After a five-year hiatus, the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards are making a grand comeback and scheduled to be held on the 20th of December 2024. This marks the 7th edition of the prestigious event, celebrating the achievements of the travel and hospitality industry. The awards are set to benefit not only internationally renowned players but also small-scale entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s tourism ecosystem.

The primary objective of the event is to promote and enhance service standards, encourage best practices, and foster a culture of innovation and excellence within the tourism industry. By recognizing the achievements of individuals and organizations, Sri Lanka Tourism aims to inspire stakeholders to contribute to the sector’s sustainable growth. The event will also spotlight the creativity, innovation, and promotional efforts of all members of the travel and hospitality trade, positioning Sri Lanka as a world-class travel destination.

“This year’s awards are a testament to Sri Lanka’s resilience. By embracing inclusivity and recognizing the diverse contributions of all tourism stakeholders, we are charting a path forward that celebrates our country’s potential,” said Udana Wickramasinghe, Director Research and International Relations Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024 will not only showcase the promotional skills and products of seasoned professionals and budding entrepreneurs but also shine a global spotlight on Sri Lanka. The partnerships Sri Lanka Tourism holds with international organizations such as the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) bring further credibility to the event, solidifying the island’s reputation as one of Asia’s most renowned travel destinations.

The awards have grown significantly since their inception in 2008. While the last event in 2018 celebrated the industry’s excellence and innovation, the subsequent years saw disruptions due to the Easter Sunday attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s revival is a milestone for the tourism sector, signifying its recovery and optimism for the future.

“This year, we are focusing on inclusivity, which is essential for the tourism industry to thrive. From local vendors to luxury hotels, everyone plays a role in creating a vibrant and sustainable tourism sector,” said Upali De Silva, Consultant Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

The theme for this year’s awards is Inclusive Tourism, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for all stakeholders, from grassroots entrepreneurs to multinational operators. Inclusivity and diversity are essential pillars of the tourism sector, Sri Lanka’s second-largest foreign exchange earner and a vital driver of economic growth.

The award categories reflect this inclusivity, covering areas such as youth contributions to tourism, sustainable practices, international award winners, and recognition for airlines, charter operators, cruise facilitators, and more. Special focus will be placed on sectors like nature, eco, and wildlife tourism, MICE tourism, and marketing and communications, alongside excellence in service.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2024 aims to rejuvenate the tourism sector by highlighting its contributions to the economy and global reputation. By celebrating the industry’s accomplishments, the event hopes to encourage more stakeholders to join and innovate within the sector, ultimately enhancing Sri Lanka’s appeal to travelers worldwide.

With over 150 participants already registered across various categories, the awards promise to be an energetic and inspiring celebration of Sri Lanka’s unique hospitality, rich culture, and breathtaking attractions.