Gambia’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Abdoulie Jobe, has been named World’s Best Minister for 2026 at the World Government Summit held in Dubai, marking a major international recognition for the country’s tourism leadership.
The award was presented by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. Jobe was selected from a shortlist of 10 ministers drawn from around the world.
According to the organisers, Jobe was recognised for outstanding leadership in turning policy into concrete results, driving innovation, and delivering measurable social impact. The award honours ministers whose initiatives are scalable beyond their home countries and can inspire governments globally to improve public service delivery, particularly through the use of advanced technologies and digital solutions.
Under Jobe’s stewardship, The Gambia’s tourism sector has recorded steady growth, reinforcing its role as a key pillar of the national economy. Tourism remains a major contributor to GDP and provides livelihoods for thousands of Gambians across hotels, transport, cultural industries, and small businesses.
Often referred to as “Africa’s Smiling Coast,” The Gambia continues to attract visitors with its Atlantic beaches, the River Gambia, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels, complemented by a reputation as one of the safest destinations in West Africa.
Speaking to Gulf News on the sidelines of the summit, Jobe highlighted ongoing government efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure and attract investment.
“We are providing land resources for resorts and hotels and creating supportive policies to ensure inclusive development,” he said. “If you do good, you get recognised. I plan to continue the work that has brought us here.”
The selection process for the award focused on leadership in governance, transparency, and citizen-centred policies. Judges assessed candidates on government agility, preparedness, innovation, and long-term vision.
Jobe also pointed to the UAE, particularly Dubai, as a model for destination development.
“In terms of tourism, there’s a lot that all of us can learn from the UAE, especially Dubai, in terms of its offerings and what it has achieved as a destination of choice,” he said.
Receiving the award, Jobe described the honour as “incredible” and a “huge privilege,” noting that the recognition from Sheikh Mohammed would help place The Gambia more firmly on the global tourism map.
“When people know about the destination and its unique attractions, they become interested and curious to visit,” he added.
With this international recognition, The Gambia hopes to further boost global visibility for its tourism sector while deepening investments in sustainable infrastructure and strengthening public-private partnerships.
