The Maldives has reaffirmed its status as a global tourism powerhouse after being crowned World’s Leading Destination 2025 for the sixth year in a row, alongside winning World’s Leading Green Destination 2025 for the second consecutive year. The accolades were announced at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony, held at Exhibition World Bahrain.
Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards are widely regarded as the highest benchmark of excellence in the global travel and tourism industry. Winners are selected through international voting by industry professionals and the public, reflecting broad confidence in the Maldives’ enduring appeal.
Securing the title of World’s Leading Destination for six straight years marks a landmark achievement, underscoring the nation’s consistency, strong global brand presence, and unmatched desirability among travellers. Meanwhile, the Maldives’ second consecutive win as World’s Leading Green Destination highlights its sustained commitment to environmental protection, sustainable tourism practices, and the preservation of its delicate marine ecosystems.
This recognition comes during a record-setting year for Maldivian tourism. Visitor arrivals surpassed two million earlier than ever before, with the destination well on track to reach the national goal of 2.3 million arrivals by the end of 2025. Momentum has been driven by strategic global campaigns, powerful partnerships, increased trade engagement, and enhanced destination visibility.
Throughout 2025, Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) led a coordinated series of international initiatives that strengthened the Maldives’ leadership position. These included ambassador programmes, major digital campaigns, targeted roadshows, co-branded marketing partnerships, and the launch of the 2026 tourism theme, “Ocean Nation”. The Maldives also expanded its presence at global trade fairs and delivered joint promotional activities across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America.
In addition to the two world titles, the Maldives secured three regional honours at this year’s awards:
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Indian Ocean’s Best MICE Destination 2025: Maldives
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Indian Ocean’s Best Incentive Destination 2025: Malé
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Indian Ocean’s Best Tourism Authority Website 2025: VisitMaldives.com
These regional wins highlight the diversification of the Maldives’ tourism offerings, which now encompass MICE travel, incentive tourism, urban experiences, and enhanced digital engagement.
The Maldives’ continued success at the World Travel Awards reflects the collective dedication of the tourism sector, local communities, government bodies, and international partners. The accomplishments reinforce the nation’s standing as a premier global destination and demonstrate the impact of sustained, year-round promotional efforts led by VMC.
