Yes new government-backed initiatives have opened Zanzibar’s property market to international buyers. All land in Zanzibar is held under government trusteeship, and historically only Tanzanian citizens could be granted the ‘Right of Occupancy’. However, recent legal reforms under the Condominium Act of 2019 now allow non-citizens to acquire property through approved developments that meet strict investment criteria. These projects must be endorsed by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) to qualify. Sandbank Villas has received full approvals prior to launch, enabling us to offer exceptional villas to the international market. This offers a rare opportunity for buyers seeking Zanzibar real estate investment or exploring exclusive Zanzibar investment opportunities.

International investors can buy property through government-approved schemes such as Sandbank Villas, which are sold with a title deed for 33 years, renewable up to 99 years. These deeds come with full inheritance, rental, and resale rights (with the lease renewing to the next buyer). While the land is leasehold rather than freehold, these renewable terms provide long-term security and the ability to pass properties down through generations offering a highly attractive structure for those looking to invest in Zanzibar. We do recommend seeking independent legal advice to confirm the legality and security of your Zanzibar property investment.

The leasehold framework was formalised in the 1990s, so no lease has yet reached the full 99 year term. It is modelled on British leasehold law, where 99 and 125 year leases are standard and typically renewed well in advance.

Other global markets, such as Singapore and Dubai, operate similar leasehold systems that consistently offer renewals when land is developed and strategically valuable.
In the same way, Zanzibar’s tourism and economic growth incentivise the government to support renewals and reinvestment rather than reclaim well-developed parcels. While technically leasehold, you can still sell, assign, or inherit your property just like any other real estate title. This structure is designed to give international buyers confidence and security when investing in Zanzibar for the long term.

Zanzibar offers a secure and transparent framework for international investors. Approved developments undergo rigorous due diligence through ZIPA before being offered to foreign buyers. Property titles are formally registered and backed by government oversight, and owners enjoy legally recognised rights to lease, rent, and resell their homes.

Combined with the island’s rising global profile, stable governance, and growing luxury tourism market, this creates a solid foundation for Zanzibar real estate investment with strong potential for long-term capital appreciation.

Most international buyers purchase in cash, as local mortgage options are limited and carry high interest rates. While a few regional banks technically offer loans, rates can exceed 18% and loan-to-value ratios are low (typically under 50%), making this impractical. As a result, nearly all foreign-led Zanzibar property investment transactions are cash-based, giving buyers full ownership from the outset and simplifying the process of investing in Zanzibar.

Residency-by-investment allows international buyers who make a qualifying property purchase to obtain long-term residency permits. It offers the right to live, work, and manage your assets locally, making it an attractive pathway for global investors seeking both lifestyle and financial rewards through Zanzibar property investment.

The threshold varies depending on property type and location, but typically starts from high-end residential or resort developments. This ensures that those who invest in Zanzibar are contributing to the island’s premium real estate sector, helping preserve its exclusive character while securing personal residency benefits.

Residency offers the freedom to live in Zanzibar year-round, own and operate local businesses, and access regional banking and investment channels. It enhances the appeal of Zanzibar real estate investment by combining lifestyle, security, and growth in one of the region’s most compelling Zanzibar investment opportunities.

No. Residency-by-investment does not lead directly to citizenship. It provides long-term renewable residency rights. Many investors view this as an ideal balance: the ability to enjoy the island while maintaining their existing citizenship as part of a diversified global portfolio when investing in Zanzibar.

Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included under the same residency-by-investment application. This makes it possible to establish a secure, multi-generational base for your family while benefiting from the income and capital growth potential of your Zanzibar property investment.

Once a qualifying property is purchased, residency permits are typically processed within a few months. With expert local guidance, the journey from offer to occupancy is smooth and efficient, enabling you to enjoy your new lifestyle soon after you invest in Zanzibar.