About Sufism in Zanzibar
A spiritual tradition woven into the fabric of Swahili coastal culture for centuries
Historical Roots
Sufism arrived in Zanzibar with Arab and Persian traders along the Indian Ocean trade routes as early as the 12th century. These spiritual traditions merged with existing Swahili practices, creating a unique blend of Islamic mysticism and East African cultural expressions.
Stone Town became a center for Sufi learning, with zawiyas (Sufi lodges) serving as spaces for spiritual practice, education, and community gatherings. The annual Maulidi celebrations honoring the Prophet Muhammad's birthday became major spiritual and cultural events.
Today, Zanzibar remains a living tapestry of Sufi traditions, where ancient practices meet contemporary expressions in music, poetry, and community life.
Cultural Expressions
Qasida & Maulidi
Devotional poetry and hymns sung in Arabic and Swahili during celebrations
Taarab Music
Unique musical blend of Arab, Indian, and African influences
Spiritual Retreats
Khalwa periods of seclusion and contemplation in zawiyas
Core Principles
- Unity and interconnectedness of all beings
- Divine love as the path to spiritual awakening
- Remembrance (dhikr) through music, poetry, and dance
- Service to community and spiritual guidance
- Inner purification and direct experience of the Divine
- Tolerance and acceptance of all spiritual paths
Festival's Purpose
The Zanzibar Sufi Fest aims to preserve these living traditions while creating space for contemporary expressions. We bring together masters and students, locals and visitors, in a celebration of spiritual heritage.
“Where there is ruin, there is hope for a treasure.”
— Rumi