Jumeirah picks up Swiss icon

Pictured: Le Richemond Jumeirah in Geneva.
Dubai Holding member Jumeirah Group has acquired its first property in Switzerland as it continues its growth trajectory and international expansion.

The flagship property – Le Richemond – was founded in 1875 and is located on the banks of Lake Geneva.

Extensive renovations

The art deco property has been a popular destination for well-known personalities throughout the years. The hotel features 109 keys with 87 rooms and 22 suites, boasting views across Lac LĂ©man and the mountain peaks of Mont Blanc.

The property will undergo extensive renovations, which will commence as soon as possible, to reposition and elevate the guest experience to a level consistent with Jumeirah’s brand expectations. The group plans to introduce its signature wellness and fitness concepts and will also focus on bringing its culinary expertise to the banks of Lake Geneva, with the introduction of unique destination dining concepts. 

Gateway destination profile

The deal to purchase the historic hotel forms part of the group’s strategy to build its brand profile in gateway destinations across the world.

The move also supports the diversification of its portfolio and build brand equity as a globally recognised luxury hotel operator, illustrating Jumeirah’s vision to become one of the world’s top five luxury hotel brands.

Swiss entry

Katerina Giannouka, CEO of Jumeirah Group said: “This is an important acquisition for Jumeirah as it marks our entry into Switzerland, presenting guests with a prestigious address to stay in the heart of Geneva’s most desirable destination, as well as serving as a gateway to world-renowned ski resorts. Le Richemond is a legendary property with a 140-year legacy and impeccable pedigree, and we are committed to preserving this heritage as we redesign the hotel.

“We are in pursuit of the finest architects and designers to curate an exceptional hotel within the Jumeirah portfolio, and we are confident that the re-launch of this property as a new ultra-luxury hotel in Geneva following the completion of the planned renovation works (currently expected in 2025), will support the city’s tourism economy, attracting both domestic and international visitors for business and leisure. As the gateway to the mountains of Europe, Geneva is strategically significant for us as we look to diversify our portfolio in major cities with both summer and winter resort destinations.”

Five in Europe

Jumeirah’s new property in Geneva is its fifth in Europe, joining The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel in London, UK; Capri Palace Jumeirah on the island of Capri, Italy; and Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa in Mallorca, Spain. 

Jumeirah Group, which originated in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, has a portfolio of 26 hotels and resorts across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Upcoming additions include Jumeirah Hotel Marsa Al Arab, 386-key property opening in Dubai this August; the 159-key Jumeirah The Red Sea, which is part of the Red Sea Development Project in Al Wajh, Saudi Arabia, delivering in Q1 2024; while the 190-key Jumeirah Kuala Lumpur will appear in the Malaysian capital in Q2 2024.

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