DURBAN ICC – 21 TIMES AFRICA’S LEADING MEETINGS & CONFERENCE CENTRE
Durban, South Africa – The Durban International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) has once again cemented its position as Africa’s premier business events destination after being named “Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre” at the prestigious 2026 World Travel Awards.
The latest accolade marks an extraordinary milestone for the Durban ICC, which has now received this coveted title 21 times since the category was first introduced in 2000—an achievement unmatched by any convention centre on the African continent.
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel and tourism industry,” the World Travel Awards recognise organisations that consistently demonstrate excellence in service, innovation, customer experience and industry leadership. The winners were announced at the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony held at the Diamonds Bijoux resort in Zanzibar last night.
Speaking following the announcement, Durban ICC Chief Executive Officer, Ms Lindiwe Rakharebe, said the award reflects nearly three decades of unwavering commitment to excellence and reinforces Durban’s standing as one of the world’s leading business events destinations.
“To be recognised as Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre for the twenty-first time is both an extraordinary honour and a powerful affirmation of the Durban ICC’s unwavering commitment to excellence. This achievement belongs to every member of our team, whose professionalism, dedication and passion continue to deliver exceptional experiences for our clients and delegates from around the world.”
Ms Rakharebe said the award is also a tribute to the Centre’s longstanding partnerships with its clients, event organisers, government, industry stakeholders, and the tourism sector, all of whom play an integral role in the Durban ICC’s continued success.
“No organisation achieves sustained success in isolation. This recognition reflects the strength of the partnerships we have built over many years and our shared commitment to positioning Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa as globally competitive destinations for business events, tourism and investment.”
Since opening its doors in 1997, the Durban ICC has established an international reputation for hosting world-class conferences, exhibitions, conventions, corporate events and entertainment productions that generate lasting economic and social benefits.
Over the years, the Centre has welcomed millions of delegates and visitors while hosting many of the world’s most influential international gatherings, including global summits, scientific congresses, trade exhibitions, association meetings and major public events. These events continue to contribute significantly to tourism, trade, investment, knowledge exchange and job creation across the region.
The World Travel Award adds to an impressive list of achievements for the Durban ICC, including its internationally recognised sustainability credentials, world-class service standards and longstanding reputation for sound governance and operational excellence.
Reflecting on the significance of the milestone, Ms Rakharebe said sustained excellence requires organisations to continually evolve in response to changing client expectations and industry trends.
“Awards such as these are never the destination; they are milestones on a journey of continuous improvement. The business events industry continues to evolve rapidly, and our commitment is to remain at the forefront through innovation, sustainability, exceptional service and meaningful partnerships that create value for our clients, our city and our country.”
The recognition comes at a time when Durban continues to strengthen its position as a leading meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination on the African continent, supported by world-class infrastructure, a vibrant tourism offering and a growing international events portfolio.
As the Durban ICC celebrates this historic achievement, the Centre remains focused on delivering exceptional experiences while driving economic growth, supporting the visitor economy and showcasing Durban and South Africa on the global stage.
“Winning this award for the twenty-first time is a proud moment in our history, but it also inspires us to look ahead. Our responsibility is to continue raising the standard of excellence, creating opportunities for our people and partners, and ensuring that the Durban ICC remains a catalyst for business, tourism and economic development for many years to come.”
-ENDS
Issued by: The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC)
For more information contact: Durban ICC Marketing & Communications Executive – Sandile Makhanya, 031 360 1192 or sandilema@icc.co.za