Zanzibar has implemented a significant regulatory change that affects all real estate developments on the island, strengthening the framework for property investment and market integrity.

As of early October 2025, the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) has introduced a mandatory registration and approval requirement for all real estate projects before any marketing or sales can begin. 

This means that developers must now submit their projects to ZIPA and receive formal authorization before offering properties publicly or promoting developments to buyers and investors.

The new rule is designed to enhance transparency, protect buyers, and ensure proper oversight of development activity as Zanzibar’s property market continues to attract interest from both domestic and international investors. 

By requiring registration upfront, the government aims to reduce unregulated or informal sales practices and to provide a clear legal foundation for investment in the real estate sector.

Under the updated process, developers must provide project details, planned timelines, and compliance documentation to ZIPA for evaluation and approval. 

Only after authorization can marketing, sales, and promotional activities begin  a step intended to build investor confidence and elevate standards across the market.