Ahmed Bin Saeed Opens Arabian Travel Market 2025, Highlighting Global Tourism Innovations
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum inaugurated the 32nd Arabian Travel Market (ATM) at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This global travel and tourism event, running from 28 April to 1 May, attracts professionals from leisure, business events, luxury, and corporate travel sectors. With 2,800 exhibitors from 161 countries, it anticipates welcoming 55,000 attendees.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted Dubai's status as a global tourism hub during the opening. He stated that the strong participation underscores Dubai's role in shaping global tourism's future. "Guided by the vision of our leadership, Dubai continues to consolidate its position as a leading global destination for tourism," he said.
The event reflects Dubai's growing influence in tourism and hospitality. H.H. Sheikh Ahmed noted that ATM's success highlights Dubai’s pivotal role in forming strategic partnerships that drive global tourism growth. The emirate aims to be among the top three cities for business and specialised tourism by 2033.
Following the inauguration, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed toured the exhibition halls with key officials like Helal Saeed Almarri and Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid. They reviewed highlights of ATM 2025, noting a significant rise in international exhibitor participation: 20% from Asia, 15% from the Middle East, and over 12% from Europe.
This year’s theme is ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’. It emphasises cross-border collaboration and sustainable practices in reshaping tourism's future. New features include IBTM@ATM for business events suppliers to connect with buyers through pre-scheduled appointments.
ATM Travel Tech has expanded by over 26%, showcasing technology integration in travel. A new Start-Up and Innovation Zone presents 21 companies transforming travel with innovative solutions and immersive VR experiences for visitors.
Conference Highlights and Key Sessions
The ATM Conference returns with over 200 speakers across various stages discussing emerging trends and best practices. Cassie Kozyrkov led an opening session on AI adoption in travel on day one. The second day features a Ministerial Session exploring tourism growth through enhanced connectivity.
On day three, Paul Griffiths will discuss aviation's future amid global disruption at the Global Stage. The Business Events Stage will share insights from the IBTM World Trends Report. The final day includes market insights on Asia Pacific and India’s growing tourism sector.
Arabian Travel Week: A Festival of Opportunities
The closing day also features the ATM Start-Up Competition for entrepreneurs to pitch ideas redefining travel's future. Part of Arabian Travel Week, this festival facilitates industry deals worth over USD2.5 billion annually while advancing Middle East tourism.
Organised with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025 partners include Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism as Destination Partner; Emirates as Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts as Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel as Official DMC Partner.
With inputs from WAM
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