Zanzibar has strengthened its global tourism profile after being named Africa’s Best Corporate Retreat Destination 2025 at the World Travel Awards held in Bahrain.
President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, received the award on December 12, 2025, at the State House in Zanzibar.
The award was officially presented by the Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hamad Hassan Chande, marking a historic first for Zanzibar.
The island claimed the top spot ahead of four strong competitors Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, and Botswana.
Speaking after receiving the award, President Mwinyi described the recognition as a “major honour” for both Zanzibar and Tanzania.
He said the achievement reflects the acountry’s steady progress in strengthening the tourism sector and demonstrates the confidence of the international community in Zanzibar’s development efforts.
President Mwinyi called for stronger coordination among institutions and tourism stakeholders to ensure Tanzania continues to benefit from global awards and emerging opportunities.
He also underscored the need to improve service quality, upgrade attractions, and harness the growing potential of the meetings and events segment to boost the sector’s competitiveness.
“Tourism remains the backbone of Zanzibar’s economy,” he noted, urging continued investment and innovation to increase the sector’s value and revenue.
He further encouraged stakeholders to prepare strategically as Tanzania gears up to host the World Travel Awards Grand Final 2026, which will bring global attention to the country’s tourism offerings.
Deputy Minister Chande said Zanzibar’s victory places Tanzania firmly on the world map as a rising hub for safari and corporate tourism.
He revealed that Tanzania secured five awards in the 2025 competition, including the prestigious World’s Leading Safari Destination, reaffirming the country’s strong position in global tourism.