Zanzibar Set for Tourism Boom with USD 12 Million Heritage Restoration and Modernisation: What You Need To Know

The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has entered a USD 12 million public-private partnership with Infinity Developments to restore and modernise several key cultural and heritage sites across the archipelago. The project will preserve cultural heritage while developing tourism to establish Zanzibar as an internationally recognized tourist destination which provides better experiences to its visitors.

Zanzibar’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation and Growth

The new partnership between the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Infinity Developments marks a major milestone in preserving the rich heritage of the islands while driving sustainable tourism. With USD 12 million in funding, this initiative targets the restoration and enhancement of historic landmarks and cultural venues that hold immense historical value for Zanzibar’s local communities and global visitors.

Mounting tourism interest in Zanzibar, fuelled by its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, is expected to rise sharply with the improvements made to the Old Fort, High Court Museum, and the famous Hamamni Persian Baths. The project also focuses on several historic bath complexes, including Forodhani Hamam, Kidichi Hamam, and Kizimbani Ham.

Preserving Zanzibar’s Historical Significance

The restoration of these cultural sites is critical to preserving Zanzibar’s role as a leading cultural tourism hub in East Africa. Notably, Stone Town has long served as the epicentre of Zanzibar’s Swahili and Arab heritage, making it an essential part of the cultural fabric of the islands. The focus on historic bathhouses highlights a period of time when Zanzibar was a crossroads for merchants, royalty, and explorers, which shaped the islands’ legacy.

As part of this initiative, there are plans to introduce visitor-friendly infrastructure upgrades, ensuring that tourists can immerse themselves in these culturally rich experiences with the added comfort of modern amenities. From guided tours to interactive cultural programmes, the focus is on providing an educational and enriching experience for those wishing to understand Zanzibar’s past in greater depth.

Strengthening Community Partnerships and Local Engagement

A key aspect of this restoration initiative is the collaboration with local communities, ensuring that heritage preservation goes hand-in-hand with economic empowerment. Infinity Developments and the Zanzibar government are prioritising the involvement of local artisans, guides, and cultural experts in the process. This community-driven approach ensures that the cultural programming benefits the local economy and fosters deeper connections between visitors and residents.

Through community partnerships, local enterprises will thrive as tourism demand grows. Craftsmanship, performances, and traditional cooking will be integral parts of the visitor experience, providing additional revenue streams for local artisans and entrepreneurs.

The partnership also aims to enhance the visitor experience through educational programming that promotes Zanzibar’s rich cultural traditions, including music, dance, and historical storytelling. These initiatives not only strengthen Zanzibar’s cultural identity but also enrich the broader African tourism landscape.

A Boost for Zanzibar’s Tourism Industry in 2026 and Beyond

The implementation of this programme is expected to drive tourism growth and contribute to a diversified tourism offering in Zanzibar. The upgrades are aligned with President Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s vision for placing heritage and culture at the heart of Zanzibar’s long-term development strategy. This approach not only aims to protect Zanzibar’s unique cultural assets but also positions the islands as a leading destination for heritage tourism.

With this USD 12 million investment, Zanzibar is laying the groundwork for a sustainable tourism model that balances growth with heritage conservation. Visitors can expect to experience a richer and more authentic connection to Zanzibar’s cultural roots while contributing to the long-term preservation of the islands’ heritage.

A New Chapter for Zanzibar’s Heritage and Tourism

Zanzibar’s partnership with Infinity Developments marks a new era for the islands, one where cultural heritage and tourism development go hand-in-hand. The USD 12 million heritage restoration programme will help preserve the past while providing a modern, immersive experience for visitors.

Zanzibar has developed into a more attractive travel destination which showcases Swahili, Arab, and African cultural heritage. The visitor experience in Stone Town will be improved through the development of historic baths and cultural programs, which enable visitors to gain a better understanding of Zanzibar’s historical heritage. The project will create benefits for local residents through community engagement, which will lead to increased tourist activity, making Zanzibar a better travel destination which everyone can enjoy.

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