Zanzibar Shines as Host, Wins Big at Inaugural World Travel Awards Africa Gala

Zanzibar, Tanzania – The Indian Ocean shores of Zanzibar became the epicenter of global tourism excellence last week, hosting the historic first-ever World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony. On August 28, 2026, the archipelago welcomed over 300 industry leaders to the newly opened Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, cementing its status as a premier destination for both luxury travel and international events.

Known as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” the gala celebrated the continent’s finest achievements while highlighting Zanzibar’s rapid ascent in the global tourism landscape. The event was a triumph for the host region, with Tanzania and Zanzibar securing a dominant share of the prestigious accolades.

A Triple Victory for Zanzibar

The archipelago’s success was immediate and sweeping. Zanzibar claimed a triple crown, taking home the titles of Africa’s Leading Beach Destination, Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination, and Africa’s Leading Regional Tourist Board.

This recognition is not merely symbolic; it arrives as the destination reports record-breaking momentum. 917,167 visitors were recorded in 2025 alone, with strong performance continuing into 2026, signaling a robust recovery and a surge in global interest.

Beyond the grand stages, the island’s hospitality ecosystem is being celebrated for its diversity. Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa was honored as Tanzania’s Leading Family Resort, acknowledging its pivotal role in welcoming travelers seeking authentic, accessible experiences alongside the luxury sector. The choice of venue also proved auspicious; the Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, which opened its doors in January 2026 on the south-east coast, was named both Africa’s Leading New Resort and Zanzibar’s Leading Villa Resort.

Tanzania’s Tourism Dominance

The mainland and the archipelago united to showcase Tanzania’s diverse attractions. The nation was crowned Africa’s Leading Destination, while the Tanzania Tourist Board took home Africa’s Leading Tourist Board.

Iconic natural landmarks continued to define the country’s brand:

• Serengeti National Park secured both Africa’s Leading National Park and Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park.
• Kilimanjaro National Park was named Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park.
• Selous claimed the title of Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
• Mpanga-Kipengere was voted Africa’s Leading Honeymoon Destination.
• Julius Nyerere International Airport was recognized as Africa’s Leading Airport.

Excellence Across the Continent

Beyond Tanzania, the awards highlighted a thriving ecosystem of African aviation and luxury hospitality. Kenya Airways dominated the skies, winning Africa’s Leading Airline and Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class, while Ethiopian Airlines took Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class. RwandAir was celebrated for its service excellence, earning Africa’s Leading Cabin Crew.

In the luxury sector, Chem Chem Lodge was named Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge, and The Mora Zanzibar was voted Africa’s Most Romantic Resort. Sustainability efforts were recognized with LUX* Marijani taking Africa’s Leading Green Hotel, while Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club was awarded Africa’s Leading Hotel.

Cape Town continued its reputation as a global hub, winning Africa’s Leading City Destination and Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination. The Port of Cape Town and Durban ICC were also honored as Africa’s Leading Cruise Port and Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre, respectively.

A Responsibility to the Community

The ceremony was more than a celebration of trophies; it was a reaffirmation of tourism’s role in local livelihoods.

“Our objective is not only to increase visitor numbers, but to develop tourism that creates jobs, attracts investment, supports local businesses and protects our environment,” said Mr. Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, Acting Minister for Tourism and Heritage.

Arif Abbas Manji, Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, emphasized the collective nature of the achievement.

“These awards belong to all Zanzibaris,” Manji stated. “Behind every visitor there is a farmer, fisherman, driver, tour guide, hotel worker, artist, trader and many others whose livelihoods are connected to tourism. We see these awards not simply as trophies, but as a responsibility and motivation to achieve even more.”

From Africa to the World

The African winners now advance to the World Travel Awards Grand Final later this year, where they will compete against global counterparts for worldwide titles. With the Maldives already named Best Travel Destination Worldwide and Turkish Airlines taking Best Airline Worldwide in earlier global announcements, the African contenders carry the hopes of the continent into the final round of competition.