Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has appointed the national airline, Maldivian, as the official local airline partner for the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean 2026.
Visit Maldives said the partnership agreement was signed as part of preparations for hosting the prestigious international tourism event in the Maldives.
The agreement was signed on behalf of Visit Maldives Corporation by Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree, while Maldivian Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem signed on behalf of the airline.
Under the agreement, Maldivian, as the official local airline partner, will support the successful delivery of the event by facilitating staff participation, providing airline services and offering operational support.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, VMC Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree said hosting the WTA regional gala ceremony in the Maldives presents a significant opportunity to showcase the country's tourism products and destination to leading international stakeholders in the tourism industry.
Shiuree said that, as the national airline, Maldivian plays an important role in connecting the islands and providing travel services across the country. He added that the partnership demonstrates the importance of cooperation and collaboration among Maldivian stakeholders in ensuring the success of the event and promoting the Maldives on the global tourism stage.
Meanwhile, Ana Salon has been appointed as the official make-up and beauty partner for this year's awards ceremony. The partnership agreement was signed by VMC Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree on behalf of Visit Maldives, while Ana Salon Marketing Manager Fathimath Naf'ath Ahmed signed on behalf of the company.
Ana Salon is a Maldivian local brand providing beauty and wellness services. As the official make-up and beauty partner of the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean 2026, Ana Salon will provide practical support during preparations for the event.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, VMC Managing Director and CEO Ibrahim Shiuree said welcoming Ana Salon as an official partner was a source of pride and represented the capability of Maldivian businesses and the collaborative efforts being made to ensure the successful delivery of the event. He added that the partnership would further strengthen the Maldives' reputation as a world-class tourism destination.
The World Travel Awards is an international tourism industry event that recognises and celebrates excellence across the global travel sector, bringing together leading destinations, tourism organisations and hospitality brands.
VMC said hosting the Asia, Oceania and Indian Ocean 2026 gala ceremony in the Maldives provides a valuable opportunity to showcase the country to key industry stakeholders at the international level, strengthen professional networks and reinforce the Maldives' position as one of the world's leading destinations.
This year's awards ceremony will be held at Crossroads Maldives on 27 September.