Durban International Convention Centre is making final preparations ahead of hosting the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2018.

Hundreds of the leading figureheads of the African and Indian Ocean travel industries are scheduled to attend the red-carpet gala this evening.

The evening will also mark the sixth leg of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2018 – an annual search for the finest travel and tourism organisations in the world, celebrating its 25th Silver Jubilee Anniversary this year.

Enviably located moments from Durban Beachfront, the world-class Durban ICC is a state-of-the-art events and entertainment venue, opened by the late Nelson Mandela in 1997.

This will be World Travel Awards third visit to the iconic facility, which also hosted ceremonies in 2008 and 2009.

Graham Cooke, founder, World Travel Awards, said: “It is with great anticipation that we return to the Durban ICC for the third time to host our African & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2018.

“I am honoured that this world-class convention centre, which has staged some of the world’s most prestigious events, is forming part of our 25th anniversary of celebrating travel industry excellence.

“I look forward to joining all our nominees for what promises to be a fabulous night.”

Durban ICC has also organised a full itinerary throughout the weekend for guests to discover the rich history and culture of Durban and surrounding areas.

The neighbouring Hilton Durban will form the networking hub for the weekend.

Lindiwe Rakharebe, chief executive, Durban ICC, said: “I cannot express my excitement at the prospect of hosting this prestigious event in our world-class facility at the Durban ICC and the beautiful destination of Durban.

“We are all looking forward to welcoming our industry colleagues, friends and media from around the world.

“We are ready to give all our special visitors a warm and unforgettable Durban experience.”

The landmark five-star hotel offers unrivalled accommodations in a supreme location, just moments from the Durban ICC and Durban’s beachfront.

As part of the Grand Tour 2018, World Travel Awards has also hosted ceremonies in Ras Al Khaimah (UAE), Athens (Greece), Hong Kong, Guayaquil (Ecuador) and Jamaica, with the winners progressing to the Grand Final in Lisbon (Portugal).