Dar es Salaam. The Match of the Legends, featuring Brazilian football stars in Zanzibar on July 27, 2025, at the Amaan Complex, is expected to serve as a major catalyst for the island’s tourism sector, according to the event’s organisers.
With a series of activities aimed at highlighting the island’s cultural and natural attractions, during the Brazil Week, this football spectacle presents unparalleled opportunities to showcase Zanzibar to a global audience.
“Legendary footballers such as Ronaldinho Gaúcho, Kaka, and Júlio Cesar, along with Zanzibar’s top talents, will participate,” the statement issued to the media on April 27, 2025, reads in part.
A special tourism tour of Zanzibar for the Brazilian football players will be a key highlight of the event.
Accompanied by both local and international media, the tour will focus on the island’s iconic landmarks, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture.
This initiative will serve as a powerful marketing tool, promoting Zanzibar as a must-visit destination for travellers worldwide.
Brazil Week will feature a diverse cultural experience, with events including Brazilian Carnival celebrations, food tastings, and BBQ activities.
Hosted at Mnazi Mmoja ground, this series of festivities will offer visitors and locals alike the chance to experience a fusion of Brazilian culture with Zanzibar’s unique heritage.
It provides a rare opportunity for tourists to indulge in the rhythms, flavours, and vibrancy of Brazil while exploring Zanzibar’s stunning beauty.
The event’s international broadcast, in partnership with Azam Media, BBC Africa, and Globo Media, will give Zanzibar extensive exposure to over 800 million viewers globally, bringing the island’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions into homes across the world.
This global reach presents an invaluable opportunity to position Zanzibar as a top-tier tourism destination.
Fan Village
The Fan Village, set up around Amaan Stadium, will further engage visitors with a variety of local and international brands, offering everything from traditional Zanzibar crafts to international cuisine.
This vibrant space will allow tourists to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the event.
The involvement of global sponsors and local businesses will also provide significant visibility for Zanzibar’s tourism offerings.
Beyond the match itself, the gala dinner featuring President Dr Hussein Mwinyi and Brazil’s football stars will offer an exclusive opportunity for high-profile guests to experience Zanzibar’s renowned hospitality.
The event’s live coverage ensures that the island will be showcased to an international audience, enhancing its appeal as both a luxury and cultural tourism destination.
For those keen to explore Zanzibar’s natural wonders, the post-match tourism initiatives will continue to shine.
The farewell press conference, alongside the unveiling of a sports academy partnership between Brazil and Zanzibar, promises to leave a lasting legacy for the island’s tourism sector, reinforcing Zanzibar’s growing status as a prominent international sports and tourism hub.
Endorsement
The ministry of Tourism and Heritage in Zanzibar has officially endorsed the Match of the Legends, recognising it as a strategic avenue to promote Zanzibar’s tourism offerings, cultural vibrancy, and international profile through football.
The ministry acknowledges the significant role of such events in positioning Zanzibar as a premier destination for sports tourism.
The Match of the Legends is co-organised by Ocean Business Partners (OBP) and Fauzi Sports from Brazil, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports Zanzibar.
The participation of legendary footballers, alongside Zanzibar’s top talents, underscores the event’s international appeal and transformative potential.
Principal Secretary of the ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, has expressed the ministry’s readiness to engage, support promotional efforts, and create synergy to ensure the event’s success.
“The ministry is committed to collaborating with the organisers to deliver an unforgettable experience for football fans and promote Zanzibar to the world,” he said in a statement on April 27, 2025.
For further coordination and engagement, individuals are encouraged to contact Commercial Manager, Mr Eddie Mhina.
