What does the future hold for the tourism industry? Record breaking profits and employment, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
While announcing the theme of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 taking place from 28 April – 1 May 2025, the WTTC revealed that the tourism industry is likely to deliver US$11.1 trillion in economic contribution over the next decade and employ around 449 million people.
“These figures underscore the increasing economic influence of travel and tourism and signify strong industry recovery and growth,” said Danielle Curtis, ATM Exhibition Director for the Middle East.
Returning to Dubai World Travel Centre in April next year, the three-day event will focus on how the future of tourism is defined by connectivity and collaboration across borders, industries and communities.
The theme of “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”, will delve into the significance of fostering cross-border collaboration and emphasising the need for connectivity beyond technology.
“It (connectivity) also involves creating communities that serve as important centres for trade and tourism,” Mr Curtis added. “By working together and embracing innovation and better connectivity, ATM is paving the way for the future of travel.”
“This ensures that tourism in the coming years is more sustainable, inclusive, and closely linked with global economic growth.”
Next year, the annual MICE, luxury and corporate travel event is expected to welcome more than the 47,000 industry leaders that travelled to Dubai for ATM 2024. Over the three days, attendees will hear from international and regional experts, explore the latest trends and innovations while also connect with peers on the exhibition floor.
ATM will also serve as a significant boost to Dubai tourism which welcomed a record breaking 9.31 million international overnight visitors during the first half of 2024. Visitor numbers were up 9% on the same period last year, and was driven by key government strategies, according to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
The government body acknowledged Dubai Economic Agenda D33 as a major contributor to the city’s rising tourism numbers, along with smart city developments such as flying taxis and major shopping expansions.
