Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) and CROSSROADS Maldives have signed a host property agreement for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026, formalising arrangements for the Maldives to host the regional tourism event next year.

The agreement was signed by VMC Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree and Alexander Traeger, General Manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives and CROSSROADS Marina, marking the beginning of preparations for the ceremony.

The World Travel Awards event is expected to bring together tourism industry representatives and stakeholders from markets across Asia, Oceania and the Indian Ocean region. The ceremony will provide the Maldives with an opportunity to engage with key industry figures and showcase developments in the country's tourism sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Shiuree said hosting the awards reflects the Maldives' position within the global tourism industry. He noted that the event would further strengthen the country's international tourism profile while highlighting the destination's hospitality sector and tourism offerings.

VMC thanked CROSSROADS Maldives and the World Travel Awards organisation for their cooperation in bringing the 2026 ceremony to the Maldives. The corporation said the partnership highlights the role of collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders in supporting tourism promotion and expanding the destination's reach in international markets.

The Maldives was earlier announced as the host destination for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026, which is scheduled to be held at CROSSROADS Maldives on September 27, coinciding with World Tourism Day.