Maldives to Host Inaugural World Creator Summit and Awards 2026

The Maldives is set to emerge as a global hub for the creator economy with the launch of the World Creator Summit 2026 and World Creator Awards 2026, scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 September.

The initiative, powered by Creatoll, aims to reshape how destinations are marketed by highlighting the growing role of digital creators in tourism storytelling.

The programme, organised by Visit Maldives Corporation in collaboration with the organisers of the World Travel Awards, will bring together a select group of creators, platforms, publishers, and tourism stakeholders for a high-level, invitation-only gathering. The inaugural edition will host around 50 participants from key markets, including India, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and several European countries.

The summit will feature discussions, curated experiences across the Maldives, and an awards platform recognising excellence in digital storytelling and creative influence. By leveraging creators’ ability to convey authenticity, cultural relevance, and emotional connection, the initiative reflects a shift in destination marketing from conventional advertising to creator-led engagement.

The partnership between Visit Maldives and the World Travel Awards was formalised at a signing ceremony in Malé on 2 April, attended by Visit Maldives Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree and World Travel Awards Executive Vice President Justin Cooke. The programme aims to establish the Maldives not only as a travel destination but also as a centre for the evolving global tourism storytelling ecosystem.