Kudos Zanzibar for award

DAR ES SALAAM: ZANZIBAR has been presented with the Africa’s Best Corporate Retreat Destination Award during the 2025 World Travel Awards held in the Kingdom of Bahrain on the Persian Gulf. The award was formally presented to the Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Mwinyi by the Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism of the Union Government, Mr Hamad Hassan Chande, who brought the accolade to Zanzibar.

This is the first time Zanzibar has won the prestigious Africa’s Best Corporate Retreat Destination Award, triumphing over four competitors: Kenya, South Africa, Morocco and Botswana.

World Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in MICE tourism. World MICE Awards is the sister event of World Travel Awards.

The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading MICE brands. Votes were cast by MICE industry professionals and the public, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named the winner.

There were dozens of reasons for Zanzibar to emerge a top destination. It has stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and rich history, offering a unique mix of relaxation, adventure and culture with attractions like Stone Town.

This is the historic heart of Zanzibar City, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian and European cultures. It is evident in its maze-like alleys, coral stone buildings with intricate doors, bustling markets and rich trading history as a major Indian Ocean hub.

Visitors explore sites like the Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens (night food market), House of Wonders, shops for local crafts (batiks, chests), take sunset dhow cruises and visit nearby Prison Island.

There are spice tours, plus incredible diving, unique wildlife and delicious food, making it a versatile paradise for all travellers. Visitors are always pleased with stunning beaches and marine life.

Pristine coastlines: Famous for soft white sands, swaying palms and clear, warm Indian Ocean waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Diving and snorkeling: Rich coral reefs and abundant marine life, including dolphins, make it ideal for underwater exploration.

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Zanzibar has a rich history and culture. Spice Island: People experience spice farms, learning about cloves, vanilla and other spices that shaped its history.

As for nature and wildlife, Zanzibar is rich in red colobus monkeys – the playful primates that are found in Jozani Forest. With all those and more, Zanzibar deserved the award and rightly given. Kudos Zanzibar Government.