Zanzibar Code of Conduct

The people of Zanzibar are traditional, the island is mostly Muslim. These are few tips for foreigners visiting this island to consider:

• CLOTHING. Dress appropriately in public: locals are deeply offended by revealing clothing. Keep swimwear to the beach only. In towns and villages women should avoid sleeveless tops and shorts, while men should keep shirts on and where shorts to at least knee level. 

• PHOTOGRAPHY. Always ask permission before photographing local people. DON'T take pictures of kids (we know, hard to resist) without parents absence and approval.

• MOSQUES. Enter only with permission and then only without shoes.

• RAMADAN. During Ramadan take particular care with dress, and show respect by not eating or drinking in public places during daylight hours.

• SCOOTERS. Although you may notice local peaple using hard beach after the tide as a road be aware is not allowed for tourists, besides is dangerous and accidents are easy to happen.

• SEA SHELLS. Taking/buying seashells as a memoir for your diving expedition may not seem like a misdemeanour. However, the Government wants to preserve the natural beauty of Zanzibar and protect it from mass-tourism. It is not permitted to take or buy seashells or any other type of natural resource. One of the Code of Conduct’s primary aims and implications is to protect Zanzibar’s natural wildlife and habitats. 

Improper behaviour and clothing might lead to a penalty fine ranging from US$ 700 to US$ 5,000, imprisonment or both in accordance with the Tourism Regulations. 

Watch this short video on Zanzibar code of conduct produced by Zanzibar Commission for Tourism to find out more.