Dubai – The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 conference focused on preparedness and international cooperation, examining the resilience and future of tourism in the Persian Gulf, Central Asia, and Europe.
Analysis of Geopolitical Challenges
The first day of this event featured senior decision-makers assessing the tourism industry's response to geopolitical challenges and exploring long-term growth opportunities. ATM 2026 will run until Thursday, September 17, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Cabinet Member and Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Al Sheikha Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, delivered speeches on the first day of the event. Al Marri referred to the stronger foundations built over the past five decades in the tourism industry and other economic sectors of the UAE, emphasizing that this development is a key factor in overcoming recent challenges.
The Role of Cooperation in Crisis Management
Al Sheikha Al Nuaimi also highlighted the importance of preparedness and relationships in crisis management, stating that countries that effectively manage crises are those that prepare in advance and establish sustainable relationships. She added that this type of preparedness helps tourism destinations respond better to new challenges.
During this session, Tzitzikostas confirmed the European Union's support for the UAE and Gulf countries, pointing to signs of improvement in tourism activities and stating that recent statistics indicate a return to a stronger growth path.
Another topic addressed in this discussion was the growing share of tourism in regional economies. Al Sirafi stated that tourism accounts for over 11% of the GDP of Gulf countries, which is about 10% higher than the global average.
Subsequently, Akkulov compared the approaches of Gulf countries and Uzbekistan, referencing this country's collaborations with Azerbaijan and the United Nations in the field of tourism.
The ATM 2026 program, titled "Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology," will explore the forces affecting the tourism industry in the coming years. Artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and traveler expectations will be examined at this event.
This event serves as a platform for developing collaborations, exchanging knowledge, and exploring new business opportunities, gathering tourism leaders, officials, and industry representatives from global markets.
Read more: Suspension of Flights by a Major European Airline to Dubai Until September 19
