ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ENTRIES STILL OPEN FOR THE 5TH DURBAN TOURISM BUSINESS AWARDS
Entries for the 5th annual Durban Tourism Business Awards are still open and will officially close on 23 March 2026.
These awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and resilience within the tourism sector, recognising businesses that help position Durban as a leading global destination.
From hospitality and attractions to tour operators and creative enterprises, the awards highlight those driving growth and enhancing the City’s visitor experience.
Durban Tourism encourages all eligible businesses to enter, as entries will not be accepted after the closing date.
To enter, all tourism businesses within eThekwini Municipality are invited to click on the link below https://durbantourismawards.
Upon successful submission, an automated email confirmation will be received.
Selected businesses may also be eligible for developmental prizes which will enhance their operations.
Additionally, all category winners will be in line to receive up to R50,000 in prize money.
Award Categories Include:
* **Accommodation Awards:** Excellence in hotels and non-hotels
* **MESE Awards:** Honouring Meetings, Exhibitions, Special Events, and world-class MESE venues
* **Visitor Experiences Awards:** Celebrating destinations that create unforgettable memories for visitors
* **Tourist Guides Awards:** Recognising nature, adventure, and culture guides
* **Tour Operators Awards:** Awarding excellence in inbound travel package curation and execution
* **Rickshaw Pullers:** Honouring the cultural heritage and service of local operators
* **Crafters:** Celebrating the artistry of local creators
* **Event Owners and Promoters:** Recognising high-impact events that profile Durban and attract visitors
* **Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year:** Recognising successful black-owned SMMEs
* **Green Tourism Awards:** Leaders in sustainability and eco-friendly practices
* **Film Makers Award:** Showcasing films shot in Durban that highlight the destination.
To ensure integrity and transparency, a thorough tabulation and audit process will be conducted, followed by a public voting phase to raise awareness of local tourism products.
An independent panel of judges will also visit nominated businesses to assess their suitability.
Community Tourism Organisations, industry stakeholders, organised tourism businesses, and the public are encouraged to nominate and motivate deserving tourism businesses in their areas.
For more information, please email: info@durbantourismawards.com or call 031 322 4164.
Interested establishments and individuals can visit http://www.durbantourismawards.com or eThekwini Municipality’s website at www.durban.gov.za.
Follow the Durban Tourism social media pages on Facebook, X, and Instagram @DBNTourism.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
