#Zanzibar introduces mandatory travel insurance for inbound tourists

 

(Posted 02nd September 2024)

 

 

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Here’s what you need to know about the new requirements which are becoming effective on the 01st of October this year and are mandatory for all foreign visitors to the island:

1. The requirement takes effect on 1st October 2024.
2. Your travel insurance must be purchased exclusively from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) before your trip.
3. The insurance covers up to 92 days of your stay.
4. Don’t forget to carry proof of insurance! Non-compliance could result in being denied entry.

 

Notably are international insurance companies disqualified and excluded to provide such a cover as only the local Zanzibar Insurance Corporation is allowed to issue coverage – by many seen as just another kind of tax on tourists, most of whom arrive anyway with vacation insurance coverage for accidents, health and if needed medevac flights.

It is expected that a number of tourism organisations and especially overseas travel agents and tour operators will protest about this ‘innovation’ which, according to immediate feedback received, is seen as yet another blow to a free market economy and counterproductive to promoting the island as a preferred destination.

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