ATM establishes itself as a key event on global tourism calendar: Hamdan

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor / WAM

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, on Tuesday toured Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.

He was accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Hamdan said that the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, have laid a solid foundation for strengthening the UAE’s status as a global hub for shaping the future, driving innovation, and forging partnerships that fuel sustainable growth across vital sectors.

During the visit, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the highlights of the 2025 edition of ATM, which opened yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre and runs until May 1, 2025. A leading global event for the travel and tourism industry, this year’s ATM has attracted about 2,800 exhibitors from 161 countries.

“The Arabian Travel Market has firmly established itself as a key event on the global tourism calendar. This year’s ATM once again reflects the UAE’s role in bridging global markets and shaping the future of global travel. The exhibitions and conferences sector is a vital engine of the UAE’s economy. It plays a crucial role in attracting investment, enabling knowledge exchange, and creating high-value opportunities across a wide range of industries,” said Sheikh Hamdan.

“By continuing to invest in world-class infrastructure, fostering an agile legislative environment, and strengthening international partnerships, we are empowering this sector to accelerate sustainable economic growth and reinforce Dubai’s global competitiveness. We remain committed to positioning Dubai as a global hub for ideas, talent, and innovation, a place where visionary thinking creates new opportunities and drives progress,” he added.

During his tour, Sheikh Hamdan visited several international pavilions, where participating countries showcased their tourism and travel offerings, and hospitality services.

Sheikh Hamdan noted that Arabian Travel Market provides a platform for stakeholders across the travel and tourism ecosystem to explore opportunities for collaboration and build partnerships that support industry growth.

Also accompanying Sheikh Hamdan on the tour were Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; and Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs.

This year’s ATM has recorded a significant increase in international exhibitor participation, with a 20% rise from Asia, a 15% increase from the Middle East, more than 12% growth from Europe, and continued growth from Africa and the Americas.

Themed ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 spotlights the role of innovation, startups, and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of global tourism.

Bringing together professionals and leaders from across the global travel sector, including leisure, business events (MICE), luxury, and corporate travel, ATM 2025 features a record 2,800 exhibitors from 161 countries and is expected to welcome 55,000 attendees.

Arabian Travel Market 2025 is organised in partnership with the Dubai World Trade Centre, with the support of key partners: Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (Destination Partner), Emirates (Official Airline Partner), IHG Hotels & Resorts (Official Hotel Partner), and Al Rais Travel (Official Destination Management Partner).

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the addition of Al Rayaheen Retreat in Khorfakkan to the Sharjah Collection, during its participation at Arabian Travel Market 2025.

Developed in collaboration with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Al Rayaheen Retreat is undergoing final restoration works, set for completion by the end of Q2.

The project enhances the site’s cultural and architectural value, aligning with Sharjah’s approach to heritage preservation and sustainable tourism.

Located in Freej Al Rayhan, the retreat includes 20 restored heritage homes. The largest, once owned by the Al Mushtagal family, now houses a restaurant, lounge and mini museum. Accommodation ranges from one- to four-bedroom units, each featuring traditional courtyards and native trees. Activities include kayaking, watersports, fishing and guided heritage tours.

The retreat’s name refers to the basil plant (Rayhan), once widespread in the area. The project was initiated under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and follows UNESCO-aligned restoration standards.