Dubai was abuzz with excitement as His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, officially opened the 30th Arabian Travel Market (ATM) on May 1st, 2023. The ATM, known as the Middle East’s most prominent travel and tourism exhibition, is poised to deliver a dynamic platform for industry stakeholders to explore innovations in the realm of decarbonisation, aligning with its theme ‘Working Towards Net Zero‘.
Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the city has transformed into a crucial investment hub and launch pad for regional and global companies. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted Dubai’s role as a significant player in stimulating global economy across various sectors, with an emphasis on tourism. The efforts of the private sector, a critical partner in Dubai’s development initiatives, have helped establish a robust infrastructure and world-class hospitality services.
This year’s ATM, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 1st-4th, boasts a 27 percent increase in exhibitor participation compared to the previous year. It’s estimated to attract around 34,000 attendees and host over 2,000 exhibitors and representatives from more than 150 nations. The event presents a unique opportunity for international tourism professionals to forge new connections, exchange knowledge and ideas, and showcase innovations towards achieving net zero carbon emissions in the industry.
Sheikh Ahmed toured the exhibition floor, visiting various pavilions of foreign and Arab countries as well as global companies. He expressed his pleasure at welcoming such a diverse range of participants to the region’s premier travel, tourism, and hospitality event. Among the pavilions he visited were those of Italy, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Hilton, as well as local departments such as DET, GDRFA-Dubai, and Emirates Airline. The first day of ATM 2023 also featured engaging sessions on the Global Stage, Travel Tech Stage, and the newly introduced Sustainability Hub, exploring themes such as sustainable travel, AI in enhancing customer experience, and achieving net positive hospitality.