Dubai-based luxury hotel operator Jumeirah has announced a new partnership with Thanda Group, marking its first venture into Africa.

Thanda Group, renowned for its high-end, privately owned hospitality experiences in Africa, has partnered with Jumeirah to rebrand two of its existing properties as Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari.

Situated in the protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve in Tanzania, Jumeirah Thanda Island comprises an immersive, exclusive-use villa, while Jumeirah Thanda Safari is found in one of South Africa’s most luxurious private safari destinations featuring branded residences and an exclusive member’s club.

With reservations launching this month, both locations will offer distinctive wellness programming blending Western healing techniques with ancient Zulu practices.

Levelling up

This expansion brings Jumeirah’s global portfolio to 28 properties across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia, aligning with its Mission 2030 strategy unveiled in June 2023.

In an exclusive interview with Spa Business, Jumeirah’s VP of wellbeing, Niamh O’Connell, emphasised the brand’s focus on strategic diversification and expansion into new markets.

Upcoming destinations include Bali, the Maldives, China, the UK (London), Italy (Capri), Spain (Mallorca) and Switzerland (Geneva).

Thomas Meier, COO and interim CEO at Jumeirah, said: “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."

*More about Thanda GroupThanda Group started with the vision of its Swedish-born founders and owners, Christin and Dan Olofsson, who had a compelling desire to become part of Africa and make a longstanding commitment to it.

The group encompasses Thanda Safari, Thanda Island and Thanda Classic Cruise, along with the Royal Thanda Club, offering real estate and lifestyle experiences. Thanda is deeply committed to conservation, education and community partnerships across Africa.