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Zanzibar short-term rental rules (2026)

Tanzania
Conditional
Rules last checked  ·  Region: International

Market overview

CONDITIONALStays under 30 days

Allowed, but an authority can refuse the permit.

Regulations announced in July 2024 require all private residences used for tourist lodging, applying to both locals and diaspora, to register and license with ZCT; intended to ensure tourist safety and quality standards.

Why do places restrict rentals?

Property eligibility: Not assessed A market overview can't tell whether a specific home qualifies (zoning, permits, HOA).

Licence
Required
Primary residence
Not required

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NOT YET RESEARCHEDStays of 30+ nights

Longer stays (30+ days)

Not yet researched for this place.

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The full Zanzibar rules

15 rules on record for Zanzibar. Every rule traced to its official source. How we research

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Source: zct.co.tz (official), checked 6 Nov 2026. Official links, citations and how to apply come with a paid plan.

Quick answers

Is Airbnb legal in Zanzibar?

Yes, if you get a permit the authority can refuse. Regulations announced in July 2024 require all private residences used for tourist lodging, applying to both locals and diaspora, to register and license with ZCT; intended to ensure tourist safety and quality standards.

Do you need a permit for a short-term rental in Zanzibar?

Yes, a licence or registration is required.

When were the Zanzibar rules last checked?

We last checked the short-term rental rules for Zanzibar on 6 Nov 2026.

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