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The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism will showcase the emirate’s latest tourism initiatives and forge new partnerships at the 33rd edition of the Arabian Travel Market, according to an official announcement. The event, set to run from September 14 to 17, 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, serves as a key platform for the global travel industry to reconnect and explore emerging trends. Organisers expect thousands of professionals to attend, building on the success of previous editions that have driven significant business deals across the sector.
According to the Visit Dubai events calendar, the Arabian Travel Market generates more than AED91 billion in deals annually, making it a cornerstone for inbound and outbound travel business in the Middle East. The 2026 edition will operate under the theme of Travel 2040, focusing on innovation, technology and sustainability to shape the future of the industry. Previous gatherings have drawn government ministers, thought leaders and executives who use the platform to negotiate contracts and identify new opportunities.
Dubai has recorded strong tourism growth in recent years, with the department’s performance reports showing 18.72 million overnight visitors in 2024, a 9 percent increase from the prior year. That momentum continued into 2025, when the emirate welcomed 17.55 million visitors from January to November, reflecting a 5 percent rise compared with the same period in 2024. The participation at ATM 2026 aims to capitalise on this recovery by highlighting Dubai’s diverse attractions and advanced infrastructure.
The department’s involvement includes presenting Dubai as a destination for leisure, business and luxury travel, a strategy aligned with the broader Dubai Economic Agenda that targets top global positioning in tourism. Event details published on the official Visit Dubai site indicate that the fair will feature dedicated zones for aviation, hospitality and travel technology. More than 2,000 exhibitors and over 40,000 visitors are anticipated to take part, the organisers have projected.
Discussions at the market will cover artificial intelligence, sustainable practices and connectivity improvements, topics that have gained prominence since the post-pandemic rebound. The co-located ATM Travel Tech exhibition will spotlight emerging solutions in fintech, robotics and immersive experiences. Industry partners such as Emirates and IHG Hotels have committed support for the gathering, reinforcing its status as a major annual convening.
This year’s focus on long-term horizons reflects ongoing efforts to position the Middle East as a leader in innovative travel solutions, according to statements from event partners. The Dubai World Trade Centre, as the venue, has hosted the exhibition for more than three decades, contributing to its established reputation. Registration remains open for professionals seeking to engage with the full programme of conferences and networking sessions.
