Tanzania’s tourism sees new dawn after Royal Tour’s spadework

NGORONGORO: Tanzania’s tourism has hit heights just a few years after the Royal Tour documentary hit the globe.

That was unveiled today by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abbasi, who underscored the major role played by the Royal Tour documentary in boosting Tanzania’s tourism sector and elevating the country’s visibility in the global market.

Speaking at Ngorongoro during the World Tourism Day celebrations, Dr Abbasi said the documentary, launched in 2022 by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, opened a new chapter in promoting Tanzania by uniquely showcasing the country’s tourist attractions, cultural heritage, and investment opportunities.

“Royal Tour was not just an ordinary documentary, it was a bridge that reintroduced Tanzania to the world. We have witnessed a significant increase in tourist arrivals as well as renewed interest from international investors,” Dr Abbasi said.

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He added that within three years of its release, Tanzania had recorded a surge in visitors from new markets such as the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. At the same time, revenues from the sector had grown, creating thousands of jobs for youth and women.

“Today, when we visit our national parks or leading hotels, we meet guests who were inspired to come after watching Royal Tour. This is clear evidence that Tanzania has now secured a place of honor on the world tourism map,” he emphasized.

Dr Abbasi urged stakeholders — particularly the private sector, local governments, and communities living around tourist sites — to continue leveraging the documentary as a marketing tool, while also stressing the importance of protecting the environment and preserving heritage for future generations.

This year’s World Tourism Day is celebrated under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” highlighting the importance of building a tourism sector that benefits people while safeguarding heritage and the environment.