Can foreigners buy property in Zanzibar?

Yes. Foreigners can buy property in Zanzibar, but not freehold land. Under the Land Tenure Act 1992 there is no private freehold ownership of land. The practical residential route is an individual unit title in a ZIPA-approved condominium project under the Condominium Act No. 10 of 2010.

What is the difference between a unit title and a company lease in Zanzibar?

An individual unit title is registered in the buyer’s own name inside a ZIPA-approved condominium project and does not require a company. A company lease is required for stand-alone land, hotels, commercial projects, or residential properties outside a condominium scheme.

top of page

Zanzibar Journal

Insights & Luxury Living in Zanzibar

How Does the Zanzibar Golden Visa Work for Property Buyers? (2026)

Clear 2026 guide to the Zanzibar Golden Visa for property buyers. USD 100,000 threshold, Class C-11 fees, family coverage, title costs and what happens if you sell.

Paul Tellwright, FCSI

Aug 264 min read

bottom of page