Transforming Mediterranean Hospitality: AHA’s Launch of the Accessible Travel Hub in Malta

Published on December 9, 2025

AHA’s development of an international chapter in Malta is the first for the Mediterranean region and will help impart training and resources in hospitality accessibility. Malta’s hospitality inclusivity sector will gain the Mediterranean Hub for Accessible Hospitality. Supported by the Corinthia St. George’s Bay, the Mediterranean Accessible Hospitality Forum will launch in Malta in March 2026.

Why Malta?

Malta, with its strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a perfect location for this initiative. Known for its rich history and vibrant hospitality sector, Malta provides an ideal setting for discussions around accessible hospitality. The forum will serve as a platform for hospitality leaders from Malta and other Mediterranean nations to collaborate, share insights, and foster innovation in making the industry more inclusive.

The new chapter follows the success of AHA’s forums held in London, where hospitality businesses gathered to share ideas and best practices in accessible hospitality. These forums demonstrated that the industry is united in its mission to create a welcoming environment for all, regardless of physical ability.

Focus on Mediterranean Hospitality

The new Mediterranean chapter will mirror the success of previous forums, with a strong focus on practical, operator-driven solutions to enhance accessibility. Attendees will engage in discussions, learn about best practices, and share experiences that could pave the way for greater inclusivity in hospitality venues across the region.

The Mediterranean region, diverse in culture and market dynamics, spans from the Iberian Peninsula in the west to North Africa and the Levant in the east. By bringing operators together from this region, AHA seeks to create a more connected, accessible hospitality network, one that serves the needs of all travelers, regardless of their physical challenges.

Key Players Driving the Initiative

Leading the Mediterranean expansion is Robin Sheppard, co-founder and chair of AHA, alongside Denis Sheehan, co-founder and managing director. Other key figures include Frank Bothwell, founder and CEO of Thomas Franks, and Shawn Pisani, vice president of HelmsBriscoe. Their combined expertise and commitment to accessible hospitality are pivotal in driving forward this initiative.

Corinthia St George’s Bay, a luxury hotel that has been part of Malta’s hospitality landscape for over 60 years, will provide the backdrop for this significant forum. This venue’s heritage and status in the local and international hotel industry make it the perfect host for an event dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility.

The Role of Partnerships

AHA’s collaboration with Corinthia and other partners is critical to the success of this Mediterranean hub. As part of its expansion, AHA has also appointed Charlotte Evans as Group Partnerships Director. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality and events industry, Evans is tasked with fostering partnerships across Malta, the Mediterranean, and beyond. Her role will involve building strong relationships with key operators, stakeholders, and media partners to promote accessibility in hospitality.

Her appointment reflects AHA’s commitment to bringing experienced professionals to the forefront of this global initiative, helping to drive real change in the hospitality sector.

Inclusive Travel Guide for Travelers

For travelers with accessibility needs, this initiative brings new hope for a more inclusive experience across Mediterranean destinations. Travelers visiting Malta and the broader Mediterranean region will now benefit from a growing number of hotels, resorts, and service providers that are committed to accessibility.

Here’s a guide to making the most of accessible travel in Malta and the Mediterranean:

1. Research Accessible Accommodation: Look for hotels and resorts that actively promote accessibility, offering features such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and special equipment like lifts and hearing aids.
2. Check for Accessible Transportation: Ensure that public transport and taxis in the region offer accommodations for travelers with disabilities. Malta’s public transport system has been working towards inclusivity, with buses equipped for accessibility.
3. Book in Advance: Due to the increasing demand for accessible services, it’s always a good idea to book your accommodations and transportation in advance. This ensures that you get the services you need and avoid last-minute surprises.
4. Use Local Resources: Malta’s tourism authority and hospitality organizations provide helpful resources for travelers with disabilities, offering guides and recommendations for accessible sites and services.
5. Plan for Special Needs: Whether you require medical assistance, special diets, or personal care services, ensure that the establishments you visit are prepared to accommodate your needs.

Looking Ahead: A Global Movement

The Accessible Hospitality Alliance is not only pushing for change within Malta and the Mediterranean but has set its sights on expanding its reach globally. The alliance continues to hold forums and engage in projects that help build a more accessible future for the hospitality industry.

Events like the upcoming Mediterranean Forum represent significant milestones in making the hospitality sector more inclusive. Through collaboration with key partners and industry leaders, AHA is pushing forward a future where accessibility is an essential component of the hospitality experience, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the full benefits of travel and leisure.

Conclusion

Malta now has the Mediterranean Accessible Hospitality Hub which signifies the growth and impact of this global industry on inclusivity in travel and tourism. AHA has built a forum and has partnerships to advance and make executable accessible hospitality. For those travel and tourism patrons with accessibility challenges the Mediterranean region is becoming more inclusive and accessible to travel.