The Arab Travel Market 2026 has successfully concluded, showcasing robust international participation from the global travel and tourism community. Notable decision-makers from countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, the UK, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Turkey, Bahrain, South Africa, Qatar, the USA, and China gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre from September 14 to 17. The 33rd edition of the event attracted industry participants from both regional and international markets, with over 55 destinations presenting their services and products throughout the four-day event. The next Arab Travel Market will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 3 to 6, 2027.
A Global Platform
In remarks underscoring the exhibition’s significance, Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing, stated: “Arab Travel Market 2026 once again served as a vital global platform, uniting leading figures from the travel and tourism sector in the UAE and around the world. The diverse participation reflects the strong confidence in the sector and emphasises the event’s role as an ideal forum for the global travel community. It has allowed for meaningful partnership opportunities and the exploration of new collaborative avenues, as well as the exchange of experiences and insights in pursuit of growth and innovation within the tourism industry.”
Kazim further expressed pride in the successful edition of the Arab Travel Market, which enabled ongoing dialogue and connection with partners. “We look forward to building on these partnerships to cement the emirate’s position on the global tourism map and to support the sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness of the sector, in line with our wise leadership’s vision and the objectives of the Dubai D33 Agenda,” he added.
Highlights of the Event
Daniel Curtis, Regional Director of RX Global’s portfolio in the UAE, commented on the strong turnout at Arab Travel Market 2026. “We were delighted to witness impressive participation from international markets, with the event facilitating a series of significant announcements from leaders in both the public and private sectors.” Notably, the technology space within the event doubled in size this year, marking the introduction of ‘Travel Tech,’ the accompanying exhibition.
Arab Travel Market 2026 served as a dynamic platform for launching a range of important announcements and agreements across sectors such as aviation, rail, hospitality, and technology. Among the highlights was the launch of the “Visit UAE” campaign, the first unified national tourism brand, aimed at establishing the UAE as a comprehensive destination. This year also saw the unveiling of the “UAE Grand Tour” initiative, an online platform offering visitors a seamless journey across all seven emirates.
Emirates Airlines signed 11 memoranda of understanding during the event, enhancing its connections with seven regional and international destinations while bolstering partnerships in technology, marketing, products, packages, and traveller experiences. Rotana Group announced its next phase of regional expansion during the market, with a portfolio of 40 hotels in development, which includes ten projects in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the strategic significance of the Saudi market for the hospitality giant.
Etihad Airways and Etihad Rail illustrated their commitment to enhancing travel experiences by signing an MOU to explore creating a seamless travel experience that integrates both air and land transport in the UAE. This initiative aims to connect visitors and residents to destinations throughout the nation, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a key gateway.
Mastercard and Trip.com showcased AI-driven booking experiences through the “TripGenie” platform, jointly developed with Network International, which promises to transform how consumers search for and plan their travel. Additionally, a coalition consisting of Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group, and Kun Holdings announced plans to launch a new airline in Saudi Arabia, set to commence operations on September 20, 2026, connecting Dammam with Riyadh, Medina, and Jeddah.
Curtis noted the prevailing atmosphere of confidence and optimism during this year’s event, as exhibitors capitalised on opportunities to strengthen their anticipated sales pipelines for the final quarter of the year. Preparations for the 2027 edition of the Arab Travel Market are already underway, with eagerness to explore new opportunities, partnerships, and innovations upon participants’ return to Dubai in May.
Exploring Future Trends
The theme of this year’s Arab Travel Market was: “Travel 2040: Exploring New Horizons Through Innovation and Technology.” The discussions focused on the impact of artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart mobility, and evolving traveller expectations on the future of the tourism sector. The event featured more than 90 sessions across the Global Stage, Future Stage, and Experience Hub, alongside 28 live demonstrations in the technology and innovation centre.
This year’s edition also announced the updated identity of the Arab Travel Market, signifying the exhibition’s continued growth and transformation beyond traditional exhibition halls to become a year-round platform that connects various communities, ideas, and business opportunities within the global travel and tourism ecosystem.
With its 33rd edition, the Arab Travel Market continues to establish itself as the leading international event for travel and tourism in the Middle East, bringing together the global travel community to foster partnerships, exchange knowledge, and explore new business opportunities across the sector.