Global Leisure Travel Spending Set To Skyrocket To $15 Trillion By 2040: ATM Insights Reveal

Global leisure travel spending is expected to soar to $15 trillion by 2040, up from $5 trillion in 2024. The Middle East is projected to experience a 7% annual rise in leisure spending, outperforming all markets except Asia Pacific over the next five years. Industry stakeholders will explore these opportunities at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, scheduled for 4-7 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The ATM Travel Trends Report, in collaboration with Tourism Economics, anticipates international tourism nights in the Middle East will hit 1.5 billion by 2030, a 90% increase from 2024. Approximately 15% of these nights are expected to be among leisure travellers from outside the region. European markets currently account for 50% of leisure travel to the Middle East, but African and Asia Pacific markets are expected to grow faster in the next five years.

Leisure travel will be a significant focus at ATM 2026, highlighting the evolving behaviours of global leisure travellers and the Middle East's growing appeal as a top destination for international tourists. The event will explore factors and trends redefining the global travel landscape under the theme 'Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology'.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, stated, "By 2030, there are expected to be nearly 30 billion tourism nights globally, with the Middle East accounting for around 8% of tourism nights. During the same period, leisure nights in the region are expected to grow by 87%, reflecting the region's rapid infrastructure development, and its expanding experiential and cultural offerings. ATM 2026 will bring together the destinations, attractions, brands and innovators shaping this $15 trillion opportunity."

ATM 2026 will offer a platform for over 2,600 exhibitors from 161 countries and more than 47,000 attendees to harness the growing demand in the leisure segment. The event will provide a comprehensive platform for the travel industry to leverage this rising demand.

Middle East leisure tourism continues to thrive with popular activities such as beach holidays, city breaks, and nature adventures. Additionally, there's increasing interest in sports tourism, cultural travel, and health and wellness vacations. Millennials and Gen Z are planning more trips and embracing digital tourism innovations, with multigenerational and solo travel now mainstream pursuits. Half of the surveyed industry experts identified leisure events as the top opportunity for tourism growth.

"Leisure tourism can no longer be defined by a single demographic or travel style. Today's travellers are seeking authentic, personalised experiences that reflect their values," added Curtis. "For this reason, the Middle East is ideally positioned to play a defining role in the coming era of global tourism, and we look forward to welcoming the international travel industry to Dubai in May to explore related opportunities together."

Aside from leisure travel, ATM 2026 will spotlight a broad spectrum of industry trends, innovations, and opportunities. Focusing on the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA) for both inbound and outbound travel, the 33rd edition will reinforce Dubai's position as a global gateway, connecting over 240 destinations across six continents.

The event will showcase how the industry is evolving to cater to new traveller segments through features like the ATM Ultra Luxury Lounge, IBTM @ ATM, and co-located event, ATM Travel Tech. These features will demonstrate how destinations, buyers, and brands are shaping the future of global travel.

ATM 2026 will serve as a meeting point for industry professionals to explore and engage with these emerging trends and opportunities. With a focus on innovation and technology, the event will be pivotal in connecting key players in the global travel landscape. This will foster collaboration and growth in the sector, ensuring the Middle East remains a vital part of the evolving travel industry.