Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about buying property and investing in Zanzibar.
Buying Property
Foreign nationals can invest in property in Zanzibar, but ownership structures differ from freehold title in many Western markets. The most common routes include:
Leasehold — A long-term lease (often up to 99 years) granted by the government or a landowner, giving you secure use and transfer rights for the lease period.
Condominium ownership — Individual title to a unit within a registered development, with shared ownership of common areas.
Investment structures — Purchasing through a locally registered company or partnership where direct individual title is restricted, often used for larger commercial or development projects.
AJG helps clients understand which structure fits their goals and ensures all agreements are properly documented and registered.
Timelines vary depending on property type, title status, and whether financing or permits are involved. A straightforward purchase with clean documentation typically takes:
2–4 weeks — Offer, due diligence, and signing the purchase agreement.
4–8 weeks — Registration, stamp duty payment, and transfer of lease or title.
2–3 months or longer — Complex transactions, new developments, or cases requiring additional government approvals.
We provide a clear timeline at the start of each engagement so you know what to expect at every stage.
Budget for several costs beyond the purchase price. Exact amounts depend on property value and transaction type, but you should plan for:
Registration — Fees to register the transfer with the relevant land registry or authority.
Stamp Duty — A government levy on property transfers, calculated as a percentage of the transaction value.
Legal Fees — Conveyancing, contract review, and registration support from your legal advisor.
Government Charges — Administrative fees, consent applications, and other official processing costs.
Agency Fees — If you work with a real estate agent or broker, typically agreed as a percentage of the sale price.
Yes. Many of our international clients complete purchases without being physically present in Zanzibar for the entire process.
Remote purchases are supported through a power of attorney, allowing a trusted representative or legal advisor to act on your behalf for signing, registration, and official submissions. We also coordinate via secure digital communication — video calls, email, and document sharing — so you stay informed at every step.
AJG manages the local coordination while keeping you fully involved in key decisions and approvals.
Typical documentation for a property purchase includes:
Passport — Valid identification for foreign buyers.
TIN (if required) — Tax Identification Number, needed for certain registrations and official filings.
Purchase Agreement — The signed contract between buyer and seller outlining terms, price, and conditions.
Due diligence documents — Title deeds or lease certificates, survey plans, seller identification, and any existing encumbrances or approvals.
Investment
Short-term rentals are popular in Zanzibar's tourism market, and many investors use platforms like Airbnb. Options include:
Self-managed listings — You handle bookings, guest communication, and maintenance directly or through a local contact.
Property management companies — Full-service operators who handle marketing, housekeeping, guest services, and compliance on your behalf.
Hybrid arrangements — A local manager for day-to-day operations while you retain oversight and pricing decisions.
Licensing, tax registration, and building or community rules may apply depending on location and property type. We can advise on the right setup for your investment.
Returns vary widely and no responsible advisor can guarantee fixed figures. Your actual ROI depends on factors such as:
Property location, condition, and proximity to beaches or tourism hubs
Whether you pursue short-term holiday lets or long-term residential rentals
Management costs, occupancy rates, and seasonal demand
Purchase price, renovation investment, and ongoing maintenance
Currency exchange rates and repatriation of rental income
We help clients model realistic scenarios based on current market conditions rather than promising unrealistic returns.
Zanzibar has attracted growing interest from international investors, driven by several long-term factors:
Tourism growth — Steady visitor numbers and demand for accommodation, restaurants, and experiences.
Infrastructure development — Ongoing improvements to roads, utilities, and connectivity across the islands.
Long-term demand — Limited prime coastal land and a distinctive lifestyle appeal that supports property values in key areas.
Like any emerging market, success depends on careful site selection, legal compliance, and realistic expectations. AJG provides grounded, local insight to help you invest with confidence.
Land
Land ownership in Zanzibar is governed by specific legal frameworks. In many cases, land is held under government lease rather than absolute freehold, and certain categories may be restricted for foreign buyers.
Direct land purchases are possible where the legal framework permits, often through long-term lease rights or approved investment channels. The structure depends on whether the land is general land, village land, or part of a planned development.
Before committing, it is essential to confirm that the seller has lawful authority to transfer the interest and that your intended use is permitted. AJG guides clients through this framework from the outset.
Thorough due diligence protects your investment. Before any payment or signing, we recommend:
Title verification — Confirming the legal status of the land or lease at the relevant registry.
Survey — A licensed survey to verify boundaries, acreage, and any encroachments.
Ownership — Validating the seller's identity and legal right to transfer the property.
Government approvals — Checking that required consents, permits, or change-of-use applications are in place or obtainable.
Zoning — Confirming the land is designated for your intended use, whether residential, commercial, tourism, or agricultural.
Still have questions?
Every property journey is unique. Book a consultation with AJG for personalised guidance on ownership structures, due diligence, and your investment goals in Zanzibar.
Ready to take the next step?
Speak with our team for clear, practical advice tailored to your property goals in Zanzibar.
Book a Consultation