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Meet Neema: Sharjah Safari's newborn African Savannah elephant

Meet Neema: Sharjah Safari's newborn African Savannah elephant

What's On18-04-2025

A little wonder with a mighty presence…
Sharjah Safari just got a little bit wilder – in the best way possible. The African Savannah Elephant family has welcomed a brand-new baby girl, and she's already stealing hearts. Her name? Neema – a Swahili word meaning 'grace' or 'blessing' – and it couldn't be more fitting. Who is Neema?
Born right here at Sharjah Safari, Neema is the newest member of the elephant herd and a shining example of the park's ongoing commitment to conservation. Her arrival is a big moment – not just for her elephant family, but for all of us watching from the outside. She lives in a habitat designed to mirror the wild – wide, open spaces, plenty of mud baths, and all the room she needs to grow, play, and be an elephant. About African Savannah elephants Common name: African Savannah Elephant
Scientific name: Loxodonta africana
Diet: Strictly plant-based (think grass, leaves, bark)
Size: Up to 24 feet long and 13 feet tall
Weight: Up to 7 tons
Lifespan: Can reach 70 years in the wild
They're the largest land animals on Earth – and also among the most intelligent, social, and emotionally complex. What makes Sharjah Safari special
It's not a zoo – and that's the point. Sharjah Safari was built to offer something entirely different: space, scale, and a sense of the wild. Sharjah Safari is the largest safari park outside of Africa and was created with one big goal: to offer a true-to-life safari experience while supporting serious conservation work. The park spans over 800 hectares and is home to more than 120 species. Here, animals roam in open habitats that reflect their native homes, and visitors get to witness the wild – up close, responsibly, and with purpose.
Also read
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Neema isn't just a baby elephant – she's a symbol of what can happen when conservation is done right. Her birth is a result of years of planning, research, and care. And for visitors, she's a rare chance to see something truly special: a new life beginning in a place built to protect it.
Sharjah Safari, Al Bridi, Sharjah. sharjahsafari.ae.@ shjsafari
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Meet Neema: Sharjah Safari's newborn African Savannah elephant
Meet Neema: Sharjah Safari's newborn African Savannah elephant

What's On

time18-04-2025

  • What's On

Meet Neema: Sharjah Safari's newborn African Savannah elephant

A little wonder with a mighty presence… Sharjah Safari just got a little bit wilder – in the best way possible. The African Savannah Elephant family has welcomed a brand-new baby girl, and she's already stealing hearts. Her name? Neema – a Swahili word meaning 'grace' or 'blessing' – and it couldn't be more fitting. Who is Neema? Born right here at Sharjah Safari, Neema is the newest member of the elephant herd and a shining example of the park's ongoing commitment to conservation. Her arrival is a big moment – not just for her elephant family, but for all of us watching from the outside. She lives in a habitat designed to mirror the wild – wide, open spaces, plenty of mud baths, and all the room she needs to grow, play, and be an elephant. About African Savannah elephants Common name: African Savannah Elephant Scientific name: Loxodonta africana Diet: Strictly plant-based (think grass, leaves, bark) Size: Up to 24 feet long and 13 feet tall Weight: Up to 7 tons Lifespan: Can reach 70 years in the wild They're the largest land animals on Earth – and also among the most intelligent, social, and emotionally complex. What makes Sharjah Safari special It's not a zoo – and that's the point. Sharjah Safari was built to offer something entirely different: space, scale, and a sense of the wild. Sharjah Safari is the largest safari park outside of Africa and was created with one big goal: to offer a true-to-life safari experience while supporting serious conservation work. The park spans over 800 hectares and is home to more than 120 species. Here, animals roam in open habitats that reflect their native homes, and visitors get to witness the wild – up close, responsibly, and with purpose. Also read Last chance: 11 green spots you can visit in the UAE before summer hits Top outdoor attractions to visit in Dubai before summer hits Why this matters Neema isn't just a baby elephant – she's a symbol of what can happen when conservation is done right. Her birth is a result of years of planning, research, and care. And for visitors, she's a rare chance to see something truly special: a new life beginning in a place built to protect it. Sharjah Safari, Al Bridi, Sharjah. shjsafari > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

Jumeirah, Thanda Group introduce luxury resorts in Tanzania, South Africa
Jumeirah, Thanda Group introduce luxury resorts in Tanzania, South Africa

Gulf Business

time04-12-2024

  • Gulf Business

Jumeirah, Thanda Group introduce luxury resorts in Tanzania, South Africa

Images: Supplied Jumeirah Group has unveiled a partnership with the Thanda Group, a renowned collection of privately owned luxury properties, to introduce two exclusive new destinations in Africa: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa. The new properties, slated to open in late 2024, mark Jumeirah's first ventures into the African market, The two destinations – Jumeirah Thanda Island, located within Tanzania's protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, and Jumeirah Thanda Safari, set in one of South Africa's most prestigious Big Five game reserves – will offer a distinct blend of exclusivity, cultural immersion, and sustainability, in line with Jumeirah's ethos of delivering meaningful, transformative guest experiences. These luxury retreats embody the core values of the Thanda brand, with the name 'Thanda' meaning 'love' in Zulu, reflecting deep-rooted connections to the local communities and environments of both locations. The island retreat and safari lodge also highlight the brand's continued evolution in offering curated, culturally rich experiences for travellers. Jumeirah expands to Africa '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,' he said. A private island escape Tanzania's Jumeirah Thanda Island is set to become one of the most exclusive and immersive luxury retreats in the Indian Ocean. The five-hectare uninhabited island, located within the Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, can only be accessed by helicopter from Dar es Salaam or by speedboat from Mafia Island. The island will offer an exclusive-use villa featuring five suites, along with two traditional Swahili Bandas offering direct access to the ocean. The retreat will feature exceptional dining experiences curated by a private chef and culinary team using locally sourced ingredients. Guests will also have the opportunity to engage in a range of water-based adventures, including swimming with whale sharks, diving with turtles, and sailing on traditional Arab dhows to nearby Chole Island. The UAE-based hospitality group will support marine stewardship initiatives such as coral reef restoration and sea turtle protection. The property will also support Thanda's 'Star for Life' programme, an NGO dedicated to empowering young people in South Africa and Tanzania. Jumeirah Thanda Safari highlights In South Africa, the resort will offer a luxurious, immersive experience in one of Africa's oldest Big Five game reserves in the northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province. The vast, 16,500-hectare reserve features a variety of luxury accommodations, including Jumeirah Residences at the Royal Thanda Club, a private lifestyle club offering privileged access to the reserve's pristine wilderness. The safari property will cater to both adventure seekers and those seeking solitude, with a dedicated concierge service to accommodate every guest's needs. Jumeirah Residences will open in December, with additional branded residences available for purchase off-plan. A new lodge and ultra-luxury tented camp are also planned to open by 2027. The reserve will offer a variety of activities, from game drives and bush walks to cultural programmes embracing Zulu heritage. Guests will also have the opportunity to take part in a junior ranger course, learning about the region's unique wildlife. In addition to its focus on wildlife experiences, the resort will continue the critical conservation work undertaken by the Thanda Foundation, including collaborations with government, NGOs, and private entities on initiatives like Project Rhino KZN, an anti-poaching programme, and the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project aimed at increasing the population of critically endangered rhinos. Shared values Pierre Delvaux, the founding CEO of Thanda Group, expressed excitement about the new partnership, marking a milestone in the journey that began in 2002. 'When our owners Christin and Dan Olofsson of Malmo, Sweden, and I first embarked on this journey, we envisioned partnering one day with a pioneering global operator whose vision aligned with our ethos and values, particularly concerning philanthropy and nature conservation,' Delvaux said. '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,' he added. Both properties are set to open for bookings in December.

Jumeirah expands to Africa with exclusive island, safari
Jumeirah expands to Africa with exclusive island, safari

Zawya

time02-12-2024

  • Zawya

Jumeirah expands to Africa with exclusive island, safari

Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, unveils a unique partnership with the Thanda Group, a refined collection of privately owned hospitality experiences, for the introduction of two new iconic destinations: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania, and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa. Situated in the protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve in Tanzania, Jumeirah Thanda Island comprises an immersive, exclusive-use villa, while Jumeirah Thanda Safari lives in one of South Africa's most luxurious private safari destinations featuring branded residences, and an exclusive member's club. These additions to Jumeirah's portfolio mark the global hospitality leader's entry into Africa and illustrates its continued evolution through the delivery of destinations curated to inspire, enhanced by partnerships deeply aligned with Jumeirah's innate approach of connecting people and culture, through distinctive and meaningful experiences. The name "Thanda" itself – meaning 'love' in Zulu – encapsulates the core values of these distinct destinations that already showcase deep rooted connections with local communities and the environment. This first of its kind private island and safari offering for Jumeirah is infused with the essence of Tanzania's historical ties to Arabian Hospitality dating back to ancient times; when seafarers on trade routes were received with generous fireside welcomes to exchange the knowledge and stories that have helped shape the culture of the Middle East region today. The safari – meaning 'journey' in Swahili – carries on into South Africa, to one of Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserves, once the ancient hunting grounds of the Zulu kings. 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.' Pierre Delvaux, founding Chief Executive Officer at Thanda Group adds: '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.' JUMEIRAH THANDA ISLAND 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, itself also accessed by a brief flight from Dar es Salaam. Personifying beach house romance and barefoot luxury, the exclusive-use island features an extraordinary villa with five suites and two traditional Swahili Bandas providing guests direct access to the ocean. The island's private chef and dedicated culinary team will deliver exceptional dining experiences using locally sourced ingredients in the most idyllic and intimate of settings along the pristine beach. Embracing the natural rhythms of island life, guests will experience unmatched adventure with their own dedicated boatman guiding daily 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 is endless. Jumeirah Thanda Island will also continue its attention on ocean stewardship initiatives including coral reef restoration and a programme to protect endangered sea turtles – mirroring long-standing marine conservation initiatives Jumeirah has in place 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 programme, an NGO committed to upskilling, empowering, and educating 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, rolling hills of untouched wilderness, dotted 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 privileged private access to 386 hectares of secure, access-controlled wilderness, along with a dedicated concierge service to cater to every need and desire. Jumeirah Residences will welcome guests from December 2024, with additional purpose-built branded residences available to purchase off plan from this date. There are further plans to introduce a new lodge and an ultra-luxury tented camp by 2027. Dedicated teams of 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 may include game drives and bush walks, dining under the stars, sundowners with panoramic views, and a junior ranger course for younger guests while bespoke cultural programmes will continue to embrace Zulu culture and support the socio-empowerment of local Zulu communities. As part of the established CSR initiatives of the Thanda Foundation Trust, and Jumeirah's commitment to being a good neighbour with conscious consideration to the places it calls home, Jumeirah Thanda Safari will continue to be engaged in several critical conservation programmes. This includes the flagship Project Rhino KZN, an intensive anti-poaching and conservation collaboration between government, NGO and private entities in KwaZulu Natal and the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, which looks 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 our commitment to investing in the future of young people. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (

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