The global event drew over 55,000 travel and tourism professionals from 166 countries, marking a 16% year-on-year increase in attendance and cementing Dubai’s role as a key hub for shaping the future of global tourism.
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 concluded on a high note at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), setting new benchmarks for participation and industry impact. The global event drew over 55,000 travel and tourism professionals from 166 countries, marking a 16% year-on-year increase in attendance and cementing Dubai’s role as a key hub for shaping the future of global tourism.
Held from 28 April to 1 May, ATM 2025 was organised by RX Global under the theme “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.” This year’s focus highlighted how cross-border, cross-sectoral and community-wide collaborations are essential to building inclusive and resilient tourism economies.
Mohammed’s Vision for Global Tourism Leadership
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, toured the exhibition floor, where he reiterated the UAE’s commitment to fostering inclusive global growth through tourism and connectivity. He described exhibitions like ATM as strategic drivers of economic progress and innovation.
“Our participation reflects the UAE’s vision of promoting dialogue, forming authentic partnerships, and expanding shared prosperity,” Sheikh Mohammed said during his visit. “We are investing in world-class infrastructure that will welcome 150 million passengers this year and transform the UAE into a leading global destination.”
The ruler highlighted the record 30.7 million international visitors welcomed by the UAE in 2024, with tourism-related spending reaching AED 250 billion—an indicator of the nation’s expanding presence on the global tourism map.
Record Numbers, Global Footprint
ATM 2025 hosted more than 2,800 exhibiting companies, with 19% hailing from the Middle East and the remaining 81% representing markets from across the globe. Regional growth was evident across all verticals: the Middle East (19% increase), Asia (20%), Europe (17%), and Africa (21%). Asia stood out as the fastest-growing region, fuelled by deeper connectivity and stronger market linkages.
Outside the GCC, India led international participation with 6% of total attendees, followed by Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Egypt, the United States, China, Sri Lanka, Spain, Maldives, and Pakistan.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at RX Global, described the record turnout as a strong indicator of ATM’s increasing global relevance. “This year’s theme resonated deeply across the show floor. It’s clear that cross-border and cross-sector collaboration is driving inclusive tourism growth,” she said.
Innovation, Sustainability, and Tech at Forefront
Technology and sustainability featured prominently at ATM 2025. The ATM Travel Tech section saw 26% growth, showcasing the sector’s increasing reliance on digital innovation. A dedicated Start-Up and Innovation Zone featured 21 emerging companies offering disruptive solutions, including immersive VR experiences for travel and hospitality.
The hotel sector also recorded a 12% year-on-year increase in participation, with all major international brands represented. The ATM Conference hosted more than 200 global speakers across 70 sessions, covering trends from luxury travel and business events to sustainability and smart tourism.
The newly launched IBTM@ATM event brought together global business event professionals, with insights shared by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), and the World Energy Council.
Royal Visits Spotlight Aviation and Tourism Strategy
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, as well as other senior dignitaries including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Emirates Airline Group, attended the event and visited key pavilions.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid toured the Emirates and flydubai pavilions, where he was briefed on their expansion plans. Flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith presented the airline’s recent performance, including record results in 2024—its most successful year since inception.
At the Emirates Tourism Council pavilion, Minister of Economy Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri shared updates on efforts to boost tourism competitiveness across all seven emirates as part of the “We the UAE 2031” national strategy.
ATM as a Catalyst for Economic Growth
As the four-day event wrapped up, the numbers spoke for themselves: record-breaking attendance, expanded exhibitor profiles, and broad international participation demonstrated ATM’s rising stature as a premier platform for global tourism development.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s visit underscored the strategic role exhibitions like ATM play in enabling economic transformation. “These platforms help build international partnerships that fuel innovation, create opportunity, and improve lives,” he said.
With its focus on connectivity, innovation, and inclusivity, ATM 2025 has not only highlighted Dubai’s growing influence in the global tourism landscape but has also laid a strong foundation for future growth, dialogue, and cooperation across the travel and hospitality sector.
