Hilton, TUI, Riu: hotel giants bet big on Zanzibar in 2026

A massive influx of hotel investments

Zanzibar is experiencing an unprecedented wave of investments. The archipelago currently has over 1,300 projects under development, with a total estimated value of US$14.3 billion. More than half of these investments are directly linked to the tourism sector, reflecting international investors' confidence in the destination's potential.

Among the most notable announcements, Hilton is making its debut in Zanzibar with a beachfront resort, a first for the American chain on the archipelago. This flagship project illustrates the island's growing attractiveness to major international hotel groups, which have long focused on more established destinations on the African continent.

TUI and Riu strengthen their presence

Tourism giant TUI has also reinforced its footprint with the opening of The Mora, an upscale property complementing its local portfolio. Meanwhile, Spanish chain Riu has deployed two new hotels on the island, capitalizing on the growing demand from European travelers seeking quality all-inclusive packages in a tropical setting.

On the eco-luxury front, the ENVI concept offers a new approach to upscale accommodation, combining contemporary comfort with environmental commitment. This positioning responds to a fundamental trend among international travelers, who are increasingly conscious of the ecological impact of their stays.

Minor Hotels and Anantara: Asian luxury arrives

Thai group Minor Hotels continues its expansion in Zanzibar through its Anantara brand, synonymous with refined luxury inspired by local traditions. This development strategy illustrates the growing interest of Asian operators in East Africa, considered a market with high growth potential. These combined investments are set to transform the archipelago's hotel landscape and contribute to its positioning among the world's most sought-after beach destinations.