ATM to launch dedicated business...

IBTM@ATM Zone to focus on potential of US$2.5 trillion corporate events market

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will launch a dedicated business events zone at this year’s show, which takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in the UAE from 28 April to 1 May 2025.

A partnership with BTM, a leading event for the Business Events industry, the IBTM@ATM Zone recognises the growth in the business events sector, which is predicted to reach US$2.5 trillion by 2035, according to Allied Market Research.

More than 7,000 attendees from last year’s ATM expressed an interest in such content.

The zone is designed to provide data-driven insights, with the Business Events Stage hosting sessions on the future of business travel, technological innovation, socio-economic growth and other factors that will impact this lucrative sector in the Middle East.

Business travel is set to increase in 2025, with 42% of corporates forecasted to spend more than in 2024, according to Flight Centre Corporate.

“This year’s theme of enhanced connectivity is particularly relevant to the evolving business events sector, which thrives on strategic partnerships, knowledge exchange and innovation,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.

“Through IBTM@ATM, we are strengthening our commitment to adding value to our exhibitors and attendees by creating a dynamic community where suppliers and buyers can engage in meaningful networking, business exchange sessions and a high-impact content programme. By leveraging our unique insights, we aim to facilitate connections and unlock new opportunities that drive long-term growth within this thriving market segment.”

Research shows that corporate events – such as conferences, trade shows and exhibitions – currently deliver US$1.6 trillion in global GDP annually and support millions of jobs.

Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director at IBTM World, said: “Dubai has firmly established itself as an international hub for business events, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, and it’s a pleasure to be joining DWTC’s incredible line-up of industry-leading events through our collaboration with ATM.”

The launch of IBTM@ATM follows the announcement of the ICCA as the official Business Events Partner for ATM 2025. ICCA will lead sessions at this year’s show and launch an exclusive government meeting ranking report.

Now in its 32nd year, ATM is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. In 2024, the event attracted more than 47,000 attendees, and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from 161 countries.

With the 2025 edition of ATM at Dubai World Trade Centre held under the theme ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, the show will also explore how tech is transforming the industry.

Travel technology exhibitors at ATM 2025 are up 25% on last year, reflecting the impact technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), is having on the industry. This year, the Future Stage will host an array of speakers covering topics as diverse as machine learning (ML), blockchain and augmented reality, as well as AI.

ATM 2025 will also address key trends shaping the future of aviation, with a spotlight on sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), AI-powered innovation and evolving airport experiences.

The 32nd edition of ATM will expand to 13 halls, up from 12, growing across all sectors.

For more information, visit hub.wtm.com; to arrange a meeting with Connecting Travel at our ATM 2025 stand, email nadine.bridi@connectingtravel.com

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