Dazzling destination for Tanzanian tourists

TANZANIA: AS the world counts down to Expo 2025 in Dubai, Tanzanians are being encouraged to view the UAE city not just as a land of skyscrapers and luxury shopping, but as a diverse, inclusive, and culturally rich travel destination.

The Dubai Expo 2025 Roadshow was held this week in Dar es Salaam aimed to deepen economic and cultural ties between the two countries and promote tourism as a bridge between innovation, affordability, and opportunity.

The event, hosted at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, attracted a wide range of stakeholders from Tanzania’s trade, agriculture, sustainability, and tech sectors. But at the heart of the discussion was tourism both the opportunities it offers and the hurdles that still need to be overcome.

Dubai has long been seen as a playground for the wealthy, where gold-plated cars and rooftop infinity pools dominate Instagram feeds. But speakers from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) emphasized that the city’s identity is far more layered than its glitzy surface might suggest.

“While we are proud of our five-star hotels, we also offer a wide range of one- to three-star options,” said Ms Amna Bin Hendi, Senior Manager at DET. “Even a three-star hotel in Dubai can feel like a five-star elsewhere.”

For Tanzanian travelers who may assume Dubai is out of reach financially, this message was a welcome one. Ms Amna, highlighted more affordable accommodations such as the Rove Hotels chain, located in prime areas like Downtown Dubai and La Mer. “They offer great value and excellent access to key attractions,” she said.

Why Tanzanians should visit

For tourists from Tanzania, Dubai holds a unique allure. It is a short and convenient flight from Dar es Salaam less than six hours and offers visa-on-arrival access for Tanzanian passport holders. This makes it a far more accessible international destination than many Western countries.

Culturally, Dubai presents an exciting blend of traditional Arab heritage and modern cosmopolitan life. Tanzanian visitors can immerse themselves in free or low-cost attractions such as the Al Fahidi Historical District, a well-preserved area showcasing the city’s pre-oil boom roots.

Walking through its winding alleyways, one can see traditional wind-tower architecture and museums chronicling Dubai’s rise from a fishing village to a global metropolis.

One particularly popular activity is the ride across Dubai Creek in a traditional Abra boat it less than a dollar, it’s one of the best budget-friendly experiences. Nearby, the bustling spice and gold souks provide a sensory overload of smells, sights, and sounds that Tanzanians, who are no strangers to lively marketplaces, will find both familiar and fascinating.

“There’s also great street food,” added Ms Bin Hendi. “For travelers on a budget, our local cuisine is not only affordable but incredibly diverse.” From shawarmas and falafels to South Asian curries and African inspired dishes, Dubai’s food scene mirrors its status as a cultural melting pot.

A trip to the Dubai Frame offers more than just Instagram worthy views. It’s a visual journey of the city’s transformation—from the humble low-rise beginnings of old Dubai to the futuristic skyline dominated by the Burj.

Despite Dubai’s appeal, tourism is not without its issues. One major concern is the perception gap. Many Tanzanians still see Dubai as exclusive a place only the very rich can afford. Changing that image requires continued efforts from both the UAE government and local travel agencies to promote the city’s affordable side.

There is also the challenge of information access. Many Tanzanian travelers are unaware of the wide range of free or low-cost attractions available in Dubai. Without proper guidance, they may default to expensive packages that donot reflect the city’s full offering.

Future of Tanzania-Dubai tourism ties

Events like the Dubai Expo 2025 Roadshow are crucial in bridging these gaps. They provide platforms for knowledge sharing, business partnerships, and the promotion of mutual interests. More importantly, they help position Dubai as a dynamic and welcoming city that values cultural exchange.

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“Tanzania is a key partner for us, not just economically, but culturally and socially,” said Ms Amna. “We want more Tanzanians to come and see Dubai for what it really is open, exciting, and full of possibility.”

As Tanzania looks to expand its global footprint and provide its citizens with new travel horizons, Dubai emerges as a compelling option not just for its glitz, but for its warmth, history, and accessibility.

For Tanzanians with a spirit of adventure and a modest budget, Dubai might just be the unexpected destination of their dreams.