Honoring the World’s Most Exceptional Tourism Destinations: Nominations Now Open for the Second TOURISE Awards
The second cycle of the TOURISE Awards officially launched as a continuing global benchmark celebrating premier tourism destinations.
About the Awards
- Established in 2025 as a global benchmark for premier tourism destinations.
- The 2027 edition will celebrate destinations shaping the future of tourism — those delivering value across the journey, aligning with traveler purpose, and setting new standards.
- Public nominations are open from 1 September to 19 November 2026 via https://awards.tourise.com/
Award Categories
- Best Arts & Culture Destination
- Best Adventure Destination
- Best Food & Culinary Destination
- Best Shopping Destination
- Best Entertainment Destination
- Best Wellness Destination (new category)
Eligibility
Destinations must have:
1. A defined geographic scope (city, region, or site).
2. A distinct identity shaped by culture, landscapes, and attractions.
3. A tourism governing body ensuring effective management.
Leadership Perspective
- H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism (Saudi Arabia):
> “Recognizing excellence through the TOURISE Awards is more than a celebration, it is a decisive step toward shaping the future of global tourism…”
Jury Panel
An independent panel of cross-industry leaders, including:
- Albert Read (Condé Nast, Jury Chair)
- Filip Boyen (Forbes Travel Guide)
- Bernold Schroeder (Kempinski Hotels)
- Fiona Jeffery (World Travel Market)
- Michael Ellis (Michelin Guides)
- Omar Samra (UN Goodwill Ambassador, Explorer)
- Renaud de Lesquen (Givenchy, Dior)
- Lars Nittve (Tate Modern)
- Caroline Rush (British Fashion Council)
- Andrew Gibson (Accor Hotels, Wellbeing)
Evaluation Criteria
- 14 standards including authenticity, accessibility, safety, sustainability, and visitor experience.
- Each category will have one winner and two distinguished finalists.
- Winners announced at the TOURISE Awards Ceremony during the TOURISE Summit in Riyadh on 23 March 2027.
This cycle is not just about recognizing excellence — it’s about tracking long-term impact and progress, creating a living benchmark for how destinations evolve.
