The Maldives has been named the World's Best Green Destination at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024, a recognition of the government's visionary sustainability initiatives.
Competing with renowned destinations such as Chile, Madagascar, Norway and Peru, this is the first time that the Maldives has received this prestigious distinction, reinforcing its status as a global leader in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The government has set itself an ambitious objective: to increase 33% of national energy production from renewable sources by 2028. This commitment is based on global policies aimed at exploring renewable energy technologies and training human resources. qualified workers, reduce energy costs and waste, integrate renewable energies into transport and strengthen regulatory frameworks. These efforts are supported by the Maldives Energy Act (Act No. 18/2021), which provides a strong basis for encouraging sustainable energy practices nationwide.
Among the government's flagship initiatives, the STELCO project
It is an ambitious program led by the national power company, which aims, by the end of the current term, to provide 12 hours of solar electricity to the islands at low peak load. This project will significantly reduce reliance on diesel generators and emissions. The success of solar integration on the island of Vaavu Rakeedhoo, where diesel engines are now turned off for up to 22 hours a day, demonstrates the transformative potential of renewable energy. Similar projects are underway on other islands, demonstrating the Maldives’ commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
This award also highlights the integration of sustainability in the Maldives tourism industry, which has become a global benchmark for eco-friendly travel. The country's unspoilt natural beauty, combined with its forward-thinking environmental policies, has positioned the Maldives as a leader in sustainable tourism. Visitors can thus enjoy unparalleled luxury while contributing to the preservation of one of the most fragile ecosystems in the world.
The World Travel Awards, widely regarded as the travel and tourism industry's most prestigious accolades, celebrate excellence across all key sectors. Winners are chosen through a global voting process involving travel professionals and consumers. This new distinction confirms the Maldives' leadership in balancing economic growth and environmental preservation, highlighting the government's unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future for the nation and its people.
The Maldives were widely awarded at the 2024 World Awards
+The world's flagship destination in 2024: the Maldives
+Number one green destination in the world: the Maldives
+Leading global seaplane operator in 2024 – Trans Maldivian Airways
+Best Airport Resort in the World in 2024 – Hulhule Island Hotel, Maldives
+Best Luxury Honeymoon Resort in the World in 2024 – Vakkaru Maldives
+Best Luxury Island Resort in the World in 2024 – The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
+Best Private Island Resort in the World in 2024 – Velaa Private Island, Maldives
+Best Overwater Villa Resort in the World in 2024 – Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
