Cape Town has been named Africa’s Leading City Destination and Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination for 2026 at the World Travel Awards Africa Gala ceremony in Zanzibar.
According to Cape Town Tourism, the awards were presented at Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar on Friday night, with the two titles recognising Cape Town's strength as both a leisure destination and a business events hub.
The World Travel Awards are decided through votes from travel professionals, industry leaders and the travelling public.
Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy said the double win was significant for the city. “Winning one of these is a good night. Winning both is a statement,” Duminy said.
He said business tourism contributes to the wider tourism economy because conference delegates often extend their stays and return to the city for leisure.
“Visitors come for the conference but stay longer for the conversation. A visitor becomes a tourist, a trader and ultimately an investor. They experience our city, build relationships, discover opportunities and often return, bringing colleagues, friends and family with them.”
Duminy said combining Cape Town's business events offering with its tourism attractions creates opportunities for longer stays and repeat visits.
Business tourism drives wider economic impact
Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism James Vos said the recognition also has economic implications for the city.
“Every visitor who chooses Cape Town supports a job here,” he said.
He described business events as particularly valuable because they bring visitors to Cape Town during weekdays and outside traditional peak tourism periods.
“They arrive midweek and out of season, spend across the city, and bring decision-makers who can return with investment.”
Vos also highlighted Cape Town's international connectivity, with 31 international destinations currently linked directly to the city.
“Our focus is on growing that number, landing more flights, and strengthening our city-to-city relationships around the world,” he said.
According to Cape Town Tourism, arrivals at Cape Town International Airport from elsewhere in Africa grew by 17% in 2025, while foreign visitor spending in the city increased by 18%.
Cape Town will now progress to the World Travel Awards Grand Final later this year, where it will compete against regional winners from across the world.