COMPETING destinations like Mauritius and the Seychelles, lacking mandatory health insurance policy usable within Zanzibar, may start becoming more attractive to potential visitors.

Ephata Nanyaro, the Tanzania Local Tour Operators (TLTO) public relations officer, said in a statement yesterday that the formally approved mandatory travel insurance, contains seeds of destruction in the local tourism industry.

The statement comes up as more tourism sector operators raise caution to the Zanzibar authorities on the formal start of the $44 mandatory travel insurance requirement set to kick off on Tuesday next week.

An explicit insurance policy will be required for all foreign tourists visiting Zanzibar in addition to the Tanzania e-Visa, which he said would have a negative impact on both travellers and local tourism businesses.

It potentially alters the appeal of Zanzibar as a vacation destination, he said, noting that Zanzibar has traditionally been seen as an affordable option for travellers seeking beautiful beaches and rich culture.

However, the new cost of mandatory travel insurance may deter budget tourists, especially those who have become more cautious about spending in the post-pandemic period, he asserted.

Zanzibar technocrats are seemingly unaware that foreign travellers already have travel insurance usually tied with credit cards or as employer benefits, he said, noting that having to purchase additional local insurance may frustrate many of them.

Perceptions that Zanzibar regulations are overly burdensome will come up, affecting the island's reputation as a hassle-free travel option, he asserted, noting his experience as tour guide and tour operator.

Tourists often prefer insurance plans that cater to their specific needs, such as coverage for adventurous activities or pre-existing medical conditions, he pointed out, underlining that by mandating a particular insurance policy, Zanzibar risks alienating those who value the freedom to choose coverage tailored to their unique circumstances.

Zanzibar’s tourism industry, which relies on both budget and luxury travellers may struggle as the new insurance requirement raises overall travel costs, This will touch off a decline in tourist numbers and revenue for local businesses, he specified, elaborating that increased costs and hassle associated with mandatory insurance may lead to a reduction in bookings for tour operators, travel agencies and airlines promoting Zanzibar.

 “Repeat visitors in particular might reconsider their travel plans if they feel constrained by the new insurance requirement, opting instead for locations with fewer restrictions,” he stated.

Local businesses will face new operational hurdles as they adapt to the mandatory insurance policy, in educating clients about the new requirements and ensuring compliance as it will demand additional resources, thus higher operational costs.

Managing customer dissatisfaction regarding the insurance mandate could further strain local providers, as mandatory travel insurance for visitors to Zanzibar is supposedly intended to enhance traveller safety.

Yet its financial implications may deter visitors and complicate operations for local tourism businesses, in which case the Tanzania Local Tour Operators needs to advocate for a balanced approach that protects both tourists and the local tourism economy. This will ensure that Zanzibar remains an appealing destination in a competitive market, the statement added.