nextjourneys.com at Arabian Travel Market 2025

Arabian Travel Market 2025: Our First Experience at the Largest Tourism Fair in the Middle East

We’ve attended countless tourism fairs around the world: London, Madrid, Berlin, and of course Romania (Bucharest, Cluj, Craiova, Ploiești). We’ve even been to the USA several times and spent a day in Shanghai. But this was our first time in Dubai — and what an experience it was. A tourism fair like no other, with over 55,000 participants from 166 countries, a vibrant and crowded atmosphere, and conversations about what the future of travel looks like. One thing is clear: Dubai knows how to organize events, and ATM is truly the heart of the global tourism industry.

ATM 2025 took place from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, but the experience continued throughout Arabian Travel Week, until May 4. In addition to the main exhibition, there were dedicated forums, meetings with travel influencers, start-up competitions, and events for the MICE segment (corporate and business tourism).

For us, ATM 2025 was a masterclass in professionalism, innovation, and vision. It’s the kind of event where you see the future of tourism take shape, where meaningful networking happens, and where you leave with ideas that can fuel an entire year. Dubai remains a central hub for the industry, and ATM is an event we wholeheartedly recommend to everyone involved in tourism.

Record Numbers and Energy from Every Corner of the Globe

Compared to last year, ATM 2025 grew by 16%, a clear sign that global tourism is bouncing back strongly. More than 2,800 companies exhibited, with the most significant growth coming from: Africa (+21%), Asia (+20%), the Middle East (+19%), and Europe (+17%). Asia stood out as the fastest-growing region at the event.

Technology in Tourism: ATM Travel Tech Was a Star of the Show

One of the most spectacular areas was “ATM Travel Tech,” where over 100 tech companies showcased their innovations. We experienced virtual reality, faster booking apps, and platforms that connect travel agencies with tourists in entirely new ways. This zone grew by 26% compared to last year and also featured a “Start-Up & Innovation Zone” with 21 companies that impressed us with bold, creative ideas.

Major Hotel Chains in Full Force

The hotel segment grew by 12% from the previous edition. From Marriott and Hilton to luxury hotels from Asia and Africa, all the major international chains had impressive stands. What stood out to us? The openness and willingness of hotel representatives to collaborate with emerging markets — including Romania.

Conferences, Networking, and Inspiring People

Over the four days, we attended dozens of sessions at the ATM Conference, held across several stages: Global Stage, Future Stage, and the new Business Events Stage. More than 200 global tourism experts spoke, people who are shaping the industry’s future. We learned a lot about sustainability, digital transformation, and how to organize efficient business events (IBTM@ATM).

High-Level UAE Officials in Attendance

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was present at the event. The official opening was conducted by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the stands and spoke with exhibitors. The presence of these highly respected officials was a major event in itself — both for exhibitors and organizers.

One detail we noticed and admired: the presence of tourism students at the fair. Marching in organized groups, polite and curious, they came to understand the professional world they will one day join. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to the future of tourism.

Top 10 International Markets at ATM 2025

Aside from the UAE and Gulf countries, the most represented international markets at ATM 2025 were:

• India (6%)
• Turkey (3.2%)
• United Kingdom (3%)
• Egypt (3%)
• USA (2%)
• China (1.5%)
• Sri Lanka (1%)
• Spain (1%)
• Maldives (1%)
• Pakistan (1%)

Romania should begin to carve out a place for itself in the global tourism market, especially given the rising interest in authentic travel and ecotourism. Unfortunately, we only spotted a small booth representing Salina Praid. We’re in direct competition with our neighbors — Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece, and Hungary — all of which had large, eye-catching pavilions.

Arabian Travel Market Is More Than a Fair – It’s a Window into the Future of Global Tourism

Every booth, every presentation, and every meeting showed us how fast the industry is evolving, how crucial innovation and connectivity are, and how much international collaboration matters. For us, as travel journalists from Romania, attending ATM 2025 was more than just visiting an event — it was a lesson in vision. We came home with fresh ideas, valuable contacts, and a renewed enthusiasm for what’s next in global tourism.

If you work in the industry, ATM Dubai is a must-attend event. And if you’re passionate about travel, stay with us — more inspiring stories from the world’s most innovative corners are coming soon.