Unguja North Region

Unguja North hosts Zanzibar's beach resort strip along the northeastern coast—Nungwi, Kendwa, and Matemwe draw the bulk of leisure tourists seeking Indian Ocean beaches. The region's coral reefs support snorkeling and dive operations. Seaweed farming (primarily Eucheuma cottonii) provides alternative income for coastal women. Traditional dhow-building persists alongside modern tourism. The contrast between luxury resorts and subsistence farming creates economic stratification. Marine protected areas attempt to balance tourism pressure with ecosystem conservation. Average tourist stay increased to 7 nights in 2024.