The Maldives has strengthened its status as a global gastronomic powerhouse with an impressive sweep of honours at the World Culinary Awards 2025 — including the prestigious title of World’s Best Destination for Heritage Cuisine. The achievement celebrates the nation’s rich culinary heritage, diverse dining landscape, and the exceptional talent shaping Maldivian cuisine today.
Competing against leading culinary destinations such as Germany, Peru, Seychelles, and Singapore, the Maldives stood out for its authentic flavours, cultural depth, and evolving global appeal.
At the regional level, the country dominated the Indian Ocean categories, winning:
- Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Destination 2025
- Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025 – Malé City
These accolades reflect the Maldives’ remarkable progress in both luxury resort dining and local culinary experiences.
A strong emphasis on skill development and education was also recognised, with the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies (Maldives National University) awarded Indian Ocean’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2025. This highlights the nation’s commitment to cultivating homegrown culinary talent and elevating hospitality standards.
Celebrating standout dining excellence across the country:
- Symphony Restaurant – Indian Ocean’s Best Landmark Restaurant
- Hadaba at SO/ Maldives – Maldives’ Best Hotel Restaurant
- H2O Restaurant – Maldives’ Best Culinary Experience
“These awards are a testament to the Maldives’ deep-rooted culinary identity and our industry’s ability to blend tradition with innovation,” said Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation. “From heritage cuisine to world-class dining, the Maldives continues to evolve as a destination where gastronomy plays an integral role in the visitor experience. We are proud of our chefs, restaurateurs, and institutions whose creativity and dedication have brought Maldivian cuisine to the global stage.”
The recognition comes at a time when the Maldives continues to shine on the world stage for tourism and sustainability. The destination is currently nominated for World’s Leading Destination 2025 and World’s Leading Green Destination 2025 at the World Travel Awards, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most forward-looking and celebrated holiday destinations.
The World Culinary Awards™, a sister event of the World Travel Awards™, honours global excellence in culinary tourism, recognising destinations and establishments that are defining the future of international dining and hospitality.
