The luxury travel industry is experiencing an unprecedented surge, projected to skyrocket to $391 billion by 2028. Driving this remarkable growth are the world’s elite high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and an emerging class of affluent travellers seeking exclusive, tailor-made experiences. The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, scheduled from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is the most pivotal event for luxury tourism stakeholders worldwide.
The global travel show will feature an impressive lineup of top-tier hospitality brands, influential industry leaders, and sought-after travel destinations, unveiling insights shaping the future of luxury tourism.
Asia-Pacific Dominates as the Key Luxury Travel Source Market
Industry research from McKinsey & Company affirms that the demand for high-end tourism and hospitality is growing at an extraordinary pace, outstripping all other travel segments. Asia is emerging as a dominant force in luxury tourism, accounting for 38% of international visitors to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2023, according to the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf. The Middle East followed with 25.1%, Europe contributed 22.9%, Africa 8.8%, and the Americas 4.3%.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director – ME – ATM
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME for Arabian Travel Market, emphasized Asia’s increasing impact on Middle Eastern tourism.
“The surge in inbound tourism from Asia, paired with the region’s growing wealth, presents unparalleled opportunities for the Middle East’s luxury sector. ATM has seen a 27% rise in exhibitors from Asia this year, with national tourism organizations from Japan, Maldives, South Korea, India, and Thailand reinforcing their presence.”
Regional tourism boards from destinations such as Rajasthan, Goa, Phuket, Hong Kong, and Jakarta enhance Asia’s presence at ATM 2025, solidifying the region’s luxury travel dominance.
GCC’s Luxury Travel Boom: A Destination for the World’s Wealthiest
The GCC has positioned itself as a luxury travel powerhouse, catering to high-net-worth travellers seeking world-class hotels and elite experiences. Forecasts indicate that GCC nations will add over 400,000 hotel rooms by 2030, following the successful addition of 35,000 rooms in the past decade.
ATM 2025 will feature the world’s most renowned luxury destinations, including the Maldives, Mauritius, and Peru. Peru will make a highly anticipated return after ten years and showcase its opulent travel offerings, from luxury Amazon cruises and glamping in the Ica Desert to breathtaking train journeys across the Andes.
Among the prestigious hospitality giants appearing at ATM 2025 are Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah International, One&Only, Kempinski Hotels, The Address Hotels & Resorts, and The Leading Hotels of the World. These brands continue to redefine luxury travel with a heightened focus on cultural, artistic, and adventure-driven experiences.
Sustainability & Connectivity: The Future of Luxury Travel
Modern luxury travellers are no longer content with opulence; they demand sustainability and exclusivity. Hotels in the GCC and beyond are adapting to this paradigm shift by integrating eco-friendly initiatives and personalized experiences into their offerings. Sustainable luxury is a core focus at ATM 2025, aligning with the theme: “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.”
ATM Luxury Travel Show floor 2024
Enhanced accessibility is another game-changer in the high-end travel sector. Emerging destinations are reaping the benefits of improved air connectivity, boutique hotel developments, and eco-resort expansions. This evolution enables a more seamless and environmentally responsible approach to elite tourism.
The Middle East: A Global Leader in Luxury Outbound Travel
Mastercard’s Affluent Travel Report underscores the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) as the world’s leading market for luxury outbound travel. Saudi Arabia and the UAE stand out as top source markets, with GCC travellers consistently ranking among the highest spenders globally. Kuwaiti travellers in Paris outspend American tourists by a staggering factor of five, reinforcing the region’s dominance in premium travel expenditures.
Danielle Curtis further commented on the significance of this trend:
“The MENA region is setting new benchmarks in high-end outbound tourism. ATM 2025 will provide invaluable insights, networking opportunities, and exposure to the industry’s most sought-after destinations. For businesses looking to tap into this lucrative segment, ATM is an essential platform.”
ATM 2025: A Must-Attend Event for Luxury Travel Professionals
The Arabian Travel Market has long been the premier global stage for the Middle East’s inbound and outbound travel industry. This year, ATM is expected to welcome over 47,000 attendees and facilitate business deals exceeding $2.5 billion.
ATM’s conference program will feature elite panel discussions with leading hospitality executives and luxury travel experts. Key sessions include:
- “Generational Trends Influencing Hyper-Personalization in Luxury” – Led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Fairmont, and Minor Hotels.
- “Retaining High-Net-Worth Travelers by Redesigning Their Experience” – Featuring industry heavyweights from Kempinski, Banyan Tree Holdings, GSIQ, and Matter of Form.
ATM 2025’s strategic partnerships include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as a Destination Partner, Emirates as the Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as the Official Hotel Partner, and Al Rais Travel as the Official DMC Partner.
Final Thoughts: The Future of High-End Travel Begins at ATM 2025
As luxury tourism continues its meteoric rise, the Arabian Travel Market stands at the forefront, shaping the industry’s future. With groundbreaking insights, networking opportunities, and an unrivalled lineup of exhibitors, ATM 2025 is an unmissable event for those looking to navigate and capitalize on the world’s most lucrative travel segment.
For more details, visit Arabian Travel Market.
Written by: Sandra Jones
