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Date: 8 October 2026
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has honoured Alfred Pisani, Founder and Executive Chairman of Corinthia, with its prestigious WTTC Icon Award, recognising his extraordinary contribution to hospitality and his role in creating one of Malta's most successful international brands.
The award was presented during a VIP Dinner at WTTC's 26th Global Summit in Malta, bringing together more than 1,000 delegates, including over 200 of the world's leading Travel & Tourism CEOs and government ministers. The award was received by Alexandra Pisani, General Manager, Corinthia Palace & Executive of Development, Corinthia Hotels.
The WTTC Icon Award recognises individuals whose lifetime contribution has shaped destinations, institutions or the Travel & Tourism sector itself, raising the quality, profile and impact of tourism for generations.
Alfred Pisani's journey began with the opening of a restaurant in Malta in 1962, followed by the launch of the iconic Corinthia Palace Hotel in 1968. Over the decades, he transformed that vision into Corinthia, a globally recognised hospitality brand with hotels and developments spanning major international markets.
His entrepreneurial leadership helped position Malta on the global hospitality map and demonstrated how a home-grown company could compete successfully on the international stage while remaining true to its origins.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Maltese hospitality, Pisani has played a defining role in exporting Maltese excellence around the world and building a brand synonymous with quality, service and innovation.
Gloria Guevara, President &CEO, WTTC, said: "Alfred Pisani's story is one of vision, perseverance and ambition. From Malta, he created a hospitality brand that has earned global recognition while remaining deeply connected to the values on which it was founded. His contribution extends far beyond a successful business. He has helped showcase Maltese hospitality to the world and inspired generations of entrepreneurs and tourism leaders. We are delighted to recognise that remarkable legacy."
WTTC's recognition celebrates a lifetime of achievement and honours a leader whose vision has helped shape both Malta's tourism sector and the global hospitality industry.
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About the World Travel & Tourism Council
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is the global body representing the private sector of Travel & Tourism and the leading authority on the sector’s economic and social contribution worldwide. Its members include Chairmen, Presidents and CEOs of the world’s leading travel and tourism companies across hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, technology platforms and destinations, spanning every major region globally.
WTTC works to advance sustainable growth across the Travel & Tourism sector by driving collaboration between industry leaders and governments, shaping global policy, and providing authoritative research on the sector’s economic impact worldwide.