For business travellers seeking absolute privacy, uninterrupted focus, and a setting that feels almost otherworldly, Jumeirah Thanda Island offers a rare proposition.
Set within Tanzania’s Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, this exclusive‑use island villa blends barefoot luxury with the operational polish of a global hospitality brand—an ideal combination for executive retreats, board‑level strategy sessions, or high‑stakes negotiations that demand both discretion and inspiration.
The island accommodates up to 18 guests across a main villa and two duplex Tanzanian Bandas, each crafted with locally hand‑carved furniture and traditional fabrics. The aesthetic is warm, tactile, and unmistakably rooted in East African craftsmanship, yet the overall experience is resolutely contemporary. The villa’s interiors are spacious and breezy, with open‑plan lounges, wide verandas, and generous suites designed to maximise views of the Indian Ocean. The Bandas offer a more intimate, traditional feel—perfect for guests seeking quiet seclusion within the wider group.
Bathrooms are elegantly appointed, with natural materials, walk‑in showers, and thoughtful amenities that strike a balance between indulgence and simplicity. As an exclusive‑use property, the island’s layout lends itself naturally to privacy: executives can work, meet, or unwind without interruption, supported by discreet staff who anticipate needs without intruding.
Wellness is woven into the rhythm of the island. Daily yoga sessions and bespoke spa treatments take place against a backdrop of turquoise water and rustling palms—an environment that encourages clarity and calm. For more active downtime, the island offers kayaking through coral reefs, stand‑up paddleboarding, sailing on traditional Arab dhows, and access to tennis and volleyball courts. These activities double as excellent team‑building opportunities, particularly for groups looking to balance productivity with shared experiences.
Nature is a defining part of the stay. The Egret Walk leads guests along a white‑sand trail to observe the island’s resident white, grey, and black egrets, while excursions to Zanzibar’s spice markets or Mafia Island’s eleventh‑century ruins offer cultural depth between meetings. The island’s privileged access to the Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve—the largest protected marine area in the Indian Ocean—opens the door to guided snorkelling, scuba diving, and the unforgettable chance to swim alongside whale sharks.
Dining is entirely bespoke. Private chefs source the freshest local ingredients to create menus tailored to each group’s preferences, whether that means light working lunches, celebratory dinners, or health‑focused cuisine to support a demanding schedule.
With Jumeirah’s wider portfolio spanning 30 properties across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa, the service ethos is polished and intuitive. Yet Jumeirah Thanda Island remains utterly singular—a secluded, self‑contained world where business can unfold at its most focused, and where every moment feels both purposeful and deeply restorative.