ATM 2025 Highlights: Middle East Travel Trends and Opportunities
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 has become the focal point for unveiling the latest trends and opportunities within the Middle East's travel sector. Research presented at the event, including the 'ATM Trends Report: Leisure, Luxury and MICE - Leading Trends for the Middle East' by Tourism Economics, underscores a significant rebound in global travel, with the Middle East outpacing global averages. The report highlights that international demand is a key driver, accounting for over 85% of the expected growth in accommodation demand within the GCC.
Strategic location, relaxed visa policies, and substantial investments in tourism infrastructure are cited as pivotal factors fueling the region's recovery and growth. Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, emphasized these elements during her session, 'Partnering for Progress,' pointing to the emergence of new opportunities in entertainment, educational, and elderly travel segments. These insights reflect a broader shift in travel preferences and the sector's adaptability to changing consumer behaviors.
Further analysis by VIDEC Consultants sheds light on the burgeoning opportunities for online travel agencies (OTAs) in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India. The region's young, digitally savvy population, coupled with robust air connectivity and cultural ties, is fostering growth across various travel segments, including religious, wellness, visiting friends and relatives (VFR), and luxury holidays. VIDEC projects the UAE's Total Air Market to grow from $4.2 billion in 2024 to $5.4 billion by 2028, marking a 32% increase from 2019 levels.
The ATM 2025 discussions also highlighted the competitive landscape for OTAs, with airline websites and apps expected to capture a significant share of bookings, driven by loyalty programs and enhanced digital platforms. The UAE's diverse airline offerings and large expatriate population present a fertile ground for OTAs, albeit amidst stiff competition. These developments signal a vibrant future for the Middle East's travel sector, characterized by innovation, strategic partnerships, and a keen focus on meeting the evolving needs of global travelers.
