The world of tourism has chosen new leaders - the winners of the prestigious World Travel Awards 2025 have been announced. Find out who became the best this year, which countries received global recognition for innovation, luxury service, adventure routes and sustainable tourism growth

The world saw new and confirmed leaders in the travel industry as the grand finale of the World Travel Awards 2025, traditionally considered the “Oscars of tourism,” took place in Bahrain. This year’s ceremony brought together top hospitality brands, leading airlines, the world’s best resorts and travel destinations that are shaping the future of travel.

The event took place at a new location – Exhibition World Bahrain, one of the most modern exhibition centers in the Middle East. The choice of Bahrain as the host of the event underlined its growing role as a center for international tourism and MICE. The ceremony became not only a celebration of leaders in the travel industry, but also a symbol of the transition to a new era of sustainable, innovative and customer-centric travel.

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What are the World Travel Awards and why is it important?

The World Travel Awards (WTA), founded in 1993, is the most prestigious international recognition in the tourism industry. It is called the global benchmark of quality, as the winners are chosen by both industry experts and travelers from all over the world.

The award not only records achievements, but also significantly strengthens the positions of brands and tourist destinations: it increases trust, improves reputation and recognition in the global market.

The WTA reflects current trends and preferences of tourists - from sustainable tourism to digital innovation and experience-oriented travel.

The main winners of the World Travel Awards 2025

The 2025 Grand Final once again showed that the world of tourism is actively developing and adapting. The best destinations were those that combine natural resources, innovation, infrastructure and a strong marketing strategy.

Maldives - the leading global destination in 2025

For the sixth consecutive year, the Maldives has become the main tourist destination on the planet. In 2025, the country set a new record for the number of tourists - more than two million visitors. The strategy of diversity of offers (luxury resorts, MICE, a large number of brands, digital marketing) allowed this destination to maintain global leadership.

Athens, Greece – the best city for a city break

Athens won the title of the best city destination of the year thanks to its unique combination of: rich history and architectural masterpieces, gastronomic culture, modern rhythm of life, convenient infrastructure for short visits and city-breaks.

Chile – the best destination for adventure tourism

Chile impressed the jury and tourists with its impressive nature: Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, the Andes, the ocean coast.

The rapid demand for active travel and emotional tourism has made the country a strong global player.

Tanzania – the world leader in safaris

Tanzania has once again proven that it is the heart of African safaris. The country offers unique natural parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, as well as wildlife conservation programs that make safaris not only a spectacular but also a responsible experience.

Jamaica is the world's top cruise destination

With its picturesque beaches, cultural heritage and convenient port infrastructure, Jamaica maintains its position as a top Caribbean hub for cruise itineraries.

India triumphs at World Travel Awards 2025

India has confirmed its growing importance in global tourism by winning a number of prestigious regional titles in Asia and Oceania.

Leaders in the Indian hotel industry:

- The Oberoi, New Delhi – Asia’s Leading Hotel.

- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa – India’s Best Resort.

- SwaSwara (Karnataka) – India’s Leading Boutique Hotel.

- Mumbai International Airport – India’s Leading Airport.

- Delhi International Airport – Asia’s Best Airport Lounge

The strong position of Indian hospitality shows that the country is fast moving towards becoming the world’s leading travel market.

Aviation and hotel recognition

Airlines

Qatar Airways is back on top, having been awarded the ‘World’s Leading Airline’ award. In addition, Qatar Airways once again confirmed the premium level of service with the distinction of “The Best Business Class in the World”.

Emirates and Etihad were also recognized – for their brand, customer service and service in different flight classes.

Luxury hotels and new projects

- St. Regis The Palm – the best hotel service in the world.

- Marriott Marquis Dubai Creek – the world’s leading new hotel.

- The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort – the leading new resort.

This shows that investments in hotel infrastructure remain high worldwide.

What do the 2025 victories say about the future of tourism?

According to the results of WTA 2025, key global trends can be identified:

1. Sustainable development and innovation

Luxury + responsible tourism is the formula for the future. Maldives and Tanzania are vivid confirmation of this.

2. Demand for emotional experiences

Adventure, safaris, cultural itineraries and cruises are becoming the main motivators for travelers.

3. Quality of service is the key to success

Airlines and hotels that invest in standards and customer experience maintain leadership.

4. The rise of new markets

Bahrain, India and some projects in Oman and the UAE demonstrate that the geography of premium tourism is rapidly expanding.

The grand finale of the World Travel Awards 2025 became a powerful demonstration that the travel industry is actively transforming. It is no longer about just travel - it is about unique experiences, innovation, responsibility and quality service.

WTA leaders shape the tourism map of the future, and their victories set the standards to which other destinations in the world aspire.

The world's top tourist destinations require quality training. Whether you dream of the Maldives, adventures in Chile or a cruise to Jamaica, travel insurance is an essential element of responsible travel.

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Reminder! World tourism is experiencing a rapid recovery, and global metropolises are competing for supremacy in quality of life and attractiveness for travelers. We have already told you which cities topped the Euromonitor International rating in 2025, why Paris maintains its leadership, what trends are shaping the future of travel and how world tourism strategies are changing.

Photo – Freepik

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