The 31st edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) concluded its remarkable 2024 event in Dubai, setting an unprecedented show record with over 46,000 industry professionals from more than 160 countries. The event marked a 15% increase in attendance compared to its 30th-anniversary edition, underscoring the travel and tourism industry’s momentum and resilience.
Held 6 to 9 May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the four-day event attracted over 33,000 visitors—a significant 11% rise from last year. The attendance spike reflected the enthusiasm of travel professionals eager to explore innovative solutions under this year’s theme: “Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship.”
ATM 2024 Exhibition Floor.
Innovation Takes Center Stage
This year’s ATM was a melting pot for the travel and tourism industry, with more than 2,600 exhibitors representing various sectors worldwide. They assembled to discuss emerging industry drivers and identify future opportunities in global tourism, all while networking and sharing valuable insights.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at Arabian Travel Market, expressed her excitement about the event’s success, stating, “My colleagues and I are delighted that so many industry professionals from around the world joined us in Dubai to explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping a more efficient, profitable, and sustainable tourism sector for future generations. We are thrilled to have set a new show record, underscoring our position as the travel and tourism exhibition of choice as we continue to drive global growth within the industry.”
Visionary Leadership and Policy Initiatives
The event garnered significant attention from regional leaders, including His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who chaired a meeting of The Executive Council during the event. The meeting led to the approval of several major transportation and tourism projects, aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Regional Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships
Arabian Travel Market 2024 – Exhibition Floor
The opening session highlighted Gulf nations’ collaborative efforts in streamlining GCC tourism. The panel, following the inaugural remarks by H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, featured policymakers including:
- H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority
- H.E. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority
- H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism
- H.E. Sarah Buhijji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority
Their insights reinforced the region’s commitment to fostering tourism growth through strategic partnerships and streamlined offerings.
Unveiling Market Potential and Trends
In the session “Unlocking the True Potential of Indian Travellers,” Virendra Jain, CEO and Co-Founder of VIDEC, a travel and hospitality advisory and analytics firm, revealed crucial insights into the Indian outbound travel market. Jain’s analysis encompassed market opportunity assessments, distribution analysis, and behavioural trends of Indian travellers. His projections shed light on the immense potential of India’s outbound travel market over the next decade.
Disruptive Technology in Aviation
ATM 2024 – Foyer
Aviation professionals highlighted the industry’s future in the panel “Looking Skyward for Innovation: How Technology is Disrupting Aviation.” Mark Frary moderated the discussion, featuring insights from Cirium, IATA, AviationXLab, and Riyadh Air. The session emphasized the crucial role of innovation in managing increased air traffic efficiently.
Innovation-Focused Competitions and Awards
InterLnkd won the prestigious third ATM Start-up Pitch Battle, held in association with Intelak. The UK-based company impressed judges with its data-driven platform that links travel and hospitality to the fashion, beauty, and retail industries.
The event also celebrated the creativity of exhibitors. Experience Abu Dhabi won the Best Stand Design Award (over 150m²) for its flowing structure and strategic use of greenery. AlUla, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, ExploreTECH, flydubai, Qiddiya Investment Company, and the Saudi Tourism Authority also received honours for their outstanding exhibition spaces.
Strategic Partners and Forward-Looking Agenda
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Emirates, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Al Rais Travel served as the event’s Destination, Official Airline, Official Hotel, and Official DMC partners, respectively. Their involvement reflected the collaborative efforts necessary to host such a landmark event.
Mark Your Calendar for ATM 2025
Building on the success of this year’s event, Arabian Travel Market 2025 will take place from 28 April to 1 May 2025. The next edition offers even more insightful discussions and networking opportunities as the travel and tourism industry evolves.
Written by: Yves Thomas
