Arabian Travel Market 2025 will highlight the power of connectivity

The event hopes to shape the future of tourism with the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.”

In light of the unprecedented growth within the global travel and tourism sector, ATM 2025 is set to play a pivotal role in shaping its future. Bringing together professionals and industry leaders from the leisure, MICE, luxury and corporate travel sectors, ATM provides a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business opportunities, allowing participants to explore the latest trends, innovations, and developments worldwide.

Commenting on the theme for ATM 2025, Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “Connectivity extends beyond technology. It also involves creating communities that serve as important centres for trade and tourism. By working together and embracing innovation and better connectivity, ATM is paving the way for the future of travel. This ensures that tourism in the coming years is more sustainable, inclusive, and closely linked with global economic growth."

In July 2024, the Dubai Media Office (DMO) reported that the city had welcomed a record 9.31 million international overnight visitors in the first half of 2024. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this figure represents a 9% increase from the same period in 2023.

Dubai’s tourism growth is driven by several key government strategies, including the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city as one of the world’s top urban economies and a global destination for business and leisure. Core to the Agenda is the ambitious goal of doubling the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade and creating a globally competitive business environment by reducing costs and increasing foreign investment.

In addition, the UAE is at the forefront of smart city development, using technology to enhance urban living while minimising environmental impact.

The growth in visitors can also be attributed to Dubai's continued appeal as a global travel destination, driven by its world-class attractions, renowned hospitality industry and its track record for building global collaborative partnerships. This influx of visitors confirms Dubai's status as a premier tourism hub and contributes significantly to the city's economic development and international standing.

On a global level, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) predicts a record year of travel and tourism, with an economic contribution of USD$11.1 trillion. According to the WTTC, this represents 348 million jobs globally, and the sector is predicted to employ 449 million people globally in the next decade.

Curtis added: “These figures underscore the increasing economic influence of travel and tourism and signify strong industry recovery and growth. In the coming years, connectivity, global collaboration and the increase in sustainable travel practices are expected to shape the industry's trajectory. Topics that will be high on the agenda at ATM 2025.”