Maldives to Host World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala 2026

Maldives to host World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026 World Travel Awards (WTA) has announced that the paradise nation of the Maldives will host its Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026, with travel industry leaders from across the region gathering for a prestigious VIP reception on 27 September 2026 to coincide with World Tourism Day. The ceremony heralds the return of the Indian Ocean leg of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour, an annual series of red carpet events hosted in each continent. The decision reflects the strength of the travel and tourism sector in the Maldives and its leadership in the luxury, sustainability and experiential travel domains. With its crystalline lagoons, powder-white beaches and world-renowned overwater bungalows, the Maldives represents the pinnacle of barefoot luxury and remains one of the most aspirational destinations on earth. Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “It is an incredible honour to host our Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026 in the Maldives – and what better occasion than World Tourism Day to celebrate the very best of our industry! The Maldives continues to set the global standard for luxury and sustainable tourism, and I look forward to welcoming travel leaders from across the Indian Ocean to experience the extraordinary magic of these remarkable islands.”