During Ramadan, Muslims, who constitute over 95% of Zanzibar’s population, engage in fasting from dawn to dusk. This sacred practice includes abstaining from food, drink, and smoking during daylight hours. While these restrictions do not apply to Zanzibar’s visitors, it is advisable to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight out of respect for the local customs. Additionally, public displays of affection, such as kissing, are frowned upon and may offend Zanzibar’s cultural and religious norms.
The observance of Ramadan also affects some business operations, with altered hours for services such as transportation, dining, and shopping. For instance, our local offices in Zanzibar will operate from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Friday and from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays.
The hours immediately following the breaking of the fast, from 6:15 PM to 7:15 PM, see Stone Town become significantly quieter. As most shops are closed, we suggest visitors remain in their hotel until after 7:15 PM. Then, Stone Town comes alive with activity.
The Commission for Tourism in Zanzibar mandates that restaurants not located within hotels remain closed during daylight hours and that hotels and resorts limit food and beverage services to their premises.
While sightseeing tours and excursions will continue as scheduled, some flexibility may be necessary, as dining options will be limited. Retail and cultural establishments, including shops and museums, will close by 5:00 PM. Additionally, live entertainment and dancing are subdued throughout Ramadan to honour the period’s solemnity.
Visitors staying a beach resort will generally not be affected by the Ramadan restrictions followed by the local residents. The same is true of larger hotels in Stone Town. Most excursions will also operate as normal.
