Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 welcomed over 55,000 travel and tourism professionals from 166 countries, marking a 16% rise compared to last year.
Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1, the event featured more than 2,800 exhibitors—19% from the Middle East and 81% international. Organised by RX Global, this year’s theme, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” highlighted the role of cross-border and cross-sector collaboration in shaping future tourism.
High-profile attendance and industry participation
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the exhibition, where he was briefed on key themes and innovations.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum officially inaugurated the event, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also toured the show floor.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “My colleagues at RX Global and I are proud to have welcomed a vibrant and engaged community of travel professionals to ATM 2025… 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.”
Technology, hotels, and global representation
ATM Travel Tech grew by over 26%, featuring 21 innovative start-ups and immersive VR experiences. The hotel segment rose 12% year-on-year, with all major international chains represented.
The conference hosted over 70 sessions with more than 200 speakers. Asia led exhibitor growth at 20%, followed by Africa (21%), the Middle East (19%), and Europe (17%).
Key international markets outside the GCC included India (6%), Türkiye (3.2%), and the UK (3%). IBTM@ATM, a new addition focused on business events, debuted with insights from global organisations like ICCA, GBTA, and the World Energy Council.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com