ZANZIBAR; August 19, 2026 — Zanzibar recorded a sharp increase in international tourist arrivals in July, as the peak European summer holiday season boosted visitor numbers and strengthened the islands’ tourism outlook.
According to data released by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT), international arrivals rose by 54.9 per cent month-on-month to 107,801 visitors in July, up from June.
The latest figure also represents a 9.6 per cent increase compared with the 98,370 international visitors recorded in July 2025.
Research and Statistics Officer at the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, Hassan Ameir Vuai, said the latest figures demonstrate the continued upward trend in the islands’ tourism sector.
EUROPE LEADS JULY ARRIVALS
Europe remained Zanzibar’s largest source market during the month, accounting for 56.4 per cent of total international arrivals, equivalent to 60,754 visitors.
Italy led individual international markets with 8,892 arrivals, followed by the United Kingdom with 5,618, Germany with 5,423, and France with 3,236 visitors.
African markets also continued to make a significant contribution, accounting for 24.6 per cent of total arrivals. Kenya was the leading African source market, recording 5,540 visitors.
The strong performance highlights the importance of European markets to Zanzibar’s tourism industry, particularly during the northern hemisphere summer holiday season.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL DOMINATES
Leisure tourism continued to account for almost all international arrivals in July.
Holidaymakers represented 99.4 per cent of total visitors, while business travellers and visitors travelling for family reasons accounted for less than one per cent combined.
The average length of stay remained at eight days, while nearly one in five visitors stayed for 10 days or longer, providing sustained demand for accommodation, hospitality, transport and other tourism-related services.
TOURISM GROWTH CONTINUES
Zanzibar’s tourism sector has recorded significant long-term growth, with annual international arrivals increasing from 260,644 visitors in 2020 to 917,167 in 2025.
The latest July figures suggest that the destination continues to benefit from increased international travel demand, improved air connectivity and sustained marketing efforts.
Tourism authorities are continuing to work with private-sector operators on joint marketing initiatives aimed at strengthening Zanzibar’s position in international tourism markets and protecting its market share during the second half of the year.
With European summer travel reaching its peak, Zanzibar is expected to maintain strong visitor flows as the destination continues to promote its beaches, islands, cultural attractions and hospitality offerings.
Source - Daily News
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