The Maldives is set to strengthen its position on the global tourism stage with the launch of the World Creator Summit 2026 and the World Creator Awards 2026, powered by Creatoll.

Scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 September 2026, the initiative will bring together leading digital creators, platforms, publishers, tourism stakeholders and brand partners for a high-level international gathering centred on the growing influence of creator-led storytelling in travel and tourism.

Developed by Visit Maldives in collaboration with the organisers of the World Travel Awards, the programme is designed as a premium, invitation-only platform with a strong emphasis on quality, curation and long-term value. The initiative aims to position the Maldives not only as a host destination but as a global hub for discussions shaping the future of the creator economy and destination marketing.

At the heart of the programme is Creatoll, Visit Maldives’ dedicated creator platform, which will connect international talent with tourism partners and brands. Through this, the Maldives will be showcased via authentic, high-quality content, reinforcing its global appeal through compelling storytelling.

The inaugural edition will feature a carefully selected group of around 50 participants to ensure a focused and high-impact experience. The programme will combine thought leadership, immersive destination experiences and recognition, with themes expected to include wellness, luxury, sustainability, culture and innovation in tourism.

Key components of the programme include the World Creator Summit, an interactive forum exploring the future of destination storytelling, and the World Creator Awards, a new platform recognising excellence in digital influence, creative craft and cultural impact. Participants will also take part in curated experiences across the Maldives, designed to highlight the country’s unique people, places and stories while creating opportunities for global exposure.

The event is expected to attract participants from major international markets, including India, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, France, Germany and Italy, further reinforcing the Maldives’ status as one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations.

To deliver the programme, Visit Maldives Corporation has entered into a strategic partnership with the organisers of the World Travel Awards. The collaboration, formalised during a signing ceremony in Malé on 2 April 2026, will support the initiative’s concept development, international positioning and overall curation.

Speaking on the initiative, Visit Maldives Corporation CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree noted that the rise of creators reflects a fundamental shift in how destinations are marketed. He emphasised that the summit and awards would place the Maldives at the centre of global discussions, fostering new ideas, partnerships and opportunities aligned with the future of the industry.

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice President of the World Travel Awards, highlighted the ambition to create a distinctive and internationally relevant platform, describing it as more than a typical social media event but rather a meaningful forum to shape the next phase of destination storytelling.