CROSSROADS Maldives to Host World Travel Awards Asia Oceania and Indian Ocean 2026

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) and CROSSROADS Maldives have officially signed a host property agreement to bring the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026 to the Maldives. The partnership aims to welcome the travel industry's most influential stakeholders from across the Pacific, Australasia, and the Indian Ocean region. The agreement was formalized in a signing ceremony featuring Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, and Alexander Traeger, General Manager at SAii Lagoon Maldives and CROSSROADS Marina. This collaboration marks a strategic effort to leverage one of the most prestigious platforms in global tourism to boost the nation's visibility. According to VMC, hosting the 2026 awards underscores the Maldives' standing as a premier global destination. The event provides a critical opportunity to showcase the country's evolving tourism offerings to key industry players and decision-makers from high-growth markets in Asia and Oceania. During the ceremony, Ibrahim Shiuree emphasized that bringing the awards back to the Maldives is both an honor and a reflection of the destination's enduring global appeal. He noted that the World Travel Awards represents the pinnacle of excellence in travel and tourism. By hosting the event, the Maldives reinforces its reputation for world-class hospitality and distinctive island experiences. VMC expressed gratitude to both CROSSROADS Maldives and the World Travel Awards organization for their collaboration. The corporation stated that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to maintaining the Maldives' competitiveness through globally recognized platforms, ensuring the country remains a top-of-mind destination for luxury and sustainable travel. The event is expected to draw a significant number of delegates and industry leaders, further cementing the Maldives' role as a hub for tourism excellence in the Indian Ocean region.