The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s position as a global tourism destination, including the launch of the UAE’s first unified national tourism identity and a new platform promoting multi-emirate travel.
Preparedness and multilateral collaboration dominated the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, as policymakers and tourism leaders from the Gulf, Europe, Central Asia and the United Nations examined the resilience and long-term prospects of the region’s tourism industry.
Bahrain Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi participated in Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, highlighting the event’s role in strengthening international tourism cooperation, showcasing emerging trends and building partnerships, while reaffirming Bahrain’s commitment to sustainable growth and global tourism competitiveness.
Gulf nations should highlight their individual tourism and business events offerings while presenting a more coordinated regional proposition to international visitors, regional industry leaders said at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai.
Emirates signed 11 partnership agreements at Arabian Travel Market, covering tourism promotion, customer experiences, worker welfare and specialist travel services. Agreements were renewed with Sri Lanka, Maldives and tourism bodies, while new deals covered Ras Al Khaimah, Japan, Italy, OWWA, Cisalpina Tours and Kuwait Airways.
Technology, talent and customer focus will be central to maintaining competitiveness as the global travel industry enters its next phase of growth, according to senior executives at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the 33rd Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, reviewing innovations and trends shaping global travel and tourism.
Seychelles Tourism Board is placing the GCC at the heart of its high-value, sustainable tourism strategy, as around 60% of international visitors transit Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi. At ATM 2026, it unveiled plans to deepen regional partnerships and broaden the destination’s appeal.
Rotana is accelerating its regional and international expansion, with 40 properties and 8,334 keys under development alongside 78 operating properties, as the hotel management company outlines its growth strategy at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026.
Shaza Hotels is targeting Turkey, Central Asia and North Africa for expansion from 2027, unveiling its international growth strategy at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai as it seeks culturally relevant, family-focused hospitality opportunities beyond its GCC base.
