The Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the premier global event for the travel and tourism industry, has attracted over 55,000 professionals from 166 countries, marking a notable 16 percent increase compared to last year’s edition. This event has highlighted more than 2,800 exhibiting companies, with 19 percent hailing from the Middle East and 81 percent from the rest of the globe.
The ATM 2025 was centred around the theme “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” delving into how the future of tourism will further be influenced by connectivity across borders, industries, and communities. This theme was a pivotal element throughout the event, which took place from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
High-profile attendance
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, visited the exhibition and received an overview of this year’s key themes and innovations.
Throughout the four-day event, several distinguished dignitaries and VIPs were present, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, who officially inaugurated the event. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, explored the show floor and was briefed on the highlights of the 2025 edition.
Strong community engagement
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME at Arabian Travel Market, stated: “My colleagues at RX Global and I are proud to have welcomed a vibrant and engaged community of travel professionals to ATM 2025. This year’s theme has resonated strongly throughout the show floor, emphasising how collaboration across borders and sectors creates new opportunities for inclusive and resilient tourism growth. The outstanding turnout and record-breaking number of exhibitors are clear indicators of ATM’s crucial role in shaping the future of global tourism and connectivity.”
Regional growth and participation
Moreover, growth has been evident across all show verticals, with regional year-on-year increases in several areas: the Middle East (19 percent), Asia (20 percent), Europe (17 percent), and Africa (21 percent). Notably, Asia stands out as the fastest-growing region at ATM 2025, with exhibitor participation soaring by an impressive 20 percent year-on-year. This growth has been driven by enhanced regional connectivity and strengthened ties with international markets.
Beyond the UAE and the broader GCC markets, the top ten registered international markets for ATM 2025 are as follows: India (6 percent), Türkiye (3.2 percent), United Kingdom (3 percent), Egypt (3 percent), United States (2 percent), China (1.5 percent), Sri Lanka (1 percent), Spain (1 percent), Maldives (1 percent), and Pakistan (1 percent).
Rise of ATM Travel Tech
Furthermore, ATM Travel Tech has expanded by over 26 percent this year, showcasing the sector’s growing integration with technology. A newly launched Start-Up and Innovation Zone presented 21 innovative companies redefining travel, accompanied by an immersive VR experience that allowed visitors to explore transformative solutions in the industry.
Hotel sector performance at ATM 2025
The hotel segment at ATM 2025 has witnessed a 12 percent year-on-year growth, with all major international hotel chains represented. The ATM Conference featured over 70 sessions and brought insights from more than 200 esteemed speakers on the Global Stage, Future Stage, and the new Business Events Stage, which is part of IBTM@ATM.
Launch of IBTM@ATM
Additionally, the IBTM@ATM event was officially inaugurated, establishing a dedicated zone for business event professionals. It featured insights from prestigious organisations such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), and the World Energy Council, in addition to contributions from tourism and event industry leaders from around the world.
