Opened in 1997, Zanzibar Serena Hotel was created by restoring and rehabilitating two historic buildings, The 19th century old Extelcoms building and the 18th century “Chinese doctor’s residence”. In so doing, the original architectural integrity of the buildings and their decorative finishes both exterior and interior were meticulously protected and where necessary, restored.

These interior and exterior spaces reflect a blend of early 19th century cultural influences typical of the Sultans of Zanzibar. In Zanzibar Serena Hotel, guests thus, experience and connect with the history, culture and lifestyle of what is today recognized as the “Zanzibar Style”.

As part of the visual fabric of Stone Town, this respectful transformation was one of the factors that led to the declaration by UNESCO of Stone Town as a World Heritage site.