The UAE’s MICE market is forecast to grow to US$9.26 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.96%. The Saudi Arabian market is projected to reach US$5.33 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.93%. Together, these markets are expected to drive the Gulf’s emergence as one of the world’s most dynamic business event regions, supported by major tourism development programmes, strong air connectivity and the growing appeal of the Middle East as a platform for global trade and innovation. According to Mordor Intelligence, the region’s meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions (MICE) industry continues to expand at pace as investment in large-scale venues, infrastructure, and international partnerships accelerates. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, IBTM @ ATM will return to Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4–7 May, with a dedicated business events hub in Hall 3. This expanded space emphasises the show’s strategic focus on the global business events sector and highlights the Middle East’s position as one of the fastest-growing regions for meetings and events worldwide. The ATM Travel Trends Report 2025, produced in partnership with Tourism Economics, also indicates a continued rise in business travel across the Middle East, with the region’s share of global corporate travel spending forecast to increase from 2.5% in 2024 to more than 3% by 2030. This is being supported by the steady recovery of international demand, improved air connectivity and the continued development of business tourism infrastructure. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “The expansion of IBTM @ ATM reflects the strength and ambition of the Middle East’s business events sector. By …
Read More »ATM launches ‘ATM Travel Tech’ as standalone event for 2026 edition
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) announced the launch of ATM Travel Tech, a fully co-located event that will debut during ATM 2026, taking place from 4–7 May 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Previously a fast-growing section of the main show, ATM Travel Tech will now span two dedicated halls, highlighting the growing importance of technology in reshaping global travel. Themed ‘Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” the event will showcase cutting-edge developments in AI, smart mobility, fintech, immersive tech, and sustainability. The new format will feature over 180 exhibitors from 30 countries, including major names like Sabre, Amadeus, Travelport, and HBX Group, alongside hundreds of tech start-ups. A central Tech & Innovation Hub (850 sqm) will house product demos, immersive zones, and the Future Stage, which will host more than 25 sessions and two pitch battles. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at ATM, said, “ATM Travel Tech is now a platform for the boldest innovations transforming the future of travel.” This expansion comes as the global travel tech market grows toward a projected $18.6 billion by 2033.
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