For over three decades, the World Travel Awards (WTA) has stood as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence, honoring the leaders across all sectors of travel, tourism, and hospitality. Established in 1993, the WTA was created to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence in the travel industry — and today, it is recognized globally as the most prestigious and comprehensive awards program in the sector.
As the world increasingly looks to tourism not only for leisure but for economic recovery and innovation, the importance of celebrating and rewarding those who set new benchmarks has never been greater. In 2025, the World Travel Awards Grand Tour continues this legacy, with a spectacular calendar of gala ceremonies staged at some of the most exciting destinations around the globe.
A Global Celebration: The WTA 2025 Grand Tour
Each year, WTA’s Grand Tour travels across continents, hosting regional ceremonies to spotlight the very best from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, the Indian Ocean, North America, and the Caribbean. Winners from each regional event then move forward to compete at the Grand Final — the ultimate industry accolade.
The World Travel Awards 2025 Grand Tour features a prestigious line-up of events, including:
Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony
Date: 28 June 2025 | Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
This ceremony celebrates the finest travel brands across Africa and the Indian Ocean, reflecting the region’s growing influence in global tourism.
Latin America Gala Ceremony
Date: 27 September 2025 | Location: Cancún, Mexico
A vibrant showcase honoring the best hospitality and tourism providers across Latin America’s diverse and dynamic landscape.
Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony
Date: 13 October 2025 | Location: Hong Kong
Recognizing cutting-edge destinations and services across two of the world’s most fast-evolving travel markets.
Europe Gala Ceremony
Date: 22 October 2025 | Location: Sardinia, Italy
A celebration of the rich heritage, innovation, and luxury that define European travel.
Middle East Gala Ceremony
Date: 27 October 2025 | Location: Dubai, UAE
Highlighting the Middle East’s ambitious vision for tourism leadership, infrastructure excellence, and world-class hospitality.
Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony
Date and Location: To be announced
Honoring the sun-soaked islands and bustling metropolises that offer some of the world’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
Grand Final Gala Ceremony
Date: 9 December 2025 | Location: Exhibition World Bahrain, Bahrain
The climax of the year, where global winners are crowned in a glittering event attended by industry leaders, celebrities, and media.
The Significance of Winning a World Travel Award
Winning a World Travel Award is more than just a mark of excellence — it’s a powerful endorsement recognized by consumers and trade professionals worldwide. It brings international acclaim, elevates brand reputation, drives sales, and inspires customer loyalty.
The rigorous voting process involves qualified executives working within travel and tourism, as well as the consumer travel buyer. It ensures that the winners truly represent the highest standard in service and innovation.
From luxury hotels and airlines to destination management organizations and tourism boards, every nominee shares one common attribute: a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.
Strengthening Global Connections: Spotlight on Arabian Travel Market
A key moment in the global travel industry calendar that complements the WTA’s mission is the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), held annually in Dubai. As the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East, ATM gathers thousands of exhibitors, buyers, and thought leaders from around the world to explore trends, build connections, and drive the future of tourism. The Arabian Travel Market serves as a powerful platform for networking and collaboration, perfectly aligning with the values celebrated by the World Travel Awards — innovation, excellence, and vision in tourism. With Dubai also hosting the WTA Middle East Gala Ceremony in 2025, the synergy between these two landmark events will further strengthen the region’s position as a global tourism powerhouse.
WTA’s Influence and Innovation
Beyond the glamour of the awards, WTA plays a vital role in promoting the global travel and tourism industry, encouraging healthy competition, raising service standards, and spotlighting new trends. It also helps destinations and brands position themselves as leaders on the world stage.
In 2025, WTA will continue to adapt and innovate, expanding its reach through digital platforms and broadcast partnerships. Its ceremonies, attended by government and industry leaders, captains of commerce, and international media, provide unmatched opportunities for networking, brand exposure, and celebrating success.
Join the Celebration
Whether as a nominee, winner, or attendee, participating in the World Travel Awards 2025 is an opportunity to be part of a global community that drives the industry forward. It’s a chance to align with the best, recognize achievement, and celebrate the extraordinary resilience and creativity of the global travel industry.
For more details on the World Travel Awards 2025 Grand Tour, voting, and nominations, visit the official website: www.worldtravelawards.com/events.
