The Arab impact on the population of Zanzibar islands is visible until today. Local demographics is a blend of Arab and Persian(shiraz) influences and Bantu tribes from the African mainland. The people of Zanzibar tend to identify with where they come from within the islands, as Zanzibar does not have tribal relations. People from Unguja would introduce themselves as Waunguja,  Watumbatu are people from Tumbatu island and Wapemba come from Pemba.

Aside from the Swahili and Arab people, Zanzibar has also a small Indian population. Recently, large number of Africans have been immigrating to the islands from Tanzania mainland and other East African states, mostly working in hospitality industry. This includes the Maasai, famous warriors from Northern  part of Tanzania. Aside a small Asian community on the island,  there are also the European expatriates and volunteers drawn to Zanzibar to work in education, healthcare and tourism.