experiences to new heights.”    

This expansion aligns with Jumeirah's strategy to diversify its portfolio and enhance guest experiences through partnerships that emphasise local culture and conservation. Both properties aim to preserve the environment and support local communities while providing unique luxury experiences.