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.

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Q: 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.

A ZIPA approved condominium project is the most secure and straightforward route for foreign buyers to own property in Zanzibar.

Under the Condominium Act No. 10 of 2010, buyers in a registered condominium project hold title in their own name for their specific unit (apartments, villas, or duplexes). This legal framework provides the right to rent out, resell or inherit the unit — and to stay in it where the scheme allows — along with long-term security through government-issued leaseholds. The Registrar issues the individual title on the buyer’s application. We confirm that registration on the projects we list; where we have not yet seen the plan, we say so.

Full explanation of the legal structure: Can foreigners buy property in Zanzibar?

Many of these projects also qualify for the Zanzibar Golden Visa. Investment of more than USD 100,000 in a qualifying ZIPA-approved condominium project can open a Class C-11 residence permit for the buyer, spouse and up to four dependent children after the unit title is registered. You apply to Immigration. How the Zanzibar Golden Visa works for property buyers.

Below is a curated selection of premium condominium residential developments that Zanzibar Luxury Properties has carefully partnered with. These projects offer high-quality construction, exceptional locations, strong lifestyle appeal, and excellent investment potential.