Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) and CROSSROADS Maldives has signed the host property agreement for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026, formalising the Maldives as the host destination for the regional ceremony. 

The agreement was signed by Visit Maldives Corporation’s CEO and Managing Director, Ibrahim Shiuree, alongside Alexander Traeger, General Manager at SAii Lagoon Maldives & CROSSROADS Marina, officially marking the commencement of preparations for the event.  The milestone will bring one of the travel industry’s most prestigious award platforms to the Maldives, welcoming key tourism stakeholders from markets across Asia, the Pacific, Australasia and the Indian Ocean, bringing together influential markets that continue to shape the future of global travel. 

Hosting the World Travel Awards Asia 2026 in the Maldives underscores the country’s standing as a leading global tourism destination and its continued appeal in the global market, providing a valuable opportunity to further showcase the Maldives’ tourism offerings to key industry stakeholders across Asia, Oceania and the Indian Ocean region.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Visit Maldives Corporation CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree highlighted the significance of bringing the prestigious awards platform back to the Maldives, “Hosting an event of such global prestige is not only an honour, but a clear reflection of the strength and appeal of our destination on the global stage. The World Travel Awards represents excellence in travel and tourism, and bringing this event to the Maldives reinforces our position as a leading global destination, defined by world-class hospitality, distinctive island experiences, and consistent service excellence.”

VMC expressed its appreciation to CROSSROADS Maldives and the World Travel Awards for their continued collaboration and support in bringing the 2026 edition of the awards to the Maldives. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting the destination’s visibility through globally recognised platforms.

The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders in strengthening destination visibility and supporting long-term tourism growth. Strategic partnerships of this nature play a key role in expanding market reach and reinforcing the Maldives’ positioning in the global travel industry.

The Visit Maldives Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the Maldives as a premier global tourism destination through sustained engagement with international partners, industry stakeholders and leading travel events.