UN Tourism Reveals ‘World’s Best Tourism Villages 2025’ – 52 Destinations Honoured, India Misses Out
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has unveiled the prestigious list of the ‘World’s Best Tourism Villages 2025’, celebrating 52 rural destinations across the globe that excel in sustainable and community-driven tourism. While the announcement highlights growing global efforts toward responsible and inclusive travel, no Indian village has made it to the list this year.
Masfout, UAE, Crowned World’s Best Tourism Village 2025
Leading the list is Masfout, a scenic mountain retreat in the Emirate of Ajman, United Arab Emirates. Known for its rugged charm, eco-friendly initiatives, and preservation of cultural heritage, Masfout’s recognition marks a significant milestone for the UAE’s evolving tourism landscape.
The award underscores the village’s commitment to balancing tourism growth with environmental sustainability and community well-being—principles that define the UN Tourism’s global rural tourism initiative.
Promoting Rural Excellence Through Sustainable Travel
Launched in 2021, the World’s Best Tourism Villages initiative by UN Tourism aims to identify and promote rural destinations that successfully integrate sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity into their tourism model.
Each year, hundreds of villages from UN member states are assessed against rigorous criteria, including cultural and natural resource preservation, environmental stewardship, governance, infrastructure, and community engagement.
For the 2025 edition, over 270 nominations from 65 countries were evaluated—of which 52 outstanding destinations earned a spot on the final list. Notable mentions include Agaete (Spain), Akyaka (Türkiye), Asuka (Japan), Chamarel (Mauritius), and Bled (Slovenia)—all recognized for transforming tourism into a catalyst for sustainable development and local empowerment.
Recognition for Responsible Tourism and Local Empowerment
Applauding the winners, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated:
“Tourism can be a transformative force for progress, fostering shared prosperity and inclusive growth in rural areas. The World’s Best Tourism Villages 2025 showcase communities that are safeguarding their cultural heritage while creating meaningful opportunities through sustainable tourism.”
These model destinations shows how responsible tourism can generate livelihoods, support local artisans, preserve cultural traditions, and improve quality of life in remote communities.
Why No Indian Village Featured This Year
The absence of Indian representation this year has sparked discussions within India’s tourism sector about the need for greater focus on global sustainability benchmarks and infrastructure readiness.
In previous editions, India was represented by Dhordo in Gujarat, famous for its desert festivals, and Lachen in Sikkim, celebrated for its eco-conscious travel initiatives. Experts suggest that while India’s rural tourism potential remains vast, future recognition will require stronger integration of sustainability practices and international visibility.
The Road Ahead for India’s Rural Tourism
Tourism experts believe India can emerge stronger by prioritizing community engagement, environmental protection, and digital promotion of its lesser-known destinations. Aligning national tourism initiatives with UN Tourism’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) could open global recognition for villages that beautifully blend tradition, culture, and nature.
A Global Reminder of Tourism’s Purpose
The ‘World’s Best Tourism Villages’ program remains a part of UN Tourism’s broader mission to make tourism a driver of inclusive rural development, cultural preservation, and job creation.
While India missed out this year, the 2025 list stands as a reminder that when travel is managed responsibly, it not only uplifts local communities but also protects the planet’s most treasured natural and cultural wonders.
MusafirBaba’s Insight
At MusafirBaba, we celebrate destinations that balance tourism with sustainability and community growth. As India continues strengthening its rural tourism framework, we look forward to seeing more of our incredible villages shine on the global stage.
