The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, despite geopolitical tensions, demonstrated that Dubai remains an attractive destination for business. This event, held from September 14 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, became a test of trust for Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.
Extensive Participation at the Exhibition
With representatives from various countries including India, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, over 55 destination booths were showcased at the exhibition. Participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2026, despite a noticeable decline compared to previous years, reflected the strong will of the tourism industry to continue its activities.
Read more: Stunning Design of Dubai Holding's New Office in Collaboration with CSCEC ME
While uncertainties can quickly lead to cancellations and restrictions on corporate travel, thousands of tourism professionals chose to travel to Dubai and conduct business. The experience outside the exhibition halls was also significant, with shorter immigration lines and hotel services provided normally and at a high quality.
Challenges of the RX App
However, issues arose with the performance of the RX app, designed to coordinate meetings. The media booth name eTurboNews was registered as MP45 in the system, but this number did not actually exist. This caused confusion and the loss of pre-arranged meetings.
Additionally, the communication tools available in the app system were unable to respond quickly to the needs of participants. The lack of an effective communication channel, such as email or a direct phone number, created difficulties in finding and contacting others. These issues clearly showed that technology should facilitate communications, not be part of the challenges.
Despite these challenges, ATM 2026 made significant announcements regarding Middle Eastern tourism. Emirates Airlines signed 11 cooperation agreements in the fields of destinations, technology, and medical tourism. Furthermore, the Emirates Air and Rail Alliance signed an agreement to develop the air-rail travel experience.
Ultimately, despite the existing challenges, the Arabian Travel Market 2026 conveyed a positive message about the tourism industry's ability to recover quickly to its audience. Dubai showcased its capability to attract travelers and investors as a high-quality business and tourism destination.
Read more: New Vision of Dubai Airport Director: Travel Without Passport and Long Lines · Arabian Travel Market 2026, a Global Gathering of the Tourism Industry in Dubai
