Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Tanzania is getting ready to welcome the world as it hosts one of the most prestigious events in global tourism — the World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2025. The celebration is set to take place on 28 June at the elegant Johari Rotana Hotel in the heart of Dar es Salaam.
This highly anticipated event will bring together travel and tourism leaders from across the continent for a night of recognition, connection, and celebration — all under the warm Tanzanian sky.
Why Tanzania?
Whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti, hiking up the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on the sun-soaked beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania has something for every traveler. That’s exactly why the country was chosen to host the opening ceremony of WTA’s 2025 Grand Tour, which includes stops in Mexico, Saint Lucia, Hong Kong, Italy, Dubai, and a grand finale in Bahrain.
Graham Cooke, Founder of the World Travel Awards, shared his excitement:
“Tanzania is one of Africa’s most exciting travel destinations. Hosting the Gala is a reflection of its growing impact on global tourism, and we can’t wait to share its beauty with the rest of the world.”
A World-Class Venue
The event will be held at Johari Rotana, a five-star hotel that offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and sits right in the middle of Dar es Salaam’s bustling business district. It’s the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and convenience — ideal for hosting such a high-level event.
A Proud Moment for Tanzania
Ephraim Mafuru, Director General of the Tanzania Tourist Board, says hosting the Gala is a huge opportunity:
“We are honoured to welcome the travel industry to Tanzania. This is our moment to show the world what makes our country so special — the landscapes, the cultures, and above all, the people.”
More Than Just an Awards Show
The WTA Gala isn’t just about handing out trophies. It’s a powerful networking platform, bringing together government leaders, tour operators, hoteliers, and media from around the globe. For Tanzania, it’s also a chance to boost tourism, build partnerships, and inspire more people to visit.
With just weeks to go, the energy is building. One thing is certain — when the world arrives in Tanzania on 28 June, they’ll find more than just an award ceremony. They’ll discover the soul of a country that’s ready to shine.