Unguja. The highly anticipated Zanzibar Tourism Exhibition is set to make a triumphant return for its second edition on May 30-31, 2025, at the Nyamanzi Trade Exhibition Grounds. This year, over 1,000 participants are expected to gather on the island to highlight its diverse attractions and significant growth potential.
The announcement was made on January 15, 2025, by Zanzibar’s Minister for Tourism and Antiquities, who noted that the event’s rescheduling was necessary to prevent clashes with the upcoming general elections, which demand priority scheduling for related activities.
Reflecting on the success of the inaugural tourism exhibition held in October 2024, the Minister emphasized the importance of building on that momentum to further promote Zanzibar’s tourism sector. “The exhibition presents a unique opportunity to showcase the breadth of Zanzibar’s offerings and aligns us closer to international tourism standards,” he stated, highlighting the government’s strategy to boost local tourism and attract global visitors.
The Minister also stressed that Zanzibar’s tourism potential extends beyond its renowned beaches, with ongoing efforts aimed at diversifying the island’s attractions. “While our beaches are a key asset, we must invest in a variety of tourism products to ensure visitors return,” he remarked.
Addressing the recent suspension of certain international flights, the Minister reassured stakeholders that it would not adversely affect Zanzibar’s tourism sector. “While direct flights from Paris may have been impacted, other airlines continue to offer direct services to the island, maintaining a steady flow of international visitors,” he clarified.
In addition to promoting Zanzibar’s rich tourism offerings, the exhibition aims to foster partnerships and investments in critical areas such as infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and sustainable tourism practices. The government is committed to improving essential services, including water supply, transportation, and public amenities, to enhance the overall visitor experience.
The Chairman of the Zanzibar Investors Association expressed optimism that the exhibition would garner substantial attention from international markets, particularly in Asia, bolstering Zanzibar’s reputation as a prime tourist destination.
As preparations for the exhibition ramp up, the excitement is palpable among industry stakeholders, who believe this event will establish Zanzibar as a leading tourism hub in the region. The countdown to the exhibition is on, with all eyes on Zanzibar as it seeks to reaffirm its status as a global tourism destination.
