Nominations are officially open for the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, inviting leading travel and hospitality brands and professionals from across South Asia to compete for recognition in excellence, innovation, and leadership. Now in its tenth year since its inception in 2016, SATA has established itself as one of the region’s most prestigious accolades in the travel and tourism sector, celebrating outstanding achievements from countries including Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and India.
Over the past decade, SATA has become a benchmark for quality in the regional tourism industry, honoring both established brands and dynamic individuals who are driving growth, creativity, and excellence in South Asia’s travel and hospitality landscape.
New Categories Highlight Emerging Talent
For the 2026 edition, SATA has expanded its awards with the introduction of two new individual categories:
- Outstanding Chef: recognizing culinary excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector.
- Outstanding Young Hotelier (Under 40 Years): celebrating emerging leadership and fresh talent in hotel management.
These additions reflect the evolving dynamics of South Asia’s tourism industry, spotlighting both the creative and managerial talent that contributes to the sector’s growth and international appeal.
Strong Endorsements Strengthen Credibility
SATA’s credibility is reinforced by endorsements from 15 leading international and government tourism organizations, including industry associations and national tourism boards across South Asia. This level of support underscores the awards’ transparency, integrity, and significance. Notable endorsing organizations include:
- Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)
- Association of Professionals in Tourism (APT)
- Association of Tourism Trade Organizations, India (ATTOI)
- Association of Travel Agents (ATA)
- Colombo Chamber of Commerce (CCC)
- Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators (CATO)
- Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL)
- Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB)
- Kerala Hotel General Manager Club (KHGMC)
- National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM)
- Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)
- Visit Maldives Corporation
- Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
- Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO)
- The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL)
- Bangladesh International Hotel Association (BIHA)
Such wide-ranging backing positions SATA as a respected and authoritative platform in South Asia’s travel and hospitality ecosystem.
Celebrating Excellence Across the Region
Over the years, SATA has been hosted in prominent destinations across South Asia, including Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, and the Maldives. The awards ceremonies have consistently brought together industry leaders for an annual celebration of excellence, attracting senior executives, hoteliers, tourism professionals, and media representatives.
Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a panel of experienced judges and industry experts. Categories range from South Asia’s Best New Hotel, Leading Riverfront Hotel, Leading Palace Hotel, to Leading Designer Hotel, among others. The awards not only recognize outstanding service and innovation but also highlight initiatives that drive sustainable growth and global competitiveness in the region.
A Platform for Networking and Growth
Beyond recognition, SATA serves as a powerful platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. The awards create opportunities for stakeholders to share insights, forge partnerships, and collectively contribute to positioning South Asia as a premier global travel destination.
For travel brands, professionals, and emerging talent, participating in SATA 2026 offers a chance to gain visibility, enhance credibility, and be celebrated among peers and industry leaders.
How to Submit Nominations
Nominations for SATA 2026 are now open and can be submitted online via the official portal: https://www.southasiantravelawards.com/nominationCreate. Interested participants must submit their entries by April 25, 2026, to be considered for this year’s prestigious awards.
With its focus on excellence, innovation, and leadership, the South Asian Travel Awards continue to set benchmarks in the tourism and hospitality industry, highlighting the region’s talent and strengthening South Asia’s reputation as a top-tier travel destination.
