Readiness and multilateral cooperation became key discussion topics on the first day of the Arab Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, where officials and tourism leaders from the Gulf, Europe, Central Asia, and the United Nations examined the resilience and long-term prospects of the tourism industry in the region.
Focus on Innovation and Technology
The 33rd edition of ATM is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from September 17 under the theme "Travel 2040: Advancing New Frontiers through Innovation and Technology," focusing on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart mobility, and changing traveler expectations.
Abdullah Al Marri, UAE Cabinet Member and Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Sheikha Al Nuwais, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, delivered speeches on the first day of the event. Al Marri stated regarding the UAE's response to recent geopolitical challenges: "Everyone talks about tourism resilience; I talk about the foundations of tourism. Because what has been built over the past 50 years is the basis of what we have witnessed in recent months."
Commitment to Cooperation and Readiness
Sheikha Al Nuwais emphasized the importance of readiness and cooperation in managing future crises, stating: "Countries that respond better to crises are those that prepare for them before they occur. They build relationships earlier, share information, and build trust."
Following this, a ministerial discussion was held featuring Al Marri, Fatima Jafar Al Siraafi, Minister of Tourism of Bahrain, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Transport and Tourism of Europe, and Abdulaziz Akulov, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan. In this session, Tzitzikostas reiterated the European Union's support for Gulf countries, stating: "I am here to deliver a stronger message to you. The European Union stands with its friends and partners, including the UAE and Gulf countries."
Fatima Al Siraafi pointed to the growing share of tourism in the economies of Gulf countries, saying: "The share of tourism in global GDP is about 10 percent, and this figure is over 11 percent in Gulf countries." These numbers reinforce the position of Gulf countries in the tourism industry and indicate the future potential of this sector.
Akulov highlighted the similarities between Uzbekistan and GCC countries and emphasized efforts to transform Uzbekistan into a regional hub for tourism cooperation.
Daniel Kurts, UAE Regional Portfolio Director at RX Global, stated: "The insights provided by officials on the first day of ATM 2026 reflect the importance of travel and tourism for the region's economy. Gulf countries have provided a strong and united response to global geopolitical challenges, and readiness and cooperation form the foundations of market resilience."
The first day of the event included seven global sessions addressing topics such as live experiences and technology-based luxury tourism.
