Zanzibar has become one of the most appealing short-haul destinations for people living in the UAE. With its white beaches, historic Stone Town, and growing number of direct flights, the island offers a slower pace of travel without long-haul fatigue. Yet despite its popularity, visa rules for Zanzibar are often misunderstood, particularly among UAE residents who assume their residence visa influences entry requirements.
In reality, immigration rules are based entirely on passport nationality, not where you live. This distinction catches many travellers off guard, especially first-time visitors. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before travelling from the UAE to Zanzibar, based on official Tanzanian immigration and embassy guidance.
- Zanzibar visa rules explained
- E-Visa vs visa on arrival
- Zanzibar visa costs and mandatory travel insurance
- Required documents and health requirements
- Step-by-step e-Visa application process
- Common reasons for visa delays or entry issues
- What to expect on arrival in Zanzibar
- Common mistakes travellers make
- Tips for UAE residents travelling to Zanzibar
- Best time to travel from the UAE to Zanzibar
- Tanzania Embassy in the UAE
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Zanzibar visa rules explained
Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, meaning there is no separate visa system for the island. Whether you arrive directly in Zanzibar or enter via mainland Tanzania, the same immigration laws apply.
For UAE-based travellers, the most important distinction is between citizenship and residency:
- UAE passport holders are not visa-exempt under embassy rules and are typically issued a multiple-entry ordinary visa, valid for one year, with stays of up to 90 days per visit.
- UAE residents who are not UAE citizens must obtain a Tanzanian visa based on their passport nationality.
- Final entry approval and length of stay are determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Because of this, travellers should always confirm visa requirements before booking flights, even if they have travelled previously.
E-Visa vs visa on arrival
Travellers who require a visa can choose to apply in advance or obtain one at the airport. While both are permitted, the experience differs.
E-Visa (strongly recommended)
Applying for an e-Visa before travel is the most reliable option. The application is completed online through official Tanzanian immigration portals and allows entry to both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Benefits include:
- Approval before travel
- Shorter immigration queues
- Reduced reliance on cash payments
- Fewer complications during busy seasons
Processing usually takes at least five working days, though travellers are advised to apply earlier where possible.
Once approved, visa confirmations should be printed and carried.
Visa on arrival (VOA)
Visa on arrival is available at designated entry points, including Zanzibar International Airport, but travellers should be prepared for:
- Longer queues
- Possible payment delays
- Limited card-payment availability
- Requests for clean US dollar notes
Zanzibar visa costs and mandatory travel insurance
Before applying for a visa or finalising travel plans, it helps to understand the cost structure, as entry to Zanzibar involves both visa fees and a separate insurance requirement. While visa prices vary slightly depending on nationality, most travellers fall into a standard fee category.
In addition, all foreign visitors must purchase government-mandated inbound travel insurance, which is checked on arrival.
| Visa type | Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa (non-UAE citizens) | USD 50 | Single entry, up to 90 days |
| Tourist visa (UAE citizens) | USD 100 | Multiple entry, one year (90 days per stay) |
| Double-entry visa (non-UAE citizens) | USD 100 | Two entries, 90 days each |
| Multiple-entry visa (UAE citizens) | USD 100 | Up to one year |
| Business / Volunteers visa (UAE citizens) | USD 250 | Single entry, 90 days |
| Business / Volunteers visa (non-UAE citizens) | USD 250 | Single entry, 90 days |
Mandatory inbound travel insurance
All foreign visitors must purchase government-mandated inbound travel insurance:
- Cost: USD 44 per person
- Coverage: Up to 92 days
- Mandatory, even if you already have private travel insurance
Immigration officers routinely check proof of this insurance at the point of entry.
Required documents and health requirements
Preparing documents in advance makes both visa processing and arrival smoother. Immigration officers may request to see originals or printed copies.
Ensure you have:
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Completed and signed the visa application form
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation
- Visa fee payment
- Mandatory insurance confirmation
Health requirements
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from or transiting through a high-risk country. Direct travel from the UAE does not require it.
Step-by-step e-Visa application process
Applying for a Tanzanian e-Visa is generally a smooth process, especially if your documents are ready in advance. The application is completed online and does not require an embassy visit. Taking a few minutes to review details carefully before submission can help avoid delays or requests for corrections later.
Applying for an e-Visa is straightforward when prepared:
- Confirm the correct visa type for your travel purpose
- Complete and sign the visa application form
- Upload passport copy, photographs, and itinerary
- Submit via the official portal ending in .go.tz
- Pay the applicable visa fee
- Purchase mandatory inbound insurance
- Print all approvals and receipts
- Carry physical copies when travelling
Common reasons for visa delays or entry issues
Most entry delays are caused by simple oversights rather than strict immigration rules. Common issues include:
- Incorrect visa application details
- Passports with less than six months’ validity
- Missing printed documents.
Travellers may also face delays if they have not purchased the mandatory inbound travel insurance or if payment systems are unavailable when applying for a visa on arrival.
A little advance preparation usually prevents these problems.
What to expect on arrival in Zanzibar
On arrival at Zanzibar International Airport, immigration officers will review your travel documents and may ask a few routine questions about the purpose and length of your stay. Travellers who have secured an e-Visa in advance usually move through immigration more quickly, as their details are already in the system.
If you are applying for a visa on arrival, it’s worth being prepared for a slower process:
- Expect longer queues, especially during peak arrival times or late-night flights.
- Carry clean US dollar notes, as card payment machines may not always be available.
- Allow extra processing time, particularly during busy travel seasons.
Once immigration formalities are complete, customs procedures are generally simple and efficient, allowing most travellers to exit the airport without delay and begin their stay in Zanzibar.
Common mistakes travellers make
Many entry issues at Zanzibar’s airport are easy to avoid with a bit of preparation. Most problems arise not from strict rules, but from misunderstandings or missing paperwork at the time of travel.
- Assuming UAE residence replaces visa requirements: Visa rules are based on passport nationality, not residency status.
- Forgetting to purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance: This insurance is required even if you already have private coverage.
- Not carrying printed copies of documents: Immigration officers often prefer physical copies of visa approvals and insurance receipts.
- Arriving without sufficient cash when using a visa on arrival: Payment systems may be unavailable, and cash US dollars are sometimes required.
- Travelling with a passport valid for less than six months: This can lead to denied boarding or entry refusal.
Avoiding these common mistakes helps ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival experience.
Tips for UAE residents travelling to Zanzibar
Travellers flying from the UAE can make their journey easier by planning a few details in advance, especially during peak seasons or when travelling with family.
- Apply for an e-Visa at least two weeks before travel: This allows time for processing and any follow-up requests.
- Print multiple copies of all approvals: Having backups is useful in case documents are requested multiple times.
- Keep travel documents easily accessible on arrival: This speeds up immigration checks and reduces stress after long flights.
- Check transit visa rules if connecting through another country: Some transit points have separate entry requirements.
- Book accommodation with confirmed documentation: Immigration officers may ask for proof of where you will be staying.
Best time to travel from the UAE to Zanzibar
Zanzibar can be visited year-round, but travel conditions vary by season. The best months are generally from June to October and December to February, when the weather is drier, and beach conditions are at their best. These periods also tend to be busier and slightly more expensive.
The long rainy season from March to May brings fewer visitors and lower prices, though heavy rainfall can affect outdoor activities. Short rains in November are usually brief and less disruptive, making it a quieter option for travellers who don’t mind occasional showers.
Tanzania Embassy in the UAE
While most travellers can complete the visa process online, some cases require direct confirmation or assistance from the Tanzanian authorities. This includes referred visas, business travel, long stays, or situations where additional documents are requested.
In these cases, the Tanzania Embassy in the UAE is the official point of contact.
Walk-in applications are accepted, and appointments are not required. Visa fees are non-refundable, and incomplete applications are returned to the applicant.
- Operational hours: Mon to Thurs: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Fri: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Visa services: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Visa collection: Mon to Thurs: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Fri: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location
It’s located in Villa 31, Near Al Karama Complex, Abu Dhabi
Contact Information
Phone: +971 2 631 3088
Key takeaways
Zanzibar visa rules are governed by Tanzanian immigration law and depend on passport nationality, not UAE residency. UAE citizens typically require a multiple-entry ordinary visa, while non-UAE citizens apply according to nationality. Mandatory inbound insurance applies to all travellers. Preparing documents correctly ensures smooth entry.
FAQs
Yes. UAE citizens are typically issued a multiple-entry ordinary visa valid for 1 year, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
Yes, if they hold a non-UAE passport.
Yes, for all foreign visitors.
No. A business visa or work permit is required.
No. Final entry approval is at the discretion of immigration officers.
