RX Global, the organizers of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, hosted a press conference today in conjunction with the event’s strategic partners: the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel. This event took place at voco Dubai by IHG, where plans for the upcoming edition were revealed, scheduled for next week, from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Bringing together industry leaders and innovators
ATM serves as a pivotal gathering point for professionals and leaders across diverse travel sectors, including leisure, business events (MICE), luxury, and corporate travel. It is where entrepreneurs and industry leaders from high-growth and emerging markets across MENA, Asia, and Africa converge with counterparts from the world’s most established markets to foster innovation, investment, and collaboration.
With a $2.5 billion in industry deals secured, this event provides participants with the opportunity to forge global networks while discovering emerging innovations within the travel and tourism ecosystem.
ATM 2025 will feature over 2,800 exhibiting companies, with 17 percent hailing from the Middle East and 83 percent from other parts of the globe. The event is expected to welcome 55,000 attendees from 161 countries. Notably, it has achieved a remarkable near 12 percent year-on-year increase in exhibitor participation, making it the largest edition to date, now spanning 14 halls.
Exploring the theme of enhanced connectivity
The 32nd edition of ATM will revolve around the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” This theme will explore how connectivity across borders, industries, and communities will shape the future of tourism. It will resonate across all show verticals, from the ATM Conference program and ATM Travel Tech to exclusive networking events and the diverse portfolio of global exhibitors.
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director for the Middle East at Arabian Travel Market, stated: “Connectivity is increasingly recognized as the driving force behind the future of travel and tourism. As the world connects, tourism evolves, and collaboration among key stakeholders—including governments, airlines, travel agencies, hospitality leaders, and local communities—has become essential for fostering a thriving, sustainable industry.”
Anticipated growth from key regions
This year’s show is poised for notable growth in participation from key regions. Asia, recognized as the fastest-growing region at ATM, is projected to see a 20 percent year-on-year increase in exhibitors. The Middle East has experienced an increase of over 15 percent, Europe has risen by over 12 percent, and Africa and the Americas are steadily growing, reflecting the rising demand across the global tourism landscape. Enhanced regional connectivity and stronger ties with international markets are instrumental in this growth.
Read more: ATM 2025: Qatar Airways to launch Arabic-speaking AI cabin crew “Sama”
Dubai: The hub of connectivity and innovation
Surrounded by the world’s fastest-growing travel markets, Dubai stands as the ideal location to explore the power of connectivity. Renowned for its leading aviation sector, vast array of attractions, and favorable business environment, Dubai serves as a global nexus for industry leaders to collaborate, innovate, and unlock new opportunities in travel and tourism.
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), remarked: “Dubai is proud to continue its long-term strategic collaboration with the internationally renowned Arabian Travel Market (ATM) as its host destination, emphasizing our commitment to advancing Dubai’s standing as a leading global city for business and leisure, a goal central to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The success of Dubai’s tourism sector showcases visionary leadership and the strength of longstanding public-private partnerships—models that continue to drive us forward. Major events like ATM are crucial to our tourism strategy as we seek to redefine traditional tourism pathways by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and new economic opportunities. This year’s ATM theme aligns with our vision for sustainable growth, reflecting our physical connectivity and the digital and human interactions that fuel progress in our industry.”
Engaging stakeholders and buyers
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism will be joined by more than 125 stakeholders at ATM 2025, showcasing our dynamic ecosystem and the collaborative spirit that characterizes our city’s approach to tourism. Through our robust Hosted Buyers Program, we will welcome over 300 buyers from 39 countries to experience Dubai’s unparalleled hospitality firsthand. Together, we look forward to engaging with global leaders and industry experts, exchanging insights, exploring transformative trends, and forming new partnerships that will shape the future of travel and tourism.
Adnan Kazim, deputy president and chief commercial officer of Emirates, stated: “ATM’s theme this year, ‘Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,’ resonates profoundly with Emirates’ growth strategy. Since the last edition of ATM, the Emirates story has gained remarkable momentum, showcasing how a robust business model and the right strategy can propel us forward. We’re preparing for a busy and productive four days at ATM and look forward to networking, conducting business, meeting with our partners, and forging new relationships.”
Moreover, new features at ATM this year include IBTM@ATM, a specialized zone for business events suppliers to showcase their offerings and connect with international buyers through prescheduled appointments and business exchange sessions. As part of IBTM@ATM, a new Business Events Stage will be introduced, where industry experts will discuss strategies for growth in business events and corporate travel.
Start-up and innovation zone
ATM Travel Tech has expanded significantly, with over 26 percent more products showcased, reflecting the travel industry’s full convergence with technology and innovation. This section will also house a new Start-Up and Innovation zone, dedicated to exploring the travel industry’s evolution into a tech-driven sector and its growing role as a catalyst for innovation. This zone will showcase the next wave of travel pioneers and feature an immersive VR experience, providing visitors with fresh perspectives on the possibilities within the industry.
Haitham Mattar, managing director of IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed: “We are honored to continue our longstanding partnership with Arabian Travel Market—a cornerstone event that exemplifies the strength of the travel and hospitality sector in the Middle East. With a legacy in the region spanning over six decades, we remain committed to shaping the future of hospitality by introducing new brands and hotels in high-demand areas, enhancing guest experiences, and growing responsibly. This year’s ATM theme of ‘connectivity’ aligns seamlessly with IHG’s ambitions—not only in enhancing travel experiences but also in deepening the digital and human connections that truly define memorable guest journeys and unlock the full potential of travel.”
Insightful conference sessions and networking opportunities
Across three main stages—the Global Stage, Future Stage, and Business Events Stage—attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from over 200 high-profile speakers across more than 70 conference sessions. The conference program will cover a variety of topics, including the future of aviation, hospitality trends, climate action initiatives, and the adoption of artificial intelligence across the industry.
Mohamed Al Rais, executive director of Al Rais Travel, noted: “At Al Rais Travel, we are proud to play a leading role in connecting global travelers with the rich experiences of our region. As the Official DMC Partner of ATM 2025, this year’s theme—‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’—perfectly reflects the industry’s direction. Stronger partnerships and smarter integration are key to building a resilient, innovative, and future-ready tourism sector.”
Aligned with Arabian Travel Market’s vision, we bring over four decades of expertise in bridging cultures and delivering seamless, personalized travel solutions. Our presence at ATM underscores our commitment to innovation and collaboration. We’re particularly excited about IBTM@ATM, a new platform linking business event suppliers with global buyers.
Together with industry leaders, Al Rais is not just facilitating travel—we’re building lasting connections, driving business tourism, and shaping tomorrow’s journeys. With us, the world comes closer, one experience at a time.
Looking ahead to a vibrant future
Jonathan Heastie, portfolio director – Travel Sector at RX Global, concluded: “We’re thrilled with the event’s growth this year and expect it will bring even more of the vibrant energy people have come to associate with the ATM experience. As a fast-moving, cosmopolitan crossroads connecting high-growth tourism regions with world-class infrastructure and innovation, we’re excited to witness the next chapter of the global travel story as it unfolds next week.”
Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025’s strategic partners include the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as Destination Partner; Emirates as Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts as Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel as Official DMC Partner.
