Latest news with #MudrickRamadhanSoragha
Gulf Business
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Zanzibar's Tourism Minister on its vision for growth, GCC visitors and eco-tourism
Image: Supplied With its pristine beaches, Swahili culture, and rising appeal as a luxury destination, Zanzibar is positioning itself as a leading player in sustainable tourism. In this exclusive interview with Gulf Business , Mudrick Ramadhan Soragha, Minister of Tourism of Zanzibar, outlines the island's vision for high-value, low-impact tourism, discussing everything from strategic partnerships with Gulf nations and rising GCC visitor numbers to eco-resorts, cultural conservation, and a new digitally enabled airport terminal. Zanzibar is gaining attention as a premium beach and cultural destination. How is your tourism strategy balancing luxury development with the need to preserve the island's natural ecosystems and Swahili heritage? Zanzibar's tourism strategy is guided by the principle of 'sustainability with authenticity'. We recognise that while luxury tourism is vital to our economic growth, it must not come at the expense of our fragile marine ecosystems or our centuries-old Swahili heritage. To ensure this balance, we have implemented rigorous environmental impact assessments as a prerequisite for all developments. We actively encourage sustainable design, favoring vernacular, low-impact architecture that integrates seamlessly with the natural and cultural landscape. We are also working closely with UNESCO to safeguard heritage assets and ensure that all tourism development aligns with Zanzibar's unique cultural identity. Finally, community engagement remains central, ensuring that development uplifts local livelihoods and reflects the essence of Zanzibari heritage. Many GCC countries are investing in luxury coastal developments and year-round beach tourism. What lessons or partnerships can Zanzibar explore with Gulf nations to enhance its own beach tourism offerings sustainably ? The visionary transformation of the Gulf into a hub for year-round luxury tourism provides a compelling blueprint for Zanzibar. We are exploring bilateral partnerships with the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain in areas such as hospitality investment, cultural exchange, and green infrastructure. The Gulf region's expertise in integrating climate-adaptive technologies, wellness and heritage experiences, and halal-friendly hospitality aligns well with Zanzibar's ambitions. Already, we are in advanced discussions with entities like Qatar's Retaj Group and other private investors in the region. We want to ensure that future investors prioritise integrating the local community and that developments will directly benefit the local population. Ways to achieve this are to employ island staff for all hotel functions and to source furniture, arts and interior design from local artisans. Our goal is to foster long-term Gulf-Zanzibar tourism investment corridors built on mutual values of innovation, sustainability, and respect for heritage. With increasing tourism from the Middle East to East Africa, how is Zanzibar tailoring its tourism products to attract high-value travellers from the GCC while maintaining authentic experiences? We are curating a suite of tourism experiences that speak directly to the preferences of Gulf travellers, particularly families, discerning couples, and faith-conscious tourists. These include ultra-private beachfront villas, halal culinary offerings, and bespoke cultural journeys that honor Zanzibar's deep Islamic heritage. We are also enhancing air connectivity and simplifying visa procedures for GCC nationals. This is why Zanzibar proactively pursued the opportunity to host the AVIADEV conference, as part of a broader strategy to attract more direct flights to the island. Yet, even as we elevate our service offering to match the expectations of high-net-worth visitors, we remain committed to preserving Zanzibar's soul, be it through traditional dhow sailing excursions, spice plantation tours, or immersive experiences. Read: Over-tourism and climate change are placing strain on coastal destinations globally. What policies or infrastructure investments is your ministry prioritising to make Zanzibar's beach tourism climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable? We are acutely aware that Zanzibar's future depends on ecological resilience. Central to our blue economy policy is our Marine Spatial Planning initiative, an ambitious coastal zoning project, in collaboration with various environmental partners, aimed at ensuring the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources. In parallel, we are upgrading waste and water management infrastructure within major tourism zones and investing in the training of local communities on sustainable best practices. We are also establishing marine protected areas and implementing coral reef restoration projects, particularly around Pemba Island—a vital biodiversity hotspot. Our long-term vision emphasises low-density, high-value tourism. By championing eco-conscious resorts over mass tourism models, we aim to protect both our environment and our cultural identity for generations to come. How is Zanzibar leveraging digital tools, eco-certifications and smart tourism strategies to remain competitive in a global market? Zanzibar is undergoing a digital transformation with the roll-out of smart visitor data systems, online licensing, and digital promotion platforms. Through a UK-funded programme we are also piloting the introduction of eco-certifications for hotels and tour operators and promoting sustainable practices via capacity building for small enterprises. By aligning with global sustainability benchmarks and embedding digital innovation, we aim to position Zanzibar as a regional leader in responsible tourism. Give us a breakdown of people visiting Zanzibar from the GCC, highlighting perhaps the UAE as well as Saudi Arabia and other key source markets. The Middle East, particularly the Gulf region, is emerging as a high-potential source market for Zanzibar. In 2024, arrivals from the UAE reached approximately 11,000, while Saudi Arabia accounted for 9,500 visitors. Collectively, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain contributed an additional 6,000 tourists. These numbers place the GCC firmly within our top ten non-African source markets. Our objective is to double this volume by 2027, supported by strategic airline partnerships, destination marketing, and tailored hospitality offerings. Overall, 71.6 per cent of arrivals into Zanzibar were from Europe, with Italy, Germany, France, and Poland leading. African arrivals also grew strongly, with South Africa and Kenya showing double-digit growth. The majority of travellers (86 per cent) are Millennials and Gen Z, with an average stay of eight nights. At 98.3 percent, leisure remains the primary purpose of travel to the island. Tell us about the investment from the government towards tourism. Key investments to support the island's continued tourism growth include the construction of the new international airport terminal at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which has expanded the airport's capacity to 1.5 million annual passengers and enhanced air connectivity to the destination. With tourism now contributing over 27 per cent to Zanzibar's GDP, accounting for 80 per cent of its foreign exchange earnings, and sector revenues exceeding $1bn in 2024, we are also developing state-of-the-art Tourism Training Institutes to equip the local workforce with the skills needed to meet international hospitality standards. Moreover, substantial public-private investment is being directed toward eco-resorts, wellness centers, and sustainable marinas. Our heritage conservation initiatives are equally robust, and we are restoring architectural treasures in Stone Town and other cultural sites. To protect travellers and reinforce market confidence, we are introducing tourism insurance schemes and launching digital service platforms. All of these are anchored in our national vision of building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism economy, grounded in sustainability and driven by innovation.
Mid East Info
08-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Kerten Hospitality and Azure Announce The House Residence Azure Zanzibar — A Landmark All-Villa Resort in One of Africa's Fastest-Growing Destinations
Dubai: Kerten Hospitality, a global lifestyle hospitality operator, and Azure United Properties have unveiled their newest project: The House Residence Azure Zanzibar—a luxury, all-villa resort and residential community on the pristine Michamvi Peninsula. The announcement was made during Arabian Travel Market in Dubai in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Mudrick Ramadhan Soragha, Minister of Tourism of Zanzibar, underscoring the government's support for high-impact, sustainable tourism and lifestyle developments. Poised to become a new benchmark for contemporary, conscious living in East Africa, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar is not only a resort—it is a unique real estate investment opportunity, with a curated collection of 93 ocean-view villas available for sale, of which 16 stunning over water villas. Each residence offers investors and buyers a rare chance to own property in a market experiencing rapid economic and tourism growth, with Zanzibar emerging as one of the continent's top lifestyle and hospitality destinations. 'This is more than just a development—it's a commitment to co-create a new era for Zanzibar and invest with intention,' said Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality. 'With tourism arrivals jumping by 14.2% year-on-year and crossing the one million mark in 2024, Zanzibar is gaining serious global momentum. For forward-thinking investors, this project offers a rare chance to be part of a carefully curated lifestyle that blends comfort and conscious living, rooted in community and culture.' The resort, scheduled for handover by Q4 2026, spans 60.000 sqm of lush coastal terrain within a protected mangrove reserve. Each villa is thoughtfully designed to blend modern architectural lines with Swahili design influences and locally sourced materials, including traditional Makuti roofing. Villas feature panoramic sunset views over the Indian Ocean and are crafted with sustainability at their core—powered by solar energy, equipped with biodigesters, and landscaped to support microclimate development. Lifestyle Investment with a Local Soul The House Residence not only offers strong Return on Investment through capital appreciation, rental income potential and operational efficiency, but also through a clear 'Return on Community' by supporting local artisans, suppliers and businesses, contributing to social impact programmes in education, sustainability and heritage preservation, and operating with responsible, low-footprint practices. Owners will benefit from hospitality driven real estate, where ownership comes with access to a managed lifestyle with boutique -style services and tailored amenities focused on wellbeing, creativity and cultural immersion. Exclusive amenties include: Two destination dining venues including a speciality over water restaurant A wellness center An outdoor cinema, adult and family pool, kids club, retail outlets, and event and co-working spaces A vegetable and spice garden for locally grown fresh produce Community-driven immersion events and experiences designed to create meaningful connections between residents, guests, and locals Key cultural programming includes: Brazaa Square – A modern interpretation of the Zanzibari baraza , where locals and guests gather to play games, share tea, and connect in a vibrant, village-style square – A modern interpretation of the Zanzibari , where locals and guests gather to play games, share tea, and connect in a vibrant, village-style square Mama Moves – Dance classes led by local women, featuring traditional ceremonial dances – Dance classes led by local women, featuring traditional ceremonial dances Earth-to-Table Picnic – Guests handpick ingredients with local farmers and prepare fresh meals in serene natural settings 'Zanzibar presents one of the most compelling investment opportunities in emerging markets today, with ROI potential of 2 to 4 times higher than in more saturated destinations like Mauritius or the Seychelles. Backed by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA), it offers a secure and investor-friendly environment. As global interest grows and the island evolves into a premier lifestyle and tourism destination, early investors stand to benefit significantly from its rising international profile,' said Simion Nikitas – Chairman of Azure United Properties. Zanzibar's strategic development plans, improved infrastructure, and pro-investment policies continue to attract international attention. As such, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar represents a powerful blend of lifestyle, legacy, and long-term value for global investors. This latest venture by Kerten Hospitality and Azure United Properties will provide lifestyle living with a contempory aesthetic and local soul and contribute to the thriving community of Zanzibar.
Syyaha
08-05-2025
- Business
- Syyaha
Kerten Hospitality and Azure Announce The House Residence Azure Zanzibar — A Landmark All-Villa Resort in One of Africa's Fastest-Growing Destinations
Dubai, 8 May 2025 –Kerten Hospitality, a global lifestyle hospitality operator, and Azure United Properties have unveiled their newest project: The House Residence Azure Zanzibar—a luxury, all-villa resort and residential community on the pristine Michamvi Peninsula. The announcement was made during Arabian Travel Market in Dubai in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Mudrick Ramadhan Soragha, Minister of Tourism of Zanzibar, underscoring the government's support for high-impact, sustainable tourism and lifestyle developments. Poised to become a new benchmark for contemporary, conscious living in East Africa, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar is not only a resort—it is a unique real estate investment opportunity, with a curated collection of 93 ocean-view villas available for sale, of which 16 stunning over water villas. Each residence offers investors and buyers a rare chance to own property in a market experiencing rapid economic and tourism growth, with Zanzibar emerging as one of the continent's top lifestyle and hospitality destinations. 'This is more than just a development—it's a commitment to co-create a new era for Zanzibar and invest with intention,' said Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality. 'With tourism arrivals jumping by 14.2% year-on-year and crossing the one million mark in 2024, Zanzibar is gaining serious global momentum. For forward-thinking investors, this project offers a rare chance to be part of a carefully curated lifestyle that blends comfort and conscious living, rooted in community and culture.' The resort, scheduled for handover by Q4 2026, spans 60.000 sqm of lush coastal terrain within a protected mangrove reserve. Each villa is thoughtfully designed to blend modern architectural lines with Swahili design influences and locally sourced materials, including traditional Makuti roofing. Villas feature panoramic sunset views over the Indian Ocean and are crafted with sustainability at their core—powered by solar energy, equipped with biodigesters, and landscaped to support microclimate development. Lifestyle Investment with a Local Soul The House Residence not only offers strong Return on Investment through capital appreciation, rental income potential and operational efficiency, but also through a clear 'Return on Community' by supporting local artisans, suppliers and businesses, contributing to social impact programmes in education, sustainability and heritage preservation, and operating with responsible, low-footprint practices. Owners will benefit from hospitality driven real estate, where ownership comes with access to a managed lifestyle with boutique -style services and tailored amenities focused on wellbeing, creativity and cultural immersion. Exclusive amenties include: • Two destination dining venues including a speciality over water restaurant• A wellness center• An outdoor cinema, adult and family pool, kids club, retail outlets, and event and co-working spaces• A vegetable and spice garden for locally grown fresh produce• Community-driven immersion events and experiences designed to create meaningful connections between residents, guests, and localsKey cultural programming includes:• Brazaa Square – A modern interpretation of the Zanzibari baraza, where locals and guests gather to play games, share tea, and connect in a vibrant, village-style square• Mama Moves – Dance classes led by local women, featuring traditional ceremonial dances • Earth-to-Table Picnic – Guests handpick ingredients with local farmers and prepare fresh meals in serene natural settings 'Zanzibar presents one of the most compelling investment opportunities in emerging markets today, with ROI potential of 2 to 4 times higher than in more saturated destinations like Mauritius or the Seychelles. Backed by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA), it offers a secure and investor-friendly environment. As global interest grows and the island evolves into a premier lifestyle and tourism destination, early investors stand to benefit significantly from its rising international profile,' said Simion Nikitas – Chairman of Azure United Properties. Zanzibar's strategic development plans, improved infrastructure, and pro-investment policies continue to attract international attention. As such, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar represents a powerful blend of lifestyle, legacy, and long-term value for global investors. This latest venture by Kerten Hospitality and Azure United Properties will provide lifestyle living with a contempory aesthetic and local soul and contribute to the thriving community of Zanzibar.
Hospitality Net
08-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Kerten Hospitality and Azure Announce The House Residence Azure Zanzibar — A Landmark All-Villa Resort in One of Africa's Fastest-Growing Destinations
Kerten Hospitality, a global lifestyle hospitality operator, and Azure United Properties have unveiled their newest project: The House Residence Azure Zanzibar—a luxury, all-villa resort and residential community on the pristine Michamvi Peninsula. The announcement was made during Arabian Travel Market in Dubai in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Mudrick Ramadhan Soragha, Minister of Tourism of Zanzibar, underscoring the government's support for high-impact, sustainable tourism and lifestyle developments. Poised to become a new benchmark for contemporary, conscious living in East Africa, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar is not only a resort—it is a unique real estate investment opportunity, with a curated collection of 93 ocean-view villas available for sale, of which 16 stunning over water villas. Each residence offers investors and buyers a rare chance to own property in a market experiencing rapid economic and tourism growth, with Zanzibar emerging as one of the continent's top lifestyle and hospitality destinations. The resort, scheduled for handover by Q4 2026, spans 60.000 sqm of lush coastal terrain within a protected mangrove reserve. Each villa is thoughtfully designed to blend modern architectural lines with Swahili design influences and locally sourced materials, including traditional Makuti roofing. Villas feature panoramic sunset views over the Indian Ocean and are crafted with sustainability at their core—powered by solar energy, equipped with biodigesters, and landscaped to support microclimate development. Lifestyle Investment with a Local Soul The House Residence not only offers strong Return on Investment through capital appreciation, rental income potential and operational efficiency, but also through a clear 'Return on Community' by supporting local artisans, suppliers and businesses, contributing to social impact programmes in education, sustainability and heritage preservation, and operating with responsible, low-footprint practices. Owners will benefit from hospitality driven real estate, where ownership comes with access to a managed lifestyle with boutique -style services and tailored amenities focused on wellbeing, creativity and cultural immersion. Exclusive amenties include: Two destination dining venues including a speciality over water restaurant A wellness center An outdoor cinema, adult and family pool, kids club, retail outlets, and event and co-working spaces A vegetable and spice garden for locally grown fresh produce Community-driven immersion events and experiences designed to create meaningful connections between residents, guests, and locals Key cultural programming includes: Brazaa Square - A modern interpretation of the Zanzibari baraza , where locals and guests gather to play games, share tea, and connect in a vibrant, village-style square - A modern interpretation of the Zanzibari , where locals and guests gather to play games, share tea, and connect in a vibrant, village-style square Mama Moves - Dance classes led by local women, featuring traditional ceremonial dances - Dance classes led by local women, featuring traditional ceremonial dances Earth-to-Table Picnic - Guests handpick ingredients with local farmers and prepare fresh meals in serene natural settings Zanzibar's strategic development plans, improved infrastructure, and pro-investment policies continue to attract international attention. As such, The House Residence Azure Zanzibar represents a powerful blend of lifestyle, legacy, and long-term value for global investors. This latest venture by Kerten Hospitality and Azure United Properties will provide lifestyle living with a contempory aesthetic and local soul and contribute to the thriving community of Zanzibar. Hotel website
