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Durban's tourism industry rolled out the red carpet this week as the city's biggest success stories were celebrated at the 5th Durban Tourism Business Awards. Themed Sapphire Elegance: Destination Pride and a Celebration of Durban's Tourism Excellence, the event marked a significant milestone for the programme.
Hosted at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, the annual awards honoured businesses, entrepreneurs, and tourism personalities helping to put Durban on the map as one of South Africa's most exciting destinations.
Durban's tourism sector showed up, with a record-breaking 401 entries received this year. Of those, 199 progressed to the adjudication stage.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Cyril Xaba praised the industry for its role in driving economic growth and creating jobs across the city: "The Durban Tourism Business Awards celebrate the businesses and individuals whose hard work, creativity and commitment continue to elevate Durban's tourism offering.”
Notable award winners
Among the night's big winners were Hollywoodbets Durban July, which took top honours in the Event Owners and Promoters category, while Durban favourite The Oyster Box secured two awards for Accommodation Hotel and Meetings, Exhibitions and Special Events.
Other notable winners included Shongweni Farmers Market for Green Tourism, Phezulu Safari Park for Visitor Experience, and Travel Bug Tours & Safaris for Tour Operator of the Year.
Exceptional achievement award winners
Special recognition was also awarded to businesses and individuals whose outstanding contributions, innovation, investment, and commitment to inclusivity have made a lasting impact on Durban's tourism landscape. These included:
- Creative Industry: DJ Tira
- Hospitality: Zai Restaurant
- Investment: Devmco Group
- Rural Investment and Township Economy Development: Indlondlo Cultural Village
- Product Owners with Disabilities: Wheels of Waves – Reece Smith
With the Hollywoodbets Durban July around the corner and Durban continuing to attract major events, the awards underscored the incredible offerings and work being done to position Durban as a top-class destination.
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