Arabian Travel Market 2025 sees record 55,000+ visitors, up 16%

Dubai welcomed more than 55,000 travel professionals from 166 countries at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), marking a 16% increase in attendance compared to 2024. The annual event, held at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1, continues to serve as a major barometer for the health and direction of the global travel and tourism industry.

Organised by RX Global, ATM 2025 hosted over 2,800 exhibitors. International presence remained dominant, with 81% of participants coming from outside the Middle East. The theme this year, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow's Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” focused on the role of cross-border collaboration in shaping the future of tourism.

Growth was visible across all major verticals. Regional participation saw year-on-year gains in the Middle East (19%), Asia (20%), Europe (17%), and Africa (21%). Asia posted the strongest growth, driven by improved regional connectivity and renewed engagement with international markets.

Tech, hotel growth

Technology had a prominent showing. The ATM Travel Tech segment expanded by over 26%, hosting more than 100 companies, with a new Start-Up and Innovation Zone spotlighting 21 emerging ventures. Attendees also engaged with immersive VR exhibits offering glimpses into the future of travel.

The hotel sector reported a 12% year-on-year growth in exhibitor participation, with all major international chains in attendance. Meanwhile, the newly launched IBTM@ATM zone focused on the business events segment, featuring insights from major organisations including ICCA, GBTA, and the World Energy Council.

In addition to strong industry participation, the event also drew attention from top UAE leaders. Among the dignitaries were His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, both of whom toured the show floor to view this year’s highlights and innovations.

Top source markets outside the UAE and GCC included India, Türkiye, the UK, Egypt, the US, and China.

This year’s edition featured over 70 sessions with more than 200 speakers sharing insights across several dedicated conference stages, covering topics ranging from future tourism trends to sustainable growth and digital transformation.