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Maldives wins five awards at the World Travel Awards ceremony. Photo: Visit Maldives

Crossroad: The Maldives has won five awards at the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026, held at Crossroads Maldives on Saturday night to mark World Tourism Day.

Maldives takes four destination titles

The Maldives was named Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination 2026, while also winning titles for leading diving, green and honeymoon destinations in the Indian Ocean.

Visit Maldives, the country’s tourism marketing body, was also recognised as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board 2026.

More than 15 Maldivian tourism brands received awards across various categories at the ceremony, including resorts, hospitality, aviation, diving and tourism experiences.

Tourism industry recognised

Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen, speaking at the event, highlighted the growth of Maldivian tourism since the country welcomed its first two resorts in 1972.

He also underscored the importance of promoting sustainable tourism and credited Visit Maldives for its efforts to market the country internationally.

World Travel Awards founder and president Graham Cooke also attended the ceremony, which brought together tourism industry representatives from more than 40 countries.

Continued global recognition

Visit Maldives CEO and Managing Director Abdulla Yaseer said the five awards reflected the strength of the Maldivian tourism industry and the quality of experiences offered to international visitors.

The Maldives has also held the title of the World’s Leading Destination for six consecutive years from 2020 to 2025.

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 and are presented across multiple tourism categories and regions.