ATM 2025 to Explore Technology, Traveler Trends, and Enhanced Connectivity

The 32nd edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 28 April to 1 May 2025, exploring how technological advancements and shifting traveler behaviors are driving enhanced connectivity within the global travel industry.  The event’s theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, will highlight the role of innovation, personalization, and cutting-edge technology in shaping the future of tourism.

Each year, ATM addresses emerging trends and issues transforming the travel landscape, and the 2025 edition will focus on how technology and new traveler behaviors are influencing tourism. The conference and exhibition will explore how these changes contribute to and benefit from enhanced connectivity, facilitating smoother interactions across the travel industry.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at Arabian Travel Market, commented, “Technology-driven connectivity is a key area for growth in the travel sector, but it also includes the seamless flow of people, goods, and ideas. ATM 2025 is the ideal platform to engage with the global trends and cultural shifts that are shaping the future of the tourism sector.”

Among the trends set to influence the market in 2025 is nostalgia travel. As many travelers, including those from the UAE, seek to relive childhood memories and reconnect with their past, opportunities are growing for travel companies to offer nostalgic experiences. Meanwhile, sports and music tourism are experiencing substantial growth, with sports tourism expected to be worth $1.33 trillion by 2032, while music tourism is forecast to reach $13.8 billion. Regional markets are capitalizing on these trends, with Saudi Arabia welcoming 2.5 million overseas tourists for 80 international sports events over the past four years.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is poised for a travel resurgence in 2025, with travel to and from the region expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels. This growth is driven by initiatives such as visa-free travel, digital nomad visas, and the influence of popular TV shows like The White Lotus and Squid Game. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that the middle class in APAC will drive 50% of global air passenger growth by 2043.

At ATM 2025, cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), high-speed Wi-Fi, and virtual reality (VR) will take center stage. These innovations are revolutionizing travel experiences by creating personalized, immersive in-flight entertainment, shopping, and services, allowing airlines and service providers to anticipate customer preferences in ways previously unimagined.

Another key trend in 2025 is solo travel, as more travelers embrace the freedom of exploring the world on their own. According to Squaremouth, 42% of travelers plan to embark on solo trips this year. The rise of digital nomadism, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is also influencing travel behaviors, providing new opportunities for businesses catering to remote workers and solo travelers.

Sustainability continues to be a significant focus in the travel sector, with an increasing number of travelers prioritizing eco-friendly practices. Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey reveals that 81% of Millennials and 79% of Gen Zs believe businesses should enable sustainable purchasing decisions. The ecotourism market, projected to reach $429 billion by 2028, reflects growing interest in responsible tourism.

ATM 2025 will bring together professionals from various travel sectors, including leisure, luxury, corporate, and business events, to explore new business opportunities, share knowledge, and network. The event’s extensive conference program will feature international and regional experts, providing valuable insights into the future of the travel and tourism industry.

Strategic partners for ATM 2025 include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Emirates (Official Airline Partner), IHG Hotels & Resorts (Official Hotel Partner), and Al Rais Travel (Official DMC Partner).