Zanzibar Reaches New Tourism Milestone with Record 2025 Arrivals and One Million Visitors on the Horizon

Published on November 29, 2025

Zanzibar, the tropical getaway, is on the way to record the all-time most visited year this 2025 with almost a million tourists arriving on the island. The most current data obtained wit the Office of Chaif Government Statistician showed that a total of 743,605 tourists arrived in 2023. with this value, the year of 2023 surpassed that of 2022 with 2 months remaining. The island is growing and shaped more to global reputation, not to mention the success and resilience of hospitality. and tourism investments.

Zanzibar is also growing due to new and upgraded airports and marinas. New airlines and routes directly to the island and intermediate points to major islands are also being utilized. New, marketing and promoting of Zanzibar is also being done. The last 2 months are expected to see an influx close to 250,000 tourists arriving on the island with experts on the industry Tanzanian and global industry experts to lead the island over the 3 million inbound tourist pole.

Steady Growth in Tourist Arrivals

In the first 10 months of 2025, Zanzibar saw an 11% increase in international arrivals compared to the previous year, reflecting a consistent upward trajectory for the island. The months of July, August, and September saw the highest number of visitors, with 98,370 in July, 105,506 in August, and 84,154 in September. These strong figures highlight the island’s growing appeal to tourists, especially during peak seasons when Zanzibar’s beaches, historic sites, and cultural offerings are in high demand.city.

Infrastructure Improvements and Enhanced Connectivity

Zanzibar’s tourism sector has been bolstered by a series of infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to airport facilities and the creation of new transport links. The increase in direct international flights, secured through initiatives like the African Aviation Development Conference (AVIADEV), has made the island more accessible to travelers from around the world. These upgrades have been crucial in accommodating the rising demand for tourism services, while ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for visitors.

Zanzibar’s governmental commitment to modernizing its infrastructure, enhancing service quality, and creating a competitive investment climate has contributed to its position as a top tourist destination. As Zanzibar continues to grow as a tourism hub, the government is focusing on ensuring that the island’s appeal is sustainable, preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage while catering to the evolving needs of travelers.

Diversifying Tourism Offerings

Zanzibar’s tourism sector has also benefited from the diversification of its tourism offerings. Beyond its famous beaches and heritage tourism, Zanzibar has increasingly become a hub for sports tourism, medical tourism, Halal tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. These new segments have attracted visitors from different regions, expanding the island’s appeal beyond traditional beach holidays.

The growing popularity of Zanzibar’s sustainable tourism initiatives has also played a key role in the island’s appeal to eco-conscious travelers. These initiatives align with the island’s commitment to protecting its natural resources, encouraging environmentally friendly practices, and promoting community participation in tourism development.

Economic Impact of Tourism Growth

The surge in tourist arrivals has had a profound impact on Zanzibar’s economy. Increased visitor spending has stimulated growth across multiple sectors, including construction, transport, agriculture, and fisheries. Small-scale entrepreneurs, such as local artisans and spice farm operators, have particularly benefited from the rise in tourism, providing them with new business opportunities and access to a growing customer base.

The Future of Zanzibar’s Tourism

The projected 1 million visitors mark in 2025 is seen as a defining moment for Zanzibar’s tourism industry, signaling its transition from an emerging destination to an established global tourism player. As Zanzibar continues to develop its tourism offerings, it will need to balance growth with the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage.

For those planning to visit Zanzibar, it’s an exciting time, with unique attractions, sustainable tourism initiatives, and luxurious accommodations available to cater to a variety of interests and preferences. The island’s stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scenes, and rich history ensure that Zanzibar will remain a top destination for travelers in the years to come.