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Two initiatives implemented by Green Rock Foundation in Dilijan, Armenia, have received international recognition at the World Tourism Awards 2026, organised by the World Tourism Forum Institute (WTFI).

The Dilijan Urban Design Framework has received the Best Tourism Destination Development Project award, while Apicius Armenia has been named Best Hospitality School in 2026. 

The Dilijan Urban Design Framework (DUDF) received the Best Tourism Destination Development Project 2026 award. The project was recognised for its approach to destination development, which places community participation, sustainable urban planning and the long-term needs of the local community at its centre. The school received the award in recognition of its contribution to hospitality education through international expertise, practical training and the development of local talent.

The award ceremony took place on 9 November at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels.

Together with a representative of Green Rock Foundation, Liparit Santrosyan, Head of the Urban Planning and Land Management Department of Dilijan Municipality, and Massimo Bocus, Director of the Food and Wine Studies programme at Florence University of the Arts and member of the Advisory Board at Apicius Armenia, travelled to Brussels and received the awards on behalf of the two initiatives.

The World Tourism Awards are part of WTFI's international recognition programme, which presents awards across 100 categories. All participants undergo an approximately four-month, evidence-based expert assessment process, during which their operational performance, innovation, sustainability, market impact, leadership, reputation, ethical standards and contribution to the tourism industry are evaluated.

Katya Bredikhina, Director of Green Rock Foundation, said: "These recognitions are particularly meaningful to us because they reflect two important dimensions of our work in Dilijan: investing in community development and creating a better environment in the city. We believe that a sustainable tourism destination cannot be developed through infrastructure alone. Education, professional opportunities, a strong local community and thoughtful long-term planning are also essential. The international recognition of both initiatives is an important and encouraging acknowledgement of the approach we have adopted."

Massimo Bocus, Director of the Food and Wine Studies programme at Florence University of the Arts and member of the Advisory Board at Apicius Armenia, said: "We are very proud of our partnership in Dilijan and of Apicius Armenia's achievements. The school reflects the educational philosophy, curriculum and professional standards of Apicius Florence, combining international expertise with practical, industry-oriented education. We are always pleased to bring our educational approach and international hospitality standards to promising destinations such as Armenia, and particularly Dilijan, which has great potential for tourism and hospitality development."

Liparit Santrosyan, Head of the Urban Planning and Land Management Department of Dilijan Municipality, said: "The development of the Dilijan Urban Design Framework is an important step towards establishing a shared vision for the city's future. It sets out principles for more coordinated urban development, taking into account Dilijan's natural environment, architectural identity and the needs of its residents. We believe that cooperation between the municipality, the private sector and the local community is essential for the city's sustainable development. This international recognition brings additional attention to the importance of this work."

Both initiatives reflect Green Rock Foundation's commitment to Dilijan's long-term development, with a focus on strengthening the city's social and physical infrastructure.

World Tourism Award 2026 marks the second international recognition for Green Rock Foundation's initiatives in Dilijan. At the 2026 International Business Awards®, the Foundation received a Silver Stevie® Award in the category "A Replicable Blueprint for Small-Town Renewal."

About Green Rock Foundation

Green Rock Foundation is a nonprofit organisation supporting the long-term development of Dilijan through initiatives in education, culture, environmental protection and community engagement. The Foundation focuses on strengthening the city's social infrastructure and creating new opportunities for local residents, while Green Rock Management Group works in parallel on the development of physical infrastructure, including hospitality, cultural and public spaces. Together, their activities contribute to making Dilijan a more sustainable, vibrant and attractive city for residents and visitors alike.