Settling-in Tips from Staff at Crown Dar Es Salaam

What is special or unique about your city?

Dar es Salaam is a fusion of African, Arabian, Asian and some European cultures. The town is over five centuries old and has been written about by ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians; later by Persians, Arabs and even the Chinese. The coast's brutal history has been shaped both by its geographic position on the edge of Africa, and by the monsoon system of the western Indian Ocean, which brought it within reach of sailing ships from Arabia, India and the Far East. Tanzanians are extremely friendly and will stop to assist you in any way they can.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Dar es Salaam, if arriving by air, is a vast area sprawling with high palm trees and mud dwellings as far as the eye can see. Once on the ground the trip from the airport is generally very warm and the road into the city centre is probably the best you will see. The buildings are haphazardly constructed and not very clean. By contrast the international hotels are of good quality and well situated to take advantage of the sea views. The city is divided into 4 distinct areas: The town centre, which is a mixture of office buildings, hotels, restaurants, bars, night clubs, parks and sports facilities. The peninsular, where most of the diplomatic corps and expatriates live, with good views of the sea and a sprinkling of restaurants, shops, hotels and sailing club. Then, there are the coastal homes and resorts which reach 20 to 30 kilometres north and south of Dar es Salaam. The remainder of the city, unfortunately, is a mass of low-cost housing with a large population of three to four million people living close to the poverty line.

Are these impressions likely to change?

The change from socialism to a more capitalist-aligned government in the last 15 years, and the influx of diplomats, big business and foreign aid donations has resulted in a gradual upliftment of the local population, and of course the infrastructure and public facilities are improving by the year. Once frequent power failures are being replaced by occasional loss of power. Water and sewage remain high on Government's list of priorities.

What is the local language?

Swahili is the official language, but English is the main language of communication in business.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

A person can function quite easily in the city without knowing the local language, but learning Swahili does make it easier to obtain things cheaper and more briskly.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Being polite and greeting Tanzanians is the most important thing you can remember and preferably in a Swahili.
Try not to raise your voice, even if patience is tested. Dar es Salaam is a Muslim town and one has to be very understanding of the Muslim customs.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Dar es Salaam is extremely hot most of the year around and unless you have an office or house equipped with fans or a good air-conditioning system, you will feel drained by the high temperatures which are generally 30 C, and in summer, closer to 40 C with humidity very close to 100 percent. Torrential showers come and go without much notice. One can escape from the heat on weekends by going to one of the many beaches.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

A very cosmopolitan city with many cultures, religions, languages, restaurants and shops. Driving around the city can be very congested especially between 7 and 9 in the morning, 12 and 2 in the afternoon, and between 4 and 8 in the evening.

Useful Links

There are many very informative books and magazines on Tanzania and especially Dar es Salaam.
1. The Rough Guide to Tanzania. www.roughguides.com or AOL keyword; Rough Guides. This company also issues similar books on Zanzibar and Swahili.
2. A locally produced book by Corona Society is called The New Comer's Guide to Dar es Salaam
Once in Dar es Salaam, there is a weekly magazine which is free and available in most public places, and is a wonderful guide to what goes on in Dar es Salaam, but also gives valuable information for essential services.
In addition, there is a monthly publication which has a host of information on the tourist spots.

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Foreigners seeking to enter Tanzania should have a valid passport. The passport is to be presented to an Immigration officer at any entry point, border station, airport, or harbour. It must be presented with one of the following:
A valid visa. (Visitor only)
A residence permit. (this means that for the duration of your permit you are a Tanzanian resident)
A pass. (In transit)

What kinds of visas are available?

There are five types of visa's
Ordinary Visa. This is issued at any Tanzanian mission abroad. However, if you arrive at the check point without a visa, you can obtain one at the entry point at a cost of US$ 50.
Business Visa. This is issued to potential investors, or business people trying to establish professional contacts. The validity can vary from one to six months. The cost varies according to the length of stay, but starts at US$100.
Multiple-Entry Visa. These are issued to foreigners who, due to business commitments, are required to make multiple entries. The validity can be for one month to one year.
Referred Visa. This type of visa requires special clearance from the Director of Immigration or Principal Immigration officer in Zanzibar. This class of visa is usually for people from Lebanon, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Somalia, refugees, stateless people and any other country as specified by the authorities. Applications are made to any Tanzanian missions abroad and cannot be obtained at entry points.
Transit Visa. This is issued for those who wish to cross Tanzania and the validity is two weeks. It is for those people holding onward tickets. Those who are visiting must not get this type and instead get the ordinary visa.
Work permits are granted in two classes:
Class A. The following documents are required: Certificate of competence from Tanzanian Investment Centre (TIC), a cover letter from applicant, six photographs, A curriculum Vitae, Educational certificates, company registration, Memorandum of Articles, Evidence of business premises, sectoral approval from any relevant ministry, Share certificate, and a photocopy of passport pages.
Class B. Applicants must complete Tanzanian Immigration Form 1 and submit it to the Labour Commissioner for a recommendation. The recommendation will be attached to the form and forwarded to the Director of Immigration. The class B permit is for applicants who possess rare qualifications or skills, preferably in highly technical occupations, that are not readily available in the local labour market. The applicant must have the following documents:
Cover letter or letter of appointment, five photographs, Curriculum Vitae (CV), Academic qualifications, job description, organisational structure of the company clearly showing the number of positions held by expatriates, a letter from the government for anyone to be employed in a parastatal organisation,a membership certificate from local professional bodies for testing and monitoring the professional integrity of expatriates, i.e., doctors, pilots, nurses, lawyers, surveyors and accountants, employment contract, photocopy of passport pages showing nationality, validity and current status, and finally evidence to show that the company tried to fill the post with a Tanzanian by producing copies of advertisments announcing the vacancy as well as a CV of an Tanzanian alternative.

What is required to obtain these visas?

1. If arriving by air, at the airport. Although the government has officially stopped asking for yellow fever certificates it is advisable to carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Standard visa cost is US$50 per person. Visa has a limit of 90 days. Multi-entry visas are double the price. Employment and temporary visas cost an additional US$100.
2. If arriving by road, visas can be obtained at the point of entry.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Dependents/spouses are permitted to stay in Tanzania for the duration of the working relative's stay with residence permit. They generally do not work, unless they fulfill the criteria as detailed in the Class B, application section above.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

A passport is the main form used to verify identity. Apart from getting a Tanzanian driver's license there is no requirement to obtain other identification. The work/resident permit must be endorsed in the passport or the actual permit carried with the passport. The passport will be requested for identification in most circumstances.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

No. Just obtain a driver's license, if one intends to drive. A great deal of expatriates uses drivers to avoid the stresses of traffic and the perils of possible accidents.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Weapons, pornographic material, fresh food and cars more than 10 years old.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

If the Director of Immigration does not renew a residence permit, the holder is required to return to his or her country of origin. The holder however, can lodge an appeal to the Minister of Home Affairs.
Residence permits have a grace period of one month, following the expiry. The holder is therefore obligated to make arrangements for renewal within this period to avoid inconveniences related to staying in the country unlawfully.
A special pass can be issued to people who have submitted their applications for permits and are waiting for the decision. This is issued at the discretion of the Director of Immigration

Useful Links

Tanzanian embassies can be contacted on www.tanzania-online.gov.uk or www.tanzanianembassy-uk.org or www.tanzania.go.tz

What is the local currency?

Tanzanian Shilling (Shilingi)

What denominations does it come in?

Notes: TSH 10,000 (red, elephant), TSH 5,000 (purple, rhino), TSH 1,000 (blue, late President Nyerere) TSH 500 (green, buffalo)
Coins: TSH 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. (however, the last three are rarely used except in supermarkets and banks).

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Bureau of Exchanges throughout the city. Rates vary, so shop around.
Hotels do, but at an inferior exchange rate.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash. Recently main shops are accepting Visa and MasterCard. It is advisable to have cash available in case of problems with the machines (telecoms are unreliable). Some places accept American Express.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Yes, in hotels and some very select restaurants. There will be a 5-percent surcharge for such a facility. In most instances you will need Tanzanian shillings. Foreign cash is accepted, but at shocking exchange rates. Some institutions insist on being paid in U.S. dollars, but you have the right to pay in Shillings. However, you will more than likely get a poor exchange rate.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Rentals are paid for in U.S. dollars, by bank cheque or in cash.
Government hospitals in TSHs cash.
Car insurance and medical aid in US dollars, by cheque or cash
Electricity, water, car licences, telephone etc., in Tanzanian cash

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Private account. As a foreigner you are able to open a Tanzanian Shillings, U.S.-dollar and sometime Euro accounts.
You will need a work/residence permit, two passport-size photographs, a letter of appointment from your employer and a cash deposit. In TSHs a minimum of 50,000; for a U.S.-dollar account, a minimum of 1,000; and for Euros a minimum of 1,000.
A Company Bank account can be opened provided that the following documents are available: Memorandum of Articles, Certificate of Incorporation, Valid Business licence, Certificate of Registration, TIN (Tax Identification Number) and photographs of directors. Board resolutions determine the opening of a bank account with that particular bank.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

All banks use English and Swahili as the language of correspondence

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Once you have opened the account, there are not many restrictions. Provided you have sufficient funds, you can transfer and remit any amount out of the country. Conversely, you can transfer in as much as you want, but it will be converted into the currency of your account/s.

What are typical banking hours?

Banking hours on weekdays are normally 08.30 a.m. to 15.30 p.m.
Saturdays, 09.00 a.m. to noon.
There are over 30 banks with Barclay's, Standard Chartered, Stanbic, Bank of Baroda, FBME, and Citibank being the more well known internationally.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Most banks have ATMs and offer Visa, and MasterCard facilities. Cash is dispensed in Tanzanian Shillings. Normally a maximum of TSH 400,000

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Travellers cheques are acceptable, but generally, only exchanged at Banks, hotels and bureaus of exchange.
Credit cards are slowly being introduced but, when dealing with locals, cash is the only legal tender and helps things to happen when problems arise. All bureaus of exchange, banks and hotels advertise the exchange rates offered by that institution. Most daily newspapers list the official rates of buying, mid rate and selling as published by Bank of Tanzania for 20 currencies throughout the world.

Useful Links

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Your budget: Accommodation is extremely high in cost and yet the standard rather low.
Travelling distance to work and school: Traffic congestion is the main concern, especially in the morning.
Type of accommodation: This is the first decision you have to make. Depending on your lifestyle and family size. You have a choice of living in a secure compound, stand alone house or bungalow, duplexes or apartments. Such complexes include swimming pool, gym, tennis court and security. All options have pro's and con's and if you make a list of your requirements, it is easier to weigh the options.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Oysterbay and the Peninsula
The most prominent and sought after areas are Masaki, (near the Yacht Club), Msasani Peninsular and Oysterbay. All are centrally located nearby the IST (Upper) School, shopping centres, hospitals, hotels & restaurants. The areas have been developing at an amazing rate in the last five to seven years and you now have a choice of all types of accommodation. Because these areas are in high demand, the rents are much higher and payment terms are seldom less than a year.
Mikocheni A & B
These areas are located off the Old Bagamoyo Road near three big shopping centres but are approximately 5 to 10 km away from the Peninsular and the city centre. The properties here, in general, are slightly larger and sometimes better value for money. The downside can be increased traffic in this area, although this is mostly during peak hours heading towards the city. The area is considered safe, but we recommend 24 hour security for all leased property.
Ada and Regent Estates
Ada Estate is situated just past the Protea Apartments on the Haille Selassie Road. Regent Estate is opposite the American Embassy and near Shopper Plaza. The houses are usually larger gardens and due to their age have a more colonial feel. It is good to make sure that mosquito gauze is secured on both windows and doors to avoid getting malaria as these areas can be mosquito infested at times.
Kawe and Mbezi Beaches.
Whilst these areas boast some beautiful homes with direct beach access, some of the roads are not well maintained during the rainy seasons. However, the roads are being upgraded now. Travelling to the Peninsular can take up to 30 minutes and travelling back at night is difficult.
Kinondoni & Upanga.
This area is much closer to town and does have a greater number of apartments, including a complex of three high rise flats. The tenants tend to be single people who need to get to work that is adjacent. Many of the embassies, United Nations agencies and NGOs have offices in Upanga. So does the IST Elementary School, Moslem School and the Diamond Jubilee Conference Hall.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Foreigners are not allowed to buy property. Only businesses are permitted to buy on a 99-year lease agreement. So as a general rule accommodation is rented.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Landlords of property on the Peninsular demand an advance payment for one year. In other areas, some owners ask for only six months in advance.
Rentals in the Oysterbay and Peninsular vary from US$2,500 up to US$15,000 per month
Mikocheni from US$1,500 to US$3,000 P/M
Kawe & Mbezi Beach from US$750 to US$3,000 P/M
Kinondoni and Upanga from US$1,000 to US$5,000 P/M

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

No.
Water is a factor to be considered when moving to an area. In certain areas, for example the Yacht Club and Masaki, a house for a family of four requires water to be trucked in four times a month at US$50 a delivery. If DAWASCO, the local company distributing water around Dar es Salaam is connected to your home it can cost about TSH 100,000 (US$85 P/M)
Electricity is another high-cost factor. A house consuming electricity for air-conditioners and appliances can be as much as TSH 500,000 (US$430 P/M) TANESCO sells prepaid electricity through its LUKU offices from Monday to Saturday. Some garages offer a 24 hour service for sales of LUKU.
Gas is a very useful alternative to electricity and is readily available and most DUKAs (Local shops) sell it late at night.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Tanzania is considered safe, but there is an increase in petty theft and some gang related attacks on lone people. The suggestion is never show opulence and travel around with companions. Burglary in the home is rare, but one should employ 24 hour security services.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The voltage system is 220 but because of the fluctuating .voltage, most households buy many protection plugs to prevent their appliances from being destroyed by the sharp peaks and troughs in supply. Most appliances function here. Plugs are a three-prong square with a 13 amp fuse.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Short-term or temporary accommodation -- Self Catering
Whilst looking for your home, you may consider the option of furnished accommodation on a short-term lease. Ask for a list of accommodations available, but book early because it is scarce in Dar es Salaam.

Useful Links

There is only one international residential management company. Knight Frank. However there are three to four good local firms too. There are over 40 Hotels and furnished apartments in Dar es Salaam and the surrounding areas. Holiday Inn, Movenpick, Kempinski, Protea are the more commonly known hotel chain.

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Expats to Dar es Salaam usually enroll children in the main private schools.

What are some examples of these schools?

Schools listed alphabetically and the areas they are situated in:
Aga Khan Schools. Primary and secondary schools in the West Upanga region near the Aga Khan Hospital
Dar es Salaam International Academy. In Masaki near the Transit Supermarket.
Dar International School Trust Fund. For boys and girls from nursery to grade 7 and forms 1 to 4. Situated in Sinza.
Dar es Salaam Independent Schools. Mikocheni. Primary and secondary school following the Cambridge curriculum. Students who study for AS & A2 are in forms 5 and 6.
Dutch School.
Feza. A Turkish boys' school.
French School. (Ecole Francaise) in Oysterbay.
Finnish School. On the peninsular
Haven of Peace. A Christian school for boys and girls from Reception to Grade 11 at Kunduchi (Beyond Mbezi Beach).
IST (International School of Tanganyika) Upper. Situated in Oysterbay.
IST Elementary school in Upanga.
Japanese School. Near Ada Estate.
Swedish School. Follows Swedish curriculum.
West London Learning Centre. At Tabata beyond Kunduchi in the north.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

IST is by far the most popular school of choice for expatriates, and for that reason alone, it is difficult to get students placed immediately. Sometimes your luck is determined by those leaving a particular grade. The school is extremely expensive but has the best record in the city.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

There are seven selected schools in the Peninsular, Ada Estate and Upanga areas which cater superbly to Nursery and preschool children

How are most kids transported to and from school?

School buses are available, but the trips mean that the children spend a long time on the bus from very early in the morning. Hence a lot of families drive their children to and from school.

When does the typical school year start and end?

All schools except IST start in January and finish in December. IST starts in September and finishes at the end of June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

The schools as a rule, insist that their pupils wear uniforms.
Sports are not a high priority, but IST does have some activities other than academic

Useful Links