The Middle East’s aviation and cruise sectors are accelerating into a new phase of global growth, reinforcing the region’s position as a key international travel hub ahead of Arabian Travel Market 2026, set to take place from May 4 to 7 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
New data from a Travel Trends Report developed with Tourism Economics, an arm of Oxford Economics, projects Middle East air passenger demand to rise by 23 percent between 2025 and 2030. Growth is being driven by national tourism strategies, expanding airport capacity, and significant aircraft investments across Gulf carriers, which account for the majority of global unfilled aircraft orders.
According to Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director for the event, regional airlines now connect hundreds of destinations across six continents, strengthening tourism flows, trade links, and cross cultural exchange while positioning the Middle East among the world’s most connected aviation markets.
Industry leaders will examine these trends during conference sessions focused on fleet expansion, mobility innovation, and evolving travel economics, including discussions led by Euromonitor on shifting global travel conditions.
Cruise tourism is also expanding rapidly. The Cruise Lines International Association forecasts global cruise passenger volumes to reach 42 million by 2028, up from 34.6 million in 2024. Sector insights will feature contributions from organizations including Ayan Consulting, Celestyal Cruises, Inchcape Shipping Services, and TUI Cruises.
Expected to attract more than 55,000 professionals and 2,800 exhibitors from 166 countries, ATM 2026 will explore the industry’s future under the theme “Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology,” highlighting how innovation and connectivity are reshaping global travel.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
