As the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 approaches, preparations are in full swing for what is expected to be the largest edition in its history. Slated to open next week at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025 is poised to break attendance records, with an anticipated 55,000 attendees from 161 countries. The event promises to be a global gathering for industry professionals, showcasing more than 2,800 exhibiting companies, marking a 12% year-on-year growth in exhibitor participation. This expansion comes as the event extends across 14 halls, signaling the increasing significance of the market in shaping the future of travel and tourism.
The theme of ATM 2025 is “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” This theme will explore the role of connectivity in shaping the future of tourism, highlighting the need for collaboration between industries, borders, and communities to drive sustainable growth. It will also explore the integration of technology, particularly in areas such as aviation, hospitality, and travel services. Key players from various sectors, including governments, airlines, hospitality groups, and travel agencies, are expected to discuss how connectivity can foster growth in a post-pandemic world.
Danielle Curtis, the exhibition director for ATM Middle East, explained that the future of tourism hinges on increased connectivity, which has become an essential factor in driving growth across the globe. As tourism evolves, the connections between regions, businesses, and communities play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable industry. This year’s event is expected to see a surge in participation from key global regions, especially Asia, which is anticipated to show a 20% increase in exhibitors. The Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Americas will also see steady growth, reflecting the rising demand for international travel and tourism.
With its world-class aviation infrastructure and a strong economy, Dubai serves as the ideal location to highlight the importance of connectivity in global travel. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, emphasized that Dubai’s long-standing collaborations and forward-thinking policies have positioned the city as a leader in both business and leisure tourism. ATM 2025 will continue this tradition, showcasing the city’s dedication to driving innovation, sustainability, and economic opportunities in tourism.
New features at ATM 2025 include the introduction of IBTM@ATM, a specialized zone for business events suppliers. This initiative will facilitate networking through pre-scheduled appointments and exchange sessions, providing a platform for industry experts to discuss the growth of business events and corporate travel. Additionally, the ATM Travel Tech section will be larger than ever before, with over 26% more tech-related products and services on display, underscoring the increasing convergence of technology and travel. A new Start-Up and Innovation zone will also be introduced, highlighting the role of emerging technologies in transforming the tourism sector. This zone will feature immersive virtual reality experiences, offering visitors a fresh perspective on the industry’s future.
The ATM 2025 conference program will feature over 200 high-profile speakers across three main stages: the Global Stage, the Future Stage, and the Business Events Stage. The discussions will cover a wide range of topics, including the future of aviation, climate action in tourism, hospitality trends, and the adoption of artificial intelligence across the sector. With such a diverse lineup, ATM 2025 offers invaluable opportunities for attendees to gain insights from industry leaders and exchange ideas about the future of travel.
As the event draws near, industry figures such as Haitham Mattar, Managing Director at IHG Hotels & Resorts, have shared their excitement about the new innovations and partnerships that ATM 2025 will foster. Al Rais Travel, another key partner, highlighted the significance of the event in facilitating stronger industry connections and promoting business tourism. As the official DMC partner for ATM 2025, Al Rais Travel emphasized its commitment to building lasting connections within the global tourism community.
Jonathan Heastie, the portfolio director for RX Global, expressed his enthusiasm for ATM 2025’s growth, noting that this year’s event would bring even more vibrant energy to the global tourism sector. With its strategic location in Dubai and its innovative approach to connecting the travel and tourism industry, ATM 2025 promises to be a milestone event that will shape the future of global travel.
