The 30th edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East, has kicked off with a strong focus on technology. The event, which is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, has seen a 54.7% increase in sector participation compared to the previous year, indicating a strong interest in the travel industry in the region.
The focus on technology is a response to the growing demand for innovation and digital transformation in the travel industry. This year’s ATM is showcasing the latest advancements in technology for the travel industry, from virtual reality experiences to artificial intelligence-powered chatbots.
The event is also serving as a platform for industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the travel industry in the region. One of the key topics of discussion is the need for collaboration and partnerships to drive growth in the industry. The pandemic has had a significant impact on the travel industry, and many companies have been forced to adapt and innovate to survive.
Speaking at the event, Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Tourism, said, “The Arabian Travel Market is a key event in the global travel industry calendar, and this year’s edition is particularly important as we look to the future of travel and tourism in the region. The pandemic has had a significant impact on the industry, but it has also presented new opportunities for innovation and growth.”
One of the highlights of this year’s event is the Travel Forward at ATM conference, which is focused on the future of travel technology. The conference is exploring the latest advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital marketing, and how these technologies can be used to create more personalized and efficient travel experiences.
Another key feature of the event is the Travel Tech Show, which is showcasing the latest travel technology solutions from around the world. This includes everything from mobile apps to booking engines and payment systems. The show is providing an opportunity for industry professionals to learn about the latest trends and innovations in the travel technology space. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with like-minded peers, explore new business opportunities and discover how these technologies can help them succeed in their business. It is sure to be an informative and exciting event for those interested in travel technology.
The event is also providing a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services to a global audience. More than 1,300 exhibitors from over 60 countries are participating in this year’s ATM, including hotels, airlines, travel agencies, and technology providers. Additionally, more than 350 speakers and thought leaders from the travel industry are scheduled to present at the event. With an anticipated attendance of over 35,000 visitors, ATM is set to be one of the biggest events in the Middle East this year.
The increased sector participation is a testament to the growing importance of the travel industry in the region. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the travel and tourism industry is expected to contribute over $550 billion to the Middle East’s GDP by 2029, supporting over 6 million jobs.
In conclusion, the 30th edition of the Arabian Travel Market is an important event for the travel industry in the region. The focus on technology and innovation highlights the need for businesses to adapt and transform to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry. With a strong lineup of exhibitors and speakers, this year’s ATM is providing a valuable platform for industry professionals to come together, share ideas, and drive growth in the travel industry.
