The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and esteemed partners including Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel, promises an unparalleled showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship in the travel and tourism industry. Scheduled from Monday, May 6, to Thursday, May 9, 2024, at the prestigious Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), this event stands as a beacon of progress and possibility in the realm of travel.
A Brief Overview
Despite the unfortunate cancellation of the official ATM press conference due to adverse weather conditions, the organizers and partners have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the event and its myriad opportunities. The 31st edition of ATM is poised to welcome over 2,300 exhibitors and representatives from more than 165 countries, with an impressive 41,000 attendees anticipated under the theme ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’.
Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship
ATM 2024 serves as a melting pot of ideas, bringing together startups, established brands, and industry pioneers to explore how innovation can enhance customer experiences, drive efficiencies, and propel the industry towards a net-zero future. The event’s comprehensive agenda, spread across two stages – the Global Stage and the new Future Stage – will feature key industry speakers from around the world, addressing emerging trends and transformative technologies shaping the future of travel and tourism.
Spotlight on Entrepreneurship
One of the most anticipated additions to ATM 2024 is the Entrepreneurship-focused summit, which will shine a spotlight on the pivotal role of travel startups in the Middle East economy. This summit will delve into their pioneering approaches, celebrating their contributions to industry innovation. Moreover, the ATM Start-Up Pitch Battle, in partnership with Emirates Group’s Intelak, will provide a platform for innovators to showcase their industry solutions, highlighting the immense potential for entrepreneurship in the region.
Expanding Horizons: New Destinations and Verticals
ATM 2024 is set to introduce several new destinations, including China, Macao, Kenya, Guatemala, and Colombia, offering attendees fresh insights into emerging markets and travel trends. Furthermore, the event will witness a significant increase in participating hotel brands, reflecting a 21% year-on-year growth, along with a 58% rise in new Travel Technology products showcased.
Regional Focus: India Summit
A dedicated India Summit will kick off the proceedings, focusing on the recent outbound travel boom from the Indian market. Titled ‘Unlocking the True Potential of Inbound Indian Travellers,’ the summit will delve into India’s significance as a key source market for tourism growth, exploring current trends and future opportunities.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Growth
The support of strategic partners such as the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel underscores the collaborative efforts driving the success of ATM 2024. These partnerships not only enhance the event’s reach but also contribute to the overarching goal of fostering innovation and sustainable growth within the travel industry.
Environmental Responsibility: A Core Focus
Building on the momentum of last year’s theme, ‘Working Towards Net Zero’, ATM 2024 remains committed to advancing environmental responsibility within the travel and tourism sector. With a focus on leveraging innovation to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the event aims to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Testimonials from Industry Leaders
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), emphasized Dubai’s strategic partnership with ATM, aligning with the city’s long-term economic agenda and commitment to innovation in tourism.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, expressed pride in the growth of ATM and its significance on the global stage, highlighting Emirates’ role in supporting the event and showcasing sustainable aviation practices.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts for SWA, Middle East and Africa, reiterated the group’s commitment to showcasing its diverse portfolio and enabling the region’s growth ambitions in the tourism sector.
Mohamed Al Rais, Executive Director of Al Rais Travel, celebrated the fusion of innovation and entrepreneurship at ATM 2024, affirming the event’s role in shaping the future of travel.
Conclusion
As the countdown to Arabian Travel Market 2024 begins, anticipation mounts for an event that promises to redefine the landscape of travel and tourism. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, ATM 2024 stands as a testament to the industry’s resilience and capacity for transformation. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we chart new territories and shape a world where adventure knows no bounds.
