As the Middle East’s leading travel and tourism event returns from April 28th to May 1st at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Arabian Travel Market 2025 promises to redefine industry standards with innovation, sustainability, and enhanced connectivity
For over three decades, the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has been the ultimate gateway for the travel and tourism industry, consistently providing a platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth. In 2025, the Arabian Travel Market is back, and bigger and better than ever, with a renewed focus on unlocking potential across all travel sectors, from luxury and leisure to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
The 2024 Legacy of Arabian Travel Market
Last year, ATM put a strong focus on transforming travel through entrepreneurship, celebrating its 31st edition with record-breaking attendance, welcoming over 46,000 professionals from 160 countries, including 2,600 exhibitors and 33,500 visitors. Themed “Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship”, the event showcased how innovation drives resilience and growth in the travel industry.
There were several key milestones achieved during the groundbreaking gathering of like-minded individuals, including strategic partnerships, cutting-edge discussions, and insights into global travel trends. Exhibitors explored entrepreneurial solutions to industry challenges, while expert panels unveiled the next frontier of travel through technology and sustainable practices.
How our Clients Shone at Last Year’s ATM
At the Arabian Travel Market 2024, we proudly positioned a series of distinguished leaders on high-profile panels, sharing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of travel and hospitality. On the opening day, Basem Saudy from Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts joined a panel focused on the future of travel. Alongside leaders such as Haitham Mattar from IHG Hotels & Resorts, he explored emerging travel trends, the challenges facing the industry, and what to expect in the coming years.
During the conversation, he spoke of the importance of sustainability, luxury redefined through authenticity, and how wellness will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of hospitality. Additionally, we facilitated an exclusive Forbes Middle East interview with Basem, where he shared deeper insights into the luxury segment's evolution and strategies for staying competitive in a dynamic market.
Ali Ozbey from Rixos Hotels also brought his expertise to a panel discussing the evolution of customer loyalty programs. Speaking alongside global leaders, Ali emphasised the shifting dynamics of customer loyalty among Gen X and Millennials, showcasing how loyalty has moved beyond transactional rewards to fostering emotional connections with guests. He detailed how Rixos Hotels’ experience-driven rewards, including unique partnerships and family-oriented benefits, have redefined guest expectations and driven brand allegiance.
Similarly, Sophie Blondel, General Manager at The H Dubai, contributed to a thought-provoking discussion on diversity in the travel industry. Alongside industry leaders like Aradhana Khowala and Basmah Al-Mayman, Sophie highlighted the importance of inclusivity in creating innovation and trust within the sector. These sessions provided actionable insights and demonstrated how these industry leaders are shaping trends and setting benchmarks for the future of travel and hospitality.
Further, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts had a massive presence at last year’s event, with over 15 GMs from its global properties in attendance. Their President of Hotel Operations EMEA, Adrian Messerli, spoke at a panel on the main stage, where he discussed the future of the industry.
The Katch team worked behind the scenes and on the ground, supporting with media training and liaising with the events programming team to create a favourable panel discussion. During the event, Four Seasons' exemplary service culture, ideal portfolio of properties, and dynamic expansion plans in the GCC and beyond were highlighted, which included new properties in Madinah, Red Sea, Rabat and Mallorca.
Additionally, our team organised and hosted a media breakfast prior to ATM 2024 with the brand’s President and several key media in attendance, including Destinations of the World News, What’s On, and Al Bayan. Overall, the event campaign secured 80+ clippings, reaching an audience of more than 12M.
Arabian Travel Market 2025
At this year’s upcoming event, set to take place from April 28th to May 1st at the famed Dubai World Trade Centre, the spotlight is on “Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”. The theme emphasises the power of linking borders, industries, and communities to foster a more inclusive and sustainable travel ecosystem.
With an ever-expanding global network, ATM 2025 aims to catalyse growth by facilitating direct engagement with decision-makers, providing quality leads, and delivering measurable ROI for participants.
What to Expect at ATM 2025
Attendees to the 2025 edition of ATM can expect a unique platform to connect with industry leaders, innovators, and buyers with direct purchasing authority. Through pre-scheduled appointments and strategic matchmaking tools, participants can ensure productive meetings and partnerships that yield long-term benefits.
ATM is not just an event; it’s a stage for brands to shine. Exhibitors can leverage the platform’s reach to enhance their visibility, set themselves apart from competitors, and leave a lasting impression on a global audience. Visitors can also gain access to the latest industry research, trends, and innovations, allowing them to witness the future of the industry firsthand whilst rubbing shoulders with some of the top talents from around the region.
The event will encompass everything from expert panels to thought-provoking debates, with each session designed to inspire and educate, equipping participants with the tools to navigate the future of tourism effectively.
Pioneering Sustainability in Tourism and Events
Building on its initial 2023 sustainability pledge, ATM continues to lead the charge in reducing the industry’s environmental impact. Having conducted its first carbon footprint assessment in 2024, ATM remains committed to decarbonising the events sector, aligning with RX’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, and there will be a further spotlight shined on this at this year’s event.
This commitment includes ambitious goals such as a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and implementing strategies for waste reduction and sustainable operations.
A Gateway to Opportunity
The renowned Arabian Travel Market has consistently delivered unmatched business value, generating over $2.5 billion in deals in previous editions. Whether you’re a newcomer to the industry or an established player, ATM is the place to unlock global business potential and expand your network.
Mark your calendars for April 28th to May 1st, and get ready to connect, collaborate, and thrive as you discover endless opportunities in the world of travel and tourism. If you’re ready to shape the future of global tourism, then Arabian Travel Market 2025 is your chance to explore new markets, build lasting partnerships, and redefine what’s possible in travel.
For more details on Arabian Travel Market 2025, visit the website or follow them on Instagram @Arabian_Travel_Market to keep up to date.
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