The Safest Bets: Top 4 Property Developments to Watch in Zanzibar (2026 Edition)
In the final quarter of 2025, the Tanzanian real estate market underwent what many are now calling its greatest "stress test." Following a brief period of mainland protests and the inevitable investor caution that follows, we at The Property Hub took a step back. We’ve spent the last several months silently evaluating the state of the market, and the results are in: Tanzania has not only stabilized; it has emerged more resilient.
Far from being a reason to stay away, the events of late 2025 acted as a filter. They separated the speculative "paper projects" from the institutional-grade developments that have the capital and commitment to stay the course.
Today, the message from the ground is clear: Zanzibar remains a safe, high-yield haven. With a record-breaking 2025 tourism season and the expansion of the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, the island is more open than ever for those looking to move, retire, or invest.
If you are looking for a secure entry point into the Zanzibar "Blue Economy," these are the four projects we trust.
Zanzibar City, Unguja South Region, Tanzania
1. Fumba Town (by CPS)
Status: The Proven Track Record
Fumba Town is the quintessential example of Zanzibar's long-term vision. As a pioneering master-planned city, it has faced the standard growing pains of a massive development, but it remains the island’s most reliable "safe bet."
Why we trust it: CPS has a proven track record of delivery. They have promised to deliver every unit sold, and they are doing exactly that.
TPH Insight: For those looking to move to Tanzania permanently, Fumba offers a sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere. It’s an "all-in" ecosystem where your investment is backed by a developer that has stayed the course for over a decade.
2. The Soul Paje (by CPS)
Status: The East Coast Lifestyle Leader
Also under the CPS banner, The Soul Paje is the premier choice for investors targeting Zanzibar’s booming tourism market. Located in the world-renowned kitesurfing hub of Paje, this project is designed for the modern nomad and holiday-maker.
Why we trust it: Because it’s a CPS project, it benefits from high-level management and legal security. It’s a "repeat success" model—investors can trust the same delivery standards seen in Fumba Town, applied to a high-demand coastal location.
TPH Insight: The Soul Paje is perfect for the "lock-up-and-go" investor. It’s a secure, professionally managed asset that feeds directly into the island's record tourism numbers.
3. Sandbank Villas (by Johari Developers)
Status: The Independent Powerhouse
If you want to eliminate "construction risk," Sandbank Villas by Johari Developers is the gold standard. In an environment where some developers rely solely on pre-sales to fund construction, Johari has built a fortress.
Why we trust it: Johari Developers owns the entire value chain. They own the materials, the architects are in-house, and their sister company (AHC) is the contractor.
TPH Insight: Because they are vertically integrated, they are immune to the liquidity issues that often stall smaller projects. They have the resources to finish their builds regardless of market fluctuations. It is a secure, self-funded powerhouse.
4. Infinity Hills (by Infinity Developments)
Status: The Institutional Choice
Infinity Hills is for the investor who wants institutional-grade security. While it carries a premium price tag, the backing behind this project is immense.
Why we trust it: Infinity Developments is a highly liquid global player. Their Zanzibar projects are backed by significant capital reserves, allowing them to construct at full capacity without waiting for external funding.
TPH Insight: We’ve placed this at number four only because of the hefty price tag. However, for those with the budget, it represents the highest level of "blue-chip" security on the island. It’s a safe, liquid, and prestigious investment.
The Verdict: Is Zanzibar Still the Right Move?
The brief period of caution in late 2025 has paved the way for a more mature, transparent market in 2026. For those looking to relocate, Zanzibar offers a "Golden Visa" through investment in ZIPA-approved projects, allowing you and your family to call this paradise home.
The secret to a successful investment today is looking at the developer's balance sheet and supply chain. We recommend Fumba Town and The Soul Paje for established reliability, and Johari Developers' Sandbank Villas or Infinity Hills for those who prioritize total financial and construction independence.
Ready to explore the island with an expert eye? Contact us today. We have done the due diligence, so you can invest with confidence.
