The breathtaking Johari Rotana in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is set to host the illustrious World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony on Saturday, 28 June 2025. The Tourism International reports that Tanzania’s iconic MNF Square development will welcome the region’s top travel and tourism leaders for an unforgettable evening filled with celebration and prestige.
The event kicks off at 7:00 PM with a stylish cocktail reception designed for networking. It is followed by a grand gala dinner and the much-anticipated awards ceremony starting at 8:00 PM, wrapping up by 11:00 PM.
The event will see nominees, industry decision-makers, and influencers across Africa and the Indian Ocean unite to honour outstanding achievements in hospitality, tourism, and travel innovation.
Choosing Dar es Salaam as the host city highlights Tanzania’s rising prominence as a major regional tourism hub. Renowned for its legendary Serengeti safaris, pristine Zanzibar beaches, and the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers a rich blend of natural wonders and world-class hospitality.
“Tanzania’s role as host reflects its rapid growth in tourism impact and economic contribution,” said Graham Cooke, Founder of World Travel Awards.
Although voting for the Africa & Indian Ocean categories closed on 4 May, excitement remains high. This year’s shortlist features leading airlines, luxury resorts, conservation projects, and tourism service providers that have elevated the region’s global profile.
According to Tourism International, nominees include top airlines like Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines, alongside iconic destinations such as Zanzibar, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and the Serengeti.
“For many nominees, winning at the WTA Gala is more than just an award—it’s a game-changer that boosts international recognition and appeal.”
This spectacular evening marks the first stop of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2025, which will continue to prestigious locations including Cancun, Saint Lucia, Hong Kong, Sardinia, and Dubai, before culminating in the Grand Final in Bahrain.
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The World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa is a globally recognised event that bestows the ultimate hallmark of excellence on travel, tourism, and hospitality brands across the continent. Often dubbed the “Oscars of the travel industry,” these awards hold significant weight, acting as a powerful driver for tourism growth, a benchmark for quality, and a source of immense prestige for winners.
The WTA’s impact ripples across the African tourism landscape, influencing traveller perceptions, boosting national pride, and encouraging investment and innovation within the sector. The awards present a crucial opportunity for destination marketing and economic diversification for Nigeria, a nation with immense tourism potential.
In a competitive global tourism market, a WTA award serves as a trusted endorsement of quality and excellence. For African destinations and tourism providers, winning an award elevates their brand internationally, setting them apart from competitors and capturing the attention of discerning travellers, tour operators, and media worldwide. This recognition helps challenge and change the continent’s outdated perceptions, showcasing its vibrant cities, luxurious accommodations, pristine natural wonders, and rich cultural heritage.
The “winner” effect of the World Travel Awards can be a significant economic driver. Destinations and establishments that receive these accolades often experience a surge in interest and bookings. This increased tourism traffic translates directly into revenue for hotels, airlines, tour operators, and local businesses, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
Tanzania’s recent success, which was named “Africa’s Leading Destination” at the 2024 WTA Africa Gala Ceremony held in Kenya, is a testament to this. The country has seen a dramatic increase in visitor numbers and revenues, with government officials acknowledging the role of such awards in their tourism strategy.
Also, the rigorous selection process of the World Travel Awards, which involves voting by both the public and travel industry professionals, encourages a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. To be nominated, and ultimately win, tourism providers must consistently deliver exceptional service and unique experiences. This pursuit of excellence raises the bar for the entire industry, benefiting not only the award winners but all travellers to the continent.
For Nigeria, the World Travel Awards offer a significant platform to showcase its diverse tourism offerings and enhance its national brand. Several Nigerian establishments have consistently been recognised at the awards, demonstrating the country’s capacity for world-class hospitality.
Over the years, various other Nigerian hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators have been recognised in different categories. Each win contributes to building a stronger narrative of a vibrant and professional tourism sector in Nigeria. While the impact of these wins on Nigeria’s tourism industry is not always directly quantifiable in national statistics, it can be seen in increased visibility and positive public relations. This helps to counter negative narratives and project a more positive and inviting image of Nigeria.
International recognition from a prestigious body like the WTA can signal to potential investors that the Nigerian tourism market is viable and promising, encouraging foreign direct investment in the sector.
Plus, Nigerian brands’ success at the World Travel Awards can inspire and motivate other players in the local tourism industry to improve their standards and strive for excellence.
Discover the latest travel events in Nigeria — from cultural festivals and local tours to eco-adventures and heritage celebrations.
FAQs
1. When and where is the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2025?
The event will be held on Saturday, 28 June 2025, at the Johari Rotana hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
2. Who attends the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala?
The gala attracts nominees, industry leaders, influencers, and decision-makers across Africa and the Indian Ocean region’s travel and tourism sectors.
3. What is the significance of Tanzania hosting the event?
Hosting the ceremony highlights Tanzania’s growing importance as a regional tourism hub, showcasing its iconic destinations and world-class hospitality.
4. What can guests expect during the gala evening?
The event includes a cocktail reception, a gala dinner, the awards ceremony, and opportunities for networking in a glamorous black-tie setting.
5. How does the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2025 proceed after this event?
Following the Africa & Indian Ocean Gala, the tour continues to Cancun, Saint Lucia, Hong Kong, Sardinia, and Dubai, culminating in the Grand Final in Bahrain.