The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 is poised to play a pivotal role in the global tourism landscape, offering an unparalleled platform for industry professionals to engage in discussions and showcase innovations that will define the future of travel. Scheduled to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 28 April to 1 May 2025, this highly anticipated event will bring together key players from sectors such as leisure, luxury travel, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions), and corporate travel, all under the overarching theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.”
In light of the unprecedented growth within the global travel and tourism sector, ATM 2025 is set to become the key driver of industry evolution. With the world slowly emerging from the challenges brought on by the pandemic, this event will underscore the importance of connectivity as the backbone of tourism’s future.
The Growing Importance of Connectivity in Global Tourism
At the heart of ATM 2025 is the concept of connectivity—not just in a technological sense, but across borders, industries, and communities. The 2025 edition will place a spotlight on how enhanced cross-border collaboration, innovative solutions, and community engagement are integral to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for global tourism.
Commenting on the theme, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, emphasizes the importance of building communities that serve as essential hubs for both trade and tourism. According to Curtis, ATM 2025 aims to foster a future where tourism is more closely aligned with global economic growth, ensuring that travel becomes more sustainable, accessible, and impactful in the years to come.
As international travel continues to rebound, connectivity is essential for creating seamless travel experiences, supporting infrastructure development, and fostering global collaboration. By bringing together thought leaders and industry experts, ATM 2025 will provide a space to explore and harness the latest trends and technologies that are shaping this rapidly evolving landscape.
Dubai’s Role as a Premier Tourism Hub
Dubai’s status as a global tourism powerhouse continues to rise. In July 2024, the Dubai Media Office (DMO) reported that the city had welcomed a record 9.31 million international visitors in the first half of the year, marking a significant 9% increase from the same period in 2023. This growth is fueled by strategic government initiatives, including the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade and establish the city as one of the world’s top urban economies.
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) plays a crucial role in supporting this growth by facilitating a business-friendly environment that attracts foreign investment and fosters global partnerships. The city’s appeal as a business and leisure destination is further enhanced by its world-class attractions, luxurious accommodations, and renowned hospitality industry.
Dubai’s rise as a global smart city is another significant factor driving tourism growth. By leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve urban living and reduce environmental impact, the city is positioning itself as a forward-thinking destination that meets the needs of modern travelers.
Global Travel Trends Shaping the Future of Tourism
Globally, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projects a robust recovery for the travel sector. In 2024, the travel and tourism industry is expected to contribute a staggering USD 11.1 trillion to the global economy, supporting 348 million jobs worldwide. Over the next decade, the sector is predicted to employ 449 million people globally, emphasizing its crucial role in economic development.
The continued recovery of the travel industry is driven by sustainability and connectivity—two themes that are set to dominate the discussions at ATM 2025. Industry experts predict that sustainable travel practices, coupled with enhanced global collaboration, will be critical in shaping the sector’s trajectory in the coming years.
Sustainability at the Forefront of ATM 2025
Sustainability remains one of the core topics at ATM 2025, reflecting the global shift towards more responsible tourism practices. With travelers increasingly seeking eco-friendly options, the travel industry is under pressure to adopt green technologies and embrace environmentally conscious solutions. At the event, global tourism leaders will showcase the latest innovations aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of travel, from sustainable accommodation options to renewable energy-powered destinations.
ATM 2025 will also explore the role of smart cities in promoting sustainable tourism, with a particular focus on Dubai’s innovations in this area. As a leading smart city, Dubai has made significant strides in incorporating technology to create a more sustainable urban environment—from smart transportation systems to energy-efficient buildings.
Connectivity Driving Economic Growth
The theme of connectivity is not just limited to tourism but also extends to economic development. At ATM 2025, key stakeholders will explore how improved connectivity across regions, industries, and infrastructure can drive global economic growth. The event will highlight the importance of airline partnerships, regional alliances, and technology in creating seamless travel experiences that cater to the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.
Airline connectivity will play a central role in these discussions, with Emirates, the Official Airline Partner of ATM 2025, leading the conversation on how airlines can adapt to changing traveler expectations and deliver enhanced experiences.
ATM 2025: A Gateway to Global Collaboration
As the largest travel and tourism event in the Middle East, ATM 2025 is expected to attract over 47,000 participants from 161 countries, building on the success of the 2024 edition. With a robust conference programme, the event will feature speakers and panels on global and future stages, offering insights into the latest trends and challenges facing the industry.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with leaders from airlines, hotels, technology providers, and tour operators, forging valuable connections that will drive the future of travel.
Strategic Partnerships Powering ATM 2025
ATM 2025’s success is underpinned by strong strategic partnerships, which include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as the Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner, and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner. These partnerships reflect the collaborative spirit that is central to the event’s mission to shape the future of global tourism.
Conclusion
ATM 2025 will serve as a critical platform for the global travel and tourism industry to explore the future of tourism through the lens of connectivity, sustainability, and collaboration. With Dubai’s remarkable tourism growth and its strategic position as a global hub, the city is set to lead the way in defining the next chapter of travel.
