Sultan Ali bin Said was a prominent leader of the Sultanate of Zanzibar, which was located off the east coast of Africa. He ruled from 1870 until his death in 1893. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize the sultanate and improve trade relations, particularly in the spice and ivory markets. During his rule, Sultan Ali bin Said faced challenges from both internal factions and external pressures, including European colonial interests. His leadership played a significant role in the history of Zanzibar, influencing its cultural and economic landscape during a time of significant change in the region.