According to the National Bureau of Statistics, 99% of the population in Zanzibar are Muslims. When in Zanzibar it is fine to wear what you want while you are on the beach, but once you enter the village or town area where the locals live it is important that both men and women consider strongly what to wear.
What to wear men and woman
Islamic religion requires both men and women to dress with modesty, simplicity, and dignity. For a Muslim man, he must always cover himself in loose and unrevealing clothing from his navel to his knee. For a Muslim woman, she must at least cover her body and hair in loose and unrevealing clothing, obscuring the details of her body from the public when leaving the house. Once you visit the town or village where locals live having the right dress code is highly appreciated and shows respect to the native, culture and religious values.
Adapt the culture
Zanzibar will always remain to be a semi-autonomous with its own unique history, culture, customs, and norms. This remarkable island has been overwhelmed with people from all over the world, but a strict Muslim heritage has remained the most perceptible impact. Zanzibar attracts a steady number of tourists on holiday, but unfortunately, not everyone takes the time to understand or appreciate the Islamic culture or, most obvious, research what is appropriate to wear. Since Zanzibar is a Muslim country, here are suggestions and guidelines you might want to follow when visiting local villages and Stone Town:
Dress tips for Zanzibar
For both men and women, you might want to pack a couple of clothes that cover the shoulders and it is advisable to wear trousers or shorts which at least cover their knees.
No transparent clothes during your tour to the Stone Town or any local village.
Do not wear bathing suits or other beachwear in the village and Stone Town.
Try to avoid tops with open shoulders and/or deep cleavage when roaming around town or the local village.
Along beaches wearing bathing suits is generally accepted, bikinis are ok, but definitely not thongs and do not go topless.
Showing this kind of respect for their Islamic traditions, you will be respected back by Zanzibar people.
A Guide on what to pack for make sure dress properly
Clothes
Its recommended to carefully select 1-2 outfits a day. This includes an outfit for day time and one during the night time (party outfit or maybe dining outfit). You can carry a bonus light cardigan for the cold nights. You might want to choose your clothes according to the activities scheduled for the day.
Beachwear
It is recommended carrying 2-3 pieces with a cover-up or a scarf together with a sunhat and sunglasses.
Footwear
2-3 pairs of shoes. Pack a pair of sandals, beach slippers, comfortable wear sneakers for a Stone Town tour or village tour. You can bring a pair of comfortable heels but not necessary unless you are having a classic dinner party.
Health and Hygiene
You are advised to pack necessary medication such as malaria pills, and allergy medication. Pack normal size products such as toothpaste, lotion, sunscreen, toothbrush, sanitary napkins for women, mosquito repellent, wet wipes and anything you think you might need during your stay.
Zanzibar is an amazing place to visit on holiday, vacation or honeymoon. Despite it being a top destination, it’s also home to the locals. People live there, children go to school, locals make a living and raise their families on the island. If Zanzibar people witness foreigners defying their culture, religion, and customs every day, it’s won’t be a good impression. Almost every person you meet on this amazingly beautiful and historical island will greet you with the utmost respect. You might want to return the favor by dressing appropriately and appreciate Zanzibar culture.