World Travel Awards 2026: Maldives in the Running for Six Indian Ocean Titles

The Maldives has secured six nominations at the World Travel Awards 2026, competing across the Indian Ocean category against destinations from across the region. Voting is open to the public now, and the outcome is partly decided by how many people cast a vote.

The World Travel Awards are the most recognized honors in global travel, running annually since 1993. Six nominations in a single cycle is a strong showing for the Maldives, and reflects the investment the sector has seen in recent years across new openings, refurbishments, and sustainability programs that the awards increasingly recognize.

Crossroads Maldives has been confirmed as the host venue for the Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony, scheduled for 27 September 2026. The multi-island lifestyle destination in North Male Atoll sits about 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, and it's a deliberate choice. Hosting the ceremony there says something about what Maldivian tourism has become: CROSSROADS is itself a destination, not just a hotel.

If you've stayed at a Maldivian property recently, the voting platform at the World Travel Awards website lets you cast your votes directly. Industry professionals, resort teams, and past guests all count. The nominations span multiple categories, and the full shortlist is available on the official WTA site.

The gala in September will bring together travel industry leaders from across the Indian Ocean region. For the local tourism sector, it's a useful moment to take stock of where the industry stands and where it's heading.