President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi of Zanzibar met with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, in a high-level discussion aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key sectors.
During the meeting, President Mwinyi highlighted the “brotherly” ties between Zanzibar and Saudi Arabia, praising the benefits of their partnership in development, social welfare, and international diplomacy.
He requested Saudi support to strengthen the Zanzibar Hajj Fund, aiming to enhance facilities and preparations for Zanzibari pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
Education featured prominently, with discussions on expanding scholarships for students at the Islamic University of Zanzibar to study in Saudi Arabia.
Minister Al-Rabiah commended Zanzibar’s infrastructure upgrades, including airports and roads, describing them as vital for economic growth and boosting international tourism.
The leaders also explored aviation cooperation, proposing more direct flights from Saudi Arabia to Zanzibar, particularly during the Hajj season, to facilitate travel for pilgrims and tourists.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen investment and development partnerships. Minister Al-Rabiah reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for Zanzibar across multiple sectors to ensure continued growth and prosperity.