Maldives secures top spot as World’s Most Desirable Islands in Wanderlust 2025 rankings

Maldives has been awarded Bronze in the World’s Most Desirable Island(s) category at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2025, reaffirming its enduring appeal among international travellers, particularly from the United Kingdom.

The award was accepted by Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), at a ceremony held at London’s National Gallery on 5 November 2025. The event brought together leading figures from the global travel industry to celebrate excellence across 22 categories, recognising destinations, tour operators and airlines that inspire meaningful and responsible travel.

This year’s awards attracted 208,000 readers, who collectively cast 4.8 million votes to determine the winners. The results reflect the real experiences and sentiments of seasoned travellers, who continue to regard the Maldives as one of the world’s most desirable destinations.

“We are honoured to see the Maldives recognised once again by the readers of Wanderlust,” said Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation. “This recognition underscores the strong connection between the Maldives and British travellers, who continue to view our islands as a sanctuary of natural beauty, culture and authentic experiences.”

Now in its 24th edition, the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards remain among the most respected accolades in the international travel sector. The 2025 ceremony, hosted by British presenter, author and adventurer Simon Reeve, was organised in partnership with Visit Oman and reflected the views of Wanderlust’s loyal and well-travelled readership.