The Malta Tourism Awards 2025 celebrated the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations within Malta’s tourism industry, recognising their commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable development. Held at the Malta Marriott Resort & Spa on 14th April 2026, the event brought together key stakeholders from across the sector to honour achievements that continue to strengthen Malta’s position as a leading quality tourism destination.
Organised by the Malta Tourism Authority, the Malta Tourism Awards serve as a platform to acknowledge and promote the efforts of businesses and professionals who are shaping the future of Maltese tourism. This year’s edition highlighted excellence across a broad spectrum of categories, with particular emphasis on responsible tourism practices, service quality, and workforce development.
The evening commenced with an opening address by the Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority Dr Charles Mangioin, followed by a keynote speech by CEO Mr Carlo Micallef, who outlined the Authority’s ongoing commitment to fostering a resilient, innovative, and sustainable tourism sector in line with Malta’s National Tourism Strategy 2021–2030.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, commended the award winners and thanked all those who contribute to tourism in Malta and Gozo for their passion and professionalism. “This industry continues to move forward in the right direction, through a clear and ambitious strategy in close collaboration between the Government, the private sector and other stakeholders, including our communities. As we consolidate existing markets and target new ones – including the long-awaited Malta-New York flights starting this summer – we must continue to embrace innovation, invest in quality, and anticipate the needs of our travellers today and tomorrow,” Dr Borg said.
A key segment of the ceremony was the Responsible Tourism Development Awards, which recognised organisations demonstrating outstanding commitment to sustainability, innovation, and long-term resilience. Awards were presented across multiple categories, including English Language Learning, Diving Centres, Domestic Transport, Visitor Attractions, Travel & Tourism Services, Catering Establishments, and Accommodation providers. Winners in these categories were:
- Alpha School of English – Best English Language Learning
• Maltaqua – Best Diving Centre
• Luzzu Tours Malta – Best Domestic Transport - Odyssey Malta – Best Visitor Attraction
• MC Adventure – Best Travel & Tourism
• Hammett’s Monastik – Best Catering Establishment
• Verdala Wellness Hotel- AX Privilege – Best Accommodation (<75 bedrooms) - The Waterfront Hotel – Best Accommodation (>75 bedrooms)
The ceremony also featured a Special Theme Recognition, highlighting contributors to the Malta Tourism Authority’s promotional campaign between 2023 and 2025 focusing on LGBTIQ+ inclusion. Thirteen organisations were recognised for their valuable contribution to promoting Malta as an inclusive and welcoming destination.
Another central highlight of the evening was the Tourism Worker of the Year Awards, which honoured individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism within their respective fields. Awards were presented across various sectors of the tourism industry, including Tourist Guides, English Language Learning, Diving Centres, Visitor Attractions, Travel & Tourism Services, Catering, and Accommodation. The award recipients were:
- Giacomo Muscat – Malta Themed Tours – Tourist Guides
• Allen Lofarlo – English Path Malta – English Language Learning
• Max Valli – OrangeShark Diving Centre – Diving Centres
• MariaElena Zammit – Hagar Qim – Visitor Attractions
• Giacomo Muscat – Malta Themed Tours – Travel & Tourism Services
• Christopher Cassar – Ta’ Kris Restaurant – Catering
• Elena Distefano – Cugo Gran Macina – Accommodation (<75 bedrooms)
• Neville Juan Cardona – The Phoenicia Malta – Accommodation (>75 bedrooms)
Commenting on the event, Mr Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, noted: “The Malta Tourism Awards continue to showcase the remarkable talent, dedication, and innovation that define our industry. The individuals and organisations recognised this evening exemplify the standards of excellence that are essential for Malta’s continued success as a competitive and sustainable tourism destination.”
The Malta Tourism Awards 2025 not only celebrated achievements over the past year but also reinforced the importance of responsible leadership, continuous improvement, and collaboration across the sector. The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for industry professionals to connect and celebrate their shared commitment to excellence.
The achievements of the award recipients continue to play a vital role in enhancing Malta’s international reputation as a high-quality tourism destination while contributing to the long-term growth and resilience of the industry.
