Riyadh: The TOURISE Awards, a new global benchmark for celebrating excellence in tourism destinations, were officially launched during a virtual press conference hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, developed as part of the TOURISE platform, the awards aim to honor destinations that provide meaningful, memorable, and measurable value to travelers. Nominations are now open through July 9 for travelers, tourism professionals, and organizations wishing to recognize outstanding destinations worldwide.
TOURISE Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jean-Philippe Coss©, emphasized that the awards seek to spotlight destinations with a strong identity, responsible management, and measurable impact. He stated, “Tourism is not just a key economic engine – it is a powerful connector of cultures and a driver of sustainable change. These awards recognize destinations that inspire travelers and push the boundaries of what tourism can achieve.”
Eligible destinations must meet specific criteria, including a defined geographic scope, such as a city, region, or site; a distinct identity shaped by culture and natural assets; and the presence of a tourism authority overseeing destination management.
The awards will feature five main categories: Best Arts and Culture Destination, Best Adventure Destination, Best Food and Culinary Destination, Best Shopping Destination, and Best Entertainment Destination, along with a flagship category, Best Overall Destination. An independent panel of judges from diverse sectors, including tourism, fashion, art, culinary, and entertainment, will evaluate the nominations. Notable judges include Forbes Travel Guide former CEO Filip Boyen, Michelin Guides former Global Director Michael Ellis, and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Omar Samra.
Destinations will be assessed across 10 criteria grouped into three key pillars: offering, value, and convenience. Evaluation areas include authenticity, innovation, inclusion, sustainability, accessibility, accommodation variety, and safety.
Winners will be announced at the TOURISE Summit in Riyadh from Nov 11 to 13, a global gathering of leaders from tourism, travel, investment, and innovation, aimed at shaping the future of travel.