The Bahamas has been awarded the prestigious Caribbean Destination Resilience Award by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in collaboration with the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST). This award is a testament to The Bahamas’ unwavering commitment to sustainability and resilience in tourism, aligning with the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award acknowledges destinations that exhibit a deliberate focus on resiliency, particularly through innovative strategies and collaborative efforts that engage both public and private sector stakeholders. The Bahamas’ exemplary initiatives in addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development have set a benchmark in the region, making it a deserving recipient of this honour.

The Bahamas competed in Category A, for destinations with over 500,000 annual stopover visitors. The judging criteria encompassed five main themes: Commitments to Partnership and Collaboration, Sustainable/Resiliency Related Activities, Innovation and Technology, Linkages and External Engagement, and Contribution of Initiatives to Tourism.

The Bahamas' winning submission showcased the resilience of the Abacos post-Hurricane Dorian and highlighted the destination’s strategic use of collaborative partnerships. These efforts not only facilitated the region's reconstruction but also emphasized the importance of preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Through this balance, the Abacos ensure that visitors have memorable experiences that honour the environment and uplift local communities.

Across the Abacos, organizations such as The Abacos Stewardship Council, Friends of the Environment and the Bahamas National Trust worked with NGOs and other community organizations to collectively  address a number of issues across the destination including sustainable reconstruction, environmental restoration and community empowerment. This model demonstrated use of unparalleled strategies necessary for developing a sustainable future.

The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award highlights best practices in the region, serving as an inspiration for other destinations to adopt similar collaborative and innovative approaches to sustainability. The Bahamas’ recognition underscores its leadership in the Caribbean’s tourism sector, setting a high standard for resiliency and sustainable development.