The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 opened on September 14, 2026, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The four-day event focused on the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” gathering tourism and industry professionals from around the world to explore future trends shaping the travel sector.
Technology and Innovation Take Center Stage
The 2026 edition introduced the inaugural ATM Travel Tech exhibition. More than 180 companies from 30 countries showcased applications in artificial intelligence (AI), virtual and augmented reality, robotics, fintech, and green technology designed to transform travel through innovative digital solutions.
Exhibitor and Attendance Figures
The exhibition hosted over 2,800 exhibitors representing tourism destinations, airlines, hotels,
and travel technology providers. Attendance exceeded 55,000 tourism professionals, reinforcing ATM’s status as a key international trade platform connecting diverse sectors of the travel industry.
Regional Consumer Tech Adoption and AI Trends
Siddharth Sudhakar, general manager for MENA at Trip.com, said the data shows consumers in the Gulf region are highly tech-savvy and digitally advanced across diverse age groups and interests. He noted AI has moved beyond travel inspiration and information to include actual trip planning and booking of activities, flights, hotels, and airport transfers.
China and the Middle East have started cooperating in AI and technology for the tourism sector, aiming to combine the Middle East’s
unique culture and travel experiences with Chinese AI innovations.
Statements from Industry Leadership
Siddharth Sudhakar said: “The data shows that consumers in the Gulf region are highly tech-savvy and digitally advanced, with diverse age groups and interests.” He added, “We are seeing AI move beyond providing travel inspiration and information into actual trip planning and booking, including activities, flights, hotels and airport transfers.” Sudhakar also noted the ongoing cooperation between China and the Middle East to leverage their respective strengths.
Qatar Airways had a dedicated exhibition area showcased at ATM 2026, highlighting the airline’s presence at the event.
