A number of leaders from the international aviation sector are expected to attend the 32ndn.d The edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will be held from 28 April to 1 May 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), will discuss some of the industry's most important topics.
Daniel Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, Said: “At ATM, we recognize the critical importance of addressing the latest trends and innovations shaping the aviation industry. New technologies and increased use of sustainable fuels will be a game-changer for the sector, with far-reaching benefits for years to come.”
Under the show theme, 'Global Travel:' a number of sessions will be held throughout the four-day event covering various trending topics ranging from sustainable aviation and new technologies to the return of corporate travel and the rise of airport entertainment. Developing tomorrow's tourism through enhanced connectivity'.
One particular issue that will attract attention is the expected growth of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which, according to recent results from the International Aviation Transport Association (IATA), sees SAF production doubling to 1 million tons in 2024. It is expected to peak at 2.1 million tonnes in 2025.
Regionally, Emirates and Etihad have significantly reduced CO2 emissions by using SAF on routes including Singapore Changi Airport, Amsterdam, London Heathrow, Paris, Lyon, Oslo and Japan.
New technologies will also be addressed due to their growing role in supporting airports and airlines to drive operational efficiency and reduce costs. Artificial intelligence (AI), for example, supports aviation industry professionals in a variety of ways, from streamlining customer journeys to tracking weather, optimizing routes and even performing predictive maintenance. It has become an integral tool for the aviation industry, analyzing situations to determine potential obstacles and providing data-driven decisions that reduce risk.
Prime examples include London Heathrow Airport's pilot AI-assisted air traffic control system, Japan Airlines' AI-powered baggage management system and Gatwick Airport's AI-powered smart-stand technology, all of which have been developed to improve how aircraft changes are managed.
The growth of the sector is a topic that will generate significant discussion on the show floor. In 2025, industry revenues will surpass US$1 trillion for the first time, according to IATA. Additionally, the number of travelers is expected to hit 5.2 billion, 6.7% more than in 2024, surpassing the five billion mark for the first time, with the number of flights expected to reach 40 million.
Business travel will feature high on the agenda, especially as part of ATM's new feature, IBTM@ATM. According to Flight Center Corporate, business travel is set to increase in 2025, with 40% of businesses planning to increase travel from July to June and 42% of corporates forecasting to spend more than in 2024.
Another trend in 2025, which has already become prominent in several airports in the Middle East, is the 'gate escape'. For modern travelers, especially Gen Z and Millennials, the airport is transforming into a hub for entertainment, luxury and relaxation.
According to Booking.com's annual travel forecast study, 43% of Gen Z and millennials consider destinations based on airports, sleep pods (37% Gen Z, 35% millennials) and spas (31% Gen Z, 29% millennials). to Michelin star restaurants (22% Gen Z, 24% Millennials).
This year, ATM will welcome several new and returning exhibitors from the aviation sector, including Emirates, Flydubai, Flynns, Flydel, Air Charter Services and Mayfair Zests. In 2024, 4.5% of exhibitors were from the aviation sector, occupying 10% of the show space, with significant growth expected in 2025.
Sessions already confirmed include the Global Stage Connecting the Future of Travel: Aviation, Cruise and Rail, the next step in enhancing the tourism offer. There, an expert panel will dive deep into how advances in aviation, cruise and rail enhance connectivity regionally and internationally, discussing the future of sustainable development, transformative projects and integrated networks.
“Through dedicated sessions, we are bringing together thought leaders, innovators and industry stakeholders to explore how cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices can redefine air travel. By fostering conversation and collaboration, ATM is an important platform for advancing the future of aviation and global connectivity. continues to function as,” added Curtis.
Held in conjunction with the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025's strategic partners include Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.