Tanzania is preparing to host the World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa Gala Ceremony 2026, one of the continent’s most prestigious travel events, bringing together the world’s leading tourism and hospitality figures in Zanzibar next month.
The ceremony, scheduled for 28 August 2026 at Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar, will bring together industry leaders, hotel executives, aviation chiefs, destination specialists and tourism innovators from across Africa and beyond to celebrate excellence and innovation in the travel sector.
For Tanzania, the event represents more than a high-profile awards ceremony. It is a recognition of the country’s growing influence in global tourism, from the wildlife-rich landscapes of the mainland to the beaches, culture and heritage of Zanzibar.
WTA Founder Graham Cooke described Zanzibar as a destination that deserves a place on every traveller’s bucket list.
“Diamonds Bijoux provides the perfect backdrop — a world-class venue that embodies the elegance and warmth Zanzibar is famous for,” he said.
Cooke added that Tanzania’s selection to host both the Africa Gala Ceremony in August and the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony in November reflects the strength and growing international profile of the country’s tourism industry.
“The fact that Tanzania will host not one but two of our most prestigious events in 2026 is a powerful statement about the incredible strength and depth of this country’s tourism sector and its trajectory,” he said.
He also thanked Visit Zanzibar, the Tanzania Tourist Board and the Government of Tanzania for supporting the events.
Perfect setting
Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, historic Stone Town and unique blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian and Portuguese influences provide a fitting setting for the ceremony.
The islands have become one of Africa’s most sought-after destinations, combining luxury tourism with cultural heritage, adventure and authentic local experiences.
The August gala will be the first of two major WTA events hosted by Tanzania this year. The Grand Final Gala Ceremony in November will conclude the organisation’s global Grand Tour and place Tanzania at the centre of international tourism discussions.
The hosting rights come as Tanzania receives strong recognition across the World Travel Awards 2026.
The country is competing for Africa’s Leading Destination 2026, while Zanzibar has been nominated for Africa’s Leading Beach Destination 2026 and Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination 2026.
Safari and nature
The country’s flagship attractions — including Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Mount Kilimanjaro and Nyerere National Park — are also nominated across several leading safari and nature categories.
The aviation sector is similarly in focus, with Julius Nyerere International Airport competing for Africa’s Leading Airport 2026, while major African carriers vie for the title of Africa’s Leading Airline 2026.
Arif Abbas, Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, said the event marks an important milestone for the destination.
“This is an opportunity Zanzibar has long been waiting for, amplifying and elevating our efforts we have been implementing as a destination. We look forward to hosting the leaders of travel in Zanzibar on 28 August 2026,” he said.
As the global tourism community prepares to gather on the islands, Tanzania is expected to use the occasion not only to showcase its spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage, but also to highlight its ambition to become one of Africa’s most dynamic and competitive travel destinations..
