The World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2025 lit up Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, as leaders in travel and hospitality gathered to celebrate the finest achievements across the region. Held at the Johari Rotana, this prestigious event brought together key figures from the tourism industry, shining a spotlight on innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Guests were welcomed by the warmth of Tanzanian hospitality, with the evening offering a showcase of the country’s rich culture and landscapes. The celebration marked not just an awards ceremony but a platform for networking and inspiration, underscoring the resilience and dynamism of Africa and the Indian Ocean’s travel sector.
Celebrating Leading Destinations
Tanzania’s own tourism industry was in the spotlight with multiple wins. The country secured the title of ‘Africa’s Leading Destination’, affirming its status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and culture. Serengeti National Park continued its legacy of excellence by being named ‘Africa’s Leading National Park’, while Mount Kilimanjaro won ‘Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park’, highlighting Tanzania’s extraordinary natural diversity.
Zanzibar was recognized as ‘Africa’s Leading Beach Destination’, adding another feather to Tanzania’s cap. These accolades not only reinforce the country’s global tourism appeal but also reflect successful efforts in conservation, infrastructure development, and service quality. Tourism leaders hope these awards will further boost visitor numbers, supporting local economies and communities.
Indian Ocean’s Top Performers
The Maldives was among the biggest winners of the night, taking home both ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Green Destination’. This dual recognition reflects the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, which has become increasingly vital in protecting its delicate marine ecosystems. The Maldives continues to set a benchmark for luxury, environmental stewardship, and innovative guest experiences.
New resorts and hotels also made a mark at this year’s gala. JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort earned the title of ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading New Resort’, showcasing the ongoing expansion and diversification of accommodation options in the region. These developments signal strong investor confidence and a commitment to maintaining the Maldives’ reputation as a world-class destination.
Showcasing Africa’s Luxury Hospitality
The event also highlighted Africa’s vibrant and competitive luxury hospitality sector. Kenya’s Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club was crowned ‘Africa’s Leading Hotel’, applauded for its blend of heritage, service, and spectacular mountain views. Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort was named ‘Africa’s Leading Resort’, drawing attention to Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings from beach escapes to highland retreats.
In a sign of the sector’s continued growth, Tanzania’s Singita Milele claimed ‘Africa’s Leading New Hotel’, rising above a highly competitive field of entrants. This victory reinforces Tanzania’s status as a leading destination for high-end tourism investment, catering to travelers who seek exceptional experiences in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Honouring the Wider Tourism Ecosystem
The awards didn’t just spotlight destinations and accommodations. The aviation sector celebrated Kenya Airways as ‘Africa’s Leading Airline’, reflecting its vital role in connecting travelers to Africa’s tourism gems. Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam won ‘Africa’s Leading Airport’, showcasing Tanzania’s ongoing investments in modern infrastructure to support growing visitor arrivals.
Ports and convention centres also earned accolades, with Port of Cape Town being voted ‘Africa’s Leading Cruise Port’ and Durban ICC named ‘Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre’. These awards recognize the importance of cruise tourism and business travel in driving economic growth and diversification.
Other winners in the Indian Ocean included Eden Bleu Hotel in Seychelles, crowned ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Conference Hotel’, and Chale Island in Kenya, awarded ‘Africa’s Leading Private Island Resort’. These achievements highlight the region’s ability to deliver a broad spectrum of experiences—from exclusive island escapes to world-class event hosting.
A Night of Recognition and Reflection
Graham Cooke, President & Founder of World Travel Awards, praised the winners, saying the event in Dar es Salaam was made special by Tanzania’s energy and hospitality. He acknowledged the winners as the best of the industry, applauding their vision and commitment to shaping the future of travel across Africa and the Indian Ocean.
Ephraim Mafuru, Director General of the Tanzania Tourist Board, emphasized the significance of hosting such a high-profile ceremony. He described it as a milestone for Tanzania’s travel sector, offering a global stage to showcase the nation’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-class service. The event offered an invaluable opportunity for Tanzania to strengthen its reputation among travel professionals, investors, and potential visitors alike.
The World Travel Awards Gala in Tanzania served as more than a moment of recognition. It was a rallying point for industry players to share ideas, celebrate innovation, and discuss the evolving expectations of travelers. From sustainability to luxury, connectivity to community impact, the event illustrated the region’s diverse strengths and its shared commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and thriving tourism sector.
As the world’s travelers look for meaningful, responsible, and memorable experiences, Africa and the Indian Ocean’s tourism leaders are working hard to deliver. The 2025 gala was proof that this vibrant region remains ready to meet those demands—offering unparalleled beauty, warm welcomes, and a future that promises even more for those willing to explore its many treasures.
See the full list of winners
