Guyana has been named Best Emerging Destination 2026 at the World Tourism Awards in Brussels, Belgium, on Monday.

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues accepted the award on behalf of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana at the awards and gala dinner.

"This recognition is particularly meaningful to us because it reflects the remarkable transformation taking place in our country and the growing international recognition of Destination Guyana," she said.

The award comes as visitor arrivals continue to grow. Guyana recorded 453,489 arrivals in 2025, a 22 per cent increase over the previous year and the highest figure in the country's history. The growth has been supported by increased international air connectivity, new hotel developments and expanded tourism products.

Rodrigues said the Government's vision goes beyond arrival numbers.

"But our vision extends beyond increasing visitor numbers. We are committed to building a sustainable, inclusive and competitive tourism industry – one that creates meaningful opportunities for our people, supports local enterprises, empowers Indigenous communities," she said.

Tourism has been identified as a key pillar of the Government's economic diversification agenda. Investments are being made in infrastructure, air connectivity, accommodation, skills development and destination marketing to strengthen the sector's contribution to national development.

Rodrigues also acknowledged the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali and the contributions of government agencies, tourism stakeholders, private sector partners and communities.

Guyana's tourism offering continues to attract international attention for its rainforest landscapes, biodiversity, Indigenous heritage and adventure tourism. The Government aims to welcome more than one million visitors annually by 2030.

Rodrigues is in Brussels for the World Tourism Forum Institute's Annual Meeting 2026, being held from November 9–10 under the theme "Investment and Security".