The Maldives will host the World Creator Summit 2026 and World Creator Awards 2026 from 20 to 25 September, marking a new initiative aimed at positioning the country within the growing global creator economy.

The programme, developed by Visit Maldives in collaboration with the organisers of the World Travel Awards, will bring together creators, digital platforms, publishers, tourism stakeholders and brand partners for a high-level international gathering focused on creator-led storytelling in travel and tourism.

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) said the event will be conducted as an invitation-only programme, with approximately 50 participants expected to take part in the inaugural edition, featuring discussions on themes such as wellness, luxury tourism, sustainability, culture and innovation.

The programme will include a World Creator Summit focused on the future of destination storytelling, a World Creator Awards platform recognising excellence in creator-led content and digital influence, as well as curated experiences across the Maldives aimed at facilitating content creation and international exposure.

The initiative will be supported by Creatoll, Visit Maldives’ dedicated creator platform, and is expected to attract participants from key international markets including India, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, France, Germany and Italy.

A strategic partnership agreement for the programme was signed in Malé on 2 April between Visit Maldives Corporation CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree and Executive Vice President of the World Travel Awards Justin Cooke, who will support the event’s international positioning and programme development.

Officials said the initiative reflects evolving trends in destination marketing, where digital creators play an increasing role in shaping travel demand and engagement, with the Maldives seeking to strengthen its visibility and positioning through new forms of international collaboration.