The 10th edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026 is officially set to kick off in 10 days. Industry leaders, hospitality pioneers, and tourism delegates from across the region are gearing up for this milestone event, which highlights a decade of excellence in South Asian travel and tourism.

Hosted at Barceló Nasandhura Malé, the gathering underscores the Maldives' status as a primary venue for premier regional occasions.

Established in 2016 and endorsed by 15 leading regional tourism organisations, SATA serves as the benchmark for recognition in the travel sector, acknowledging outstanding achievement across hospitality, aviation, and tourism services in India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh to elevate the region's global profile.

The SATA partners include:

1. Host Partner – Barceló Nasandhura Malé

2. Destination Partner – Visit Maldives Corporation 

3. Platinum Partner – Gulf Craft Maldives

4. Gold Partner – Hawks Pvt Ltd

5. Gold Partner – Allied Insurance Company of the Maldives 

6. Beverage Partner – Nescafe

7.Silver Partner – Velana International Airport

8. Silver Partner – Marine Vibe

9. Silver Partner – Pro AC

10. Digital Partner – Dhiraagu 

11. Printing Partner – Print Lab Creative

12. Hospitality Partner – Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan (Bangladesh)

13. Hospitality Partner – Hulhule Island Hotel (Maldives)

14. Hospitality Partner – Zhiwaling Heritage (Bhutan)

15. Hospitality Partner –  Aarya Hotel & Spa (Nepal)

16. Hospitality Partner – Sheraton Grand Bangalore at Brigade Gateway (India)

17. Hospitality Partner – Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Sri Lanka)

The event commences on October 7, 2026, with the Connect & Conversation (C&C). Featuring insightful panel discussions, the C&C provides a vital platform for industry stakeholders to share dialogue on market trends and share fresh insights.

SATA Connect is a networking event designed in an exhibition-style format, where information counters are set up to showcase the services and products of industry players. This segment provides a unique opportunity for attendees to interact directly with industry representatives, discover latest offerings, and learn about the innovations shaping South Asia's travel and tourism sector.

The excitement reaches its peak on October 8 with the prestigious Gala Night. Marking a memorable celebration of regional distinction, Gold and Silver winners will be recognized across diverse categories, spotlighting hospitality talent from Bhutan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Medias across South Asia are set to provide coverage for SATA events 2026.

As Highrise continues its long-standing role in organizing and executing this landmark event, SATA 2026 promises not only to honor current triumphs but also to set a bold trajectory for the future of South Asian hospitality.