ATM 2025 to Address Soaring Growth in Aviation as Connectivity Takes Centre Stage

Arabian Travel Market

The 32nd edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 28 April to 1 May 2025. With the theme ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, the event will bring together global aviation leaders to explore trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the sector’s future.

Aviation’s Role in Tomorrow’s Tourism

Connectivity, sustainability, and technological advancements will dominate discussions at this year’s event. With global aviation revenues expected to exceed US$1 trillion and passenger numbers projected to reach 5.2 billion in 2025, surpassing the five-billion mark for the first time, ATM 2025 will serve as a critical platform to address the challenges and opportunities accompanying this unprecedented growth.

Key topics on the agenda include:

• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): SAF production is expected to exceed 2.1 million tonnes in 2025, double the 2024 output. Airlines such as Emirates and Etihad are leading the charge, significantly reducing CO2 emissions on routes to Singapore, Amsterdam, London, and Japan.
• Technological Innovation: AI and automation are transforming aviation, enabling predictive maintenance, streamlining customer journeys, and optimising routes. Examples like London Heathrow’s AI-assisted air traffic control and Gatwick Airport’s smart-stand technology highlight how tech is reshaping operational efficiency.
• Business Travel Resurgence: With corporate travel on the rise, ATM’s new feature, IBTM@ATM, will focus on trends and strategies for business travel, which is expected to grow significantly in 2025.

The Rise of the ‘Gate Escape’

Modern travellers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are transforming airports into destinations in their own right. Known as the ‘gate escape’ trend, airports are becoming hubs of luxury and relaxation. According to research, 43% of younger travellers consider a destination’s airport experience when booking trips, with features like sleep pods, spas, and Michelin-starred restaurants in high demand.

ATM 2025: A Hub for Global Collaboration

The aviation sector is expected to be a major focus at ATM 2025, with exhibitors like Emirates, flydubai, flynas, Air Charter Service, and Mayfair Jets returning to the show. In 2024, aviation exhibitors accounted for 4.5% of participants, occupying 10% of the show space, and this is expected to grow significantly in 2025.

Confirmed sessions include:

• Connecting the Future of Travel: Aviation, Cruise & Rail: This Global Stage panel will delve into how advancements in aviation, cruise, and rail are enhancing tourism connectivity.
• Sustainable and Transformative Developments: Discussions will explore how the integration of sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology can redefine air travel and its role in global tourism.

Strategic Partnerships and Industry Support

ATM 2025 is held in collaboration with key partners, including:

• Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET): Destination Partner
• Emirates: Official Airline Partner
• IHG Hotels & Resorts: Official Hotel Partner
• Al Rais Travel: Official DMC Partner

A Platform for Progress

“Through dedicated sessions, ATM 2025 will foster dialogue among thought leaders, innovators, and stakeholders, advancing sustainable practices and technological solutions to redefine aviation and connectivity,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM.

For more updates and information, visit ATM Press Releases.

With connectivity as its cornerstone, ATM 2025 promises to shape the future of travel and tourism, creating new pathways for growth in the aviation sector and beyond.