Iberostar Hotels & Resorts has marked its entry into the Tanzanian market with the debut of the Iberostar Selection Zanzibar, a five-star property located on Muyuni Beach. The opening represents a strategic milestone for the Spanish hotel group as it extends its footprint into East Africa, a region increasingly attractive to international travellers seeking beachfront luxury combined with cultural authenticity.
The new resort is a key component of Iberostar's €1 billion investment programme running through 2028, which encompasses new developments, property renovations, and sustainability-led initiatives. The group has been vocal about its commitment to responsible tourism, and the Zanzibar property is designed to embody that ethos from the ground up.
Design and amenities
The Iberostar Selection Zanzibar features 358 rooms and suites, many offering views of Mnemba Island, a renowned diving and snorkelling spot. The architecture and interior design draw on Zanzibar's rich cultural tapestry, blending African and Arabic influences to create a sense of place that resonates with the island's history as a trading hub.
Guests can choose from six restaurants serving a mix of international and local cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and Zanzibari spices. The resort also offers multiple outdoor swimming pools, a full-service spa, and a dive centre, catering to both relaxation seekers and adventure enthusiasts.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability is not an afterthought at this property. Iberostar has trained more than 330 local employees in environmentally responsible practices, ensuring that the resort's operations align with the group's broader Wave of Change movement. A dedicated '3R' team focuses on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, while an on-site glass bottling plant significantly cuts down on single-use plastic.
The resort also collaborates with local enterprises, such as CHAKO, which transforms waste materials into handcrafted products, creating a circular economy that benefits the surrounding community. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also fosters economic opportunities for local artisans.
Zanzibar, often called the Spice Island, is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and UNESCO-listed Stone Town. The new resort positions Iberostar to capitalise on the island's growing appeal as a premium destination, while also supporting the Tanzanian government's efforts to boost tourism as a key economic driver.
Iberostar operates more than 80 hotels across 13 countries, and its Tanzania debut reinforces its strategy to expand in prime beachfront destinations. The group's focus on balancing business growth with environmental protection is likely to resonate with travel professionals who are increasingly prioritising sustainability in their offerings.
For travel agents and tour operators, the Iberostar Selection Zanzibar adds a new option for clients seeking a high-end beach holiday with a strong sustainability narrative. The resort's location on Muyuni Beach, away from the busier northern coast, offers a more secluded experience, which could appeal to honeymooners and luxury travellers.
As East Africa continues to attract investment in hospitality, Iberostar's entry sets a benchmark for how international brands can integrate local culture and environmental stewardship into their operations. The group's €1 billion plan signals long-term commitment to the region, with further developments likely to follow.
