Iniala Harbour House Once Again Only Hotel In Malta To Receive Forbes 5 Star Award

Feb 13 2025

Iniala Harbour House & Residences in Valletta has been recognised as Malta’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel for the fourth consecutive year, making it one of just 336 hotels worldwide to receive this prestigious accolade.

It is also home to Malta’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan, further cementing its reputation as the country’s leading luxury hotel.

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The Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas, assessing over 2,000 properties across 85+ countries.

Anonymous inspectors evaluate hotels against hundreds of rigorous standards, awarding Five Stars only to those that meet the highest levels of service and luxury.

This sustained recognition highlights Iniala Harbour House’s commitment to exceptional hospitality, outstanding guest experiences, and world-class service. Mark Weingard, Founder of Iniala Group, expressed his pride in the achievement, describing it as a reflection of the team’s dedication and a promising start to an exciting year ahead.

Founded in 2020, the hotel features 23 uniquely designed rooms and suites across historic Maltese townhouses and palazzos, offering stunning views of the Grand Harbour.

Beyond luxury, Iniala Harbour House prioritises sustainability and community engagement, implementing eco-friendly practices and supporting local initiatives, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in Malta’s high-end hospitality sector.

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Harsher Penalties For Attacks On Public Officials Approved

Feb 13 2025

The Maltese Parliament has approved legal amendments that toughen penalties for attacks on public officials, ensuring that individuals who assault police officers or other public servants on duty will no longer receive suspended sentences.

These amendments also increase fines and prison terms to allow courts to impose stricter penalties.

During the parliamentary process, Minister Byron Camilleri emphasized that these amendments strengthen judicial tools while reinforcing respect for law enforcement.

He highlighted a 67% decrease in violence against police over the past four years, partly due to increased investment in personnel and resources. However, the government proceeded with these changes to further deter attacks.

Key Amendments:

Insults, threats, or personal offences: Minimum fine raised from €800 to €1,200; maximum from €5,000 to €7,500.

Violent resistance or attacks by one or two individuals: Prison sentences increased from 6 months–2 years to 1–4 years; fines increased from €4,000–€10,000 to €6,000–€15,000.

Violent resistance or attacks by three or more individuals: Prison sentences increased from 9 months–3 years to 1.5–6 years; fines increased from €5,000–€15,000 to €7,500–€22,500.

Use of a weapon in an attack: Prison sentences increased from 1–4 years to 1.5–6 years; fines increased from €8,000–€20,000 to €12,000–€30,000.

Public violence during these offences: Prison sentences increased from 2–5 years to 3–7 years; new fines introduced, ranging from €10,000 to €25,000.

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75 Year Old Man At Risk of Dying After Siggiewi Accident

Feb 13 2025

A 75 year old man resident of Ħaz-Zebbug was injured after he fell off a ladder as he worked in a field in Wied il-Hesri, Siggiewi.

Police were informed of the accident at around 2030hrs.

A medical team were called on site along with Civil Protection officials, with an ambulance taking the man to Mater Dei.

He was later certified to have suffered serious injuries.

An inquiry has been opened and investigations are ongoing.

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3.56 Million Tourists Visited Malta In 2024

Feb 13 2025

Malta welcomed a record 3.56 million tourists in 2024, marking a 19.5% increase over 2023.

Total tourist expenditure reached €3.3 billion, up 23.1% from €2.7 billion in 2023, with an average spend of €924 per visitor. Despite shorter stays, spending levels remained stable.

Malta outperformed Europe’s overall tourism growth, which was 5% over 2023 and just 1% over 2019. The country also led the Southern Mediterranean in tourism revenue growth, with a 22% rise in export revenue.

The UK remained Malta’s top inbound market, followed by Italy. The strongest growth came from Poland (+58.3%), Hungary (+35.6%), the Netherlands (+34.0%), and the UK (+30.6%). Total guest nights rose 13% to nearly 23 million, although the average stay declined from 6.8 to 6.4 nights.

The figures were announced at the 2025 Malta National Tourism Conference, attended by key government and industry stakeholders.

Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) officials credited strategic planning and investment for the strong results.

MTA CEO Carlo Micallef emphasised Malta’s ability to attract high-value visitors, while Chairman Dr. Charles Mangion highlighted the focus on sustainable, long-term tourism growth. Malta continues to strengthen its position as a leading Mediterranean destination.

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