Rwanda has made a powerful impression on the global tourism stage after clinching the First and Best Appearance Award at the 2026 East Mediterranean International Tourism & Travel Exhibition (EMITT), currently underway in Istanbul from 5–7 February.
Participating through a strong delegation led by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), in partnership with the Rwanda Chamber of Tourism and the Embassy of Rwanda in Turkey, the country is showcasing its diverse tourism offerings to the Eastern Mediterranean market—one of the fastest-growing source regions for international travel.
The prestigious award recognises Rwanda’s outstanding exhibition stand, creativity, and overall presentation, highlighting the country’s rising profile as a premier leisure, business, and investment destination.
From its iconic mountain gorillas and rich biodiversity to world-class conference facilities and vibrant cultural experiences, Rwanda’s exhibition has captured the attention of international tour operators, investors, and travel media.
Speaking at the exhibition, representatives of the Rwandan delegation noted that the award reflects years of strategic investment in tourism development, branding, and service excellence.
“This recognition affirms Rwanda’s commitment to positioning itself as a high-quality, sustainable, and competitive destination on the global market,” one official said.EMITT is one of the world’s leading tourism exhibitions, bringing together thousands of industry professionals from across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Rwanda’s participation provides a valuable platform to strengthen partnerships, promote tour packages, and attract new visitors and investors from the Eastern Mediterranean region.
The award also underscores Rwanda’s broader tourism vision—one that blends conservation, community empowerment, and premium travel experiences.
With Kigali increasingly recognised as a regional hub for international meetings and events, and Rwanda’s natural attractions continuing to draw global acclaim, the country’s momentum in the tourism sector shows no signs of slowing.
As EMITT 2026 continues, Rwanda’s award-winning presence in Istanbul stands as a strong testament to the nation’s growing visibility, confidence, and appeal on the world tourism map.
By Andrew Shyaka
